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Animation Industry Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Animation Director

Burbank, CA · On-site

$3.2K - $3.4K/wk

Proficiency with industry-standard animation software and production tools such as Adobe Animate, Toon Boom Harmony, Autodesk Maya, SyncSketch, and ShotGrid. * Experience providing animation ...

Software Engineer 2

San Jose, CA · Remote

$114K - $156K/yr

Production/test experience in the Gaming/Animation industry * Experience with animation authoring tools (Flash/Animate) or ACE certification * Prior experience troubleshooting complex web/media ...

DevOps Engineer 3

San Jose, CA · On-site

$61.97 - $77.46/hr

Production/test experience in the gaming or animation industry * Experience with animation authoring tools (Flash/Animate) or ACE certification * Familiarity with CircleCI or other CI tools Pay Range ...

Sr Manager, TV Animation

El Segundo, CA

$112K - $128K/yr

... industry partners. * Identify emerging creative talent, new storytelling opportunities, and ... Monitor trends in animation, streaming, comedy, digital media, and audience behavior to inform ...

Sr Manager, TV Animation

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$112K - $128K/yr

... industry partners. * Identify emerging creative talent, new storytelling opportunities, and ... Monitor trends in animation, streaming, comedy, digital media, and audience behavior to inform ...

... industry partners. * Identify emerging creative talent, new storytelling opportunities, and ... Monitor trends in animation, streaming, comedy, digital media, and audience behavior to inform ...

Sr Manager, TV Animation

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$112K - $128K/yr

... industry partners. * Identify emerging creative talent, new storytelling opportunities, and ... Monitor trends in animation, streaming, comedy, digital media, and audience behavior to inform ...

Contribute to the development of animation workflows and tools to streamline the animation process. * Stay up-to-date with industry trends and techniques to continually improve the quality of ...

Senior Gameplay Animator

Orange, CA · On-site

$88K - $120K/yr

Contribute to the development of animation workflows and tools to streamline the animation process. * Stay up-to-date with industry trends and techniques to continually improve the quality of ...

Senior Gameplay Animator

Orange, CA · On-site

$88K - $120K/yr

Contribute to the development of animation workflows and tools to streamline the animation process. * Stay up-to-date with industry trends and techniques to continually improve the quality of ...

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Showing results 1-20

Animation Industry information

See California salary details

$10

$38

$69

How much do animation industry jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for animation industry in California is $38.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.59 and $63.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the animation industry?

The animation industry encompasses the creation of moving images using various techniques such as hand-drawn art, computer-generated imagery (CGI), and stop-motion. It includes the production of animated films, television shows, video games, advertisements, and online content. Professionals in this industry work in roles like animators, storyboard artists, directors, and visual effects specialists. The animation industry is known for its creativity, technical innovation, and its significant influence on entertainment and media worldwide.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the animation industry?

To thrive in the animation industry, you need strong artistic ability, an understanding of animation principles, and proficiency in visual storytelling, often supported by a degree in animation or a related field. Familiarity with software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Autodesk Maya, Blender, or Toon Boom, and a solid demo reel or portfolio are typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, collaboration, and effective communication are essential soft skills for standing out in this field. These competencies ensure high-quality, engaging animations and seamless teamwork in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

What are some common challenges animators face when working on large team projects in the animation industry?

One common challenge animators encounter in large team projects is maintaining consistent visual style and quality across different sequences and scenes. Communication is key, as animators must frequently coordinate with directors, storyboard artists, and other team members to ensure their work aligns with the project’s creative vision. Tight production schedules can add pressure, requiring adaptability and efficient time management. Additionally, animators often need to be open to feedback and revisions, which are essential for producing polished final animations.

What is the difference between Animation Industry vs 3D Modeler?

AspectAnimation Industry3D Modeler
Required SkillsAnimation principles, storytelling, software proficiency (e.g., Maya, Blender)Modeling techniques, texturing, software proficiency (e.g., Maya, 3ds Max)
Work EnvironmentStudios, post-production houses, freelance projectsDesign studios, gaming companies, film production
Industry UsageCreating animated content, character animation, visual effectsBuilding 3D assets, character modeling, environment creation

While both roles require proficiency in 3D software and creative skills, animation industry professionals focus on bringing characters and scenes to life through movement and storytelling, whereas 3D modelers specialize in creating detailed 3D assets used in animations, games, and films. Both roles often collaborate but serve different functions within the production pipeline.

What jobs are in the animation industry?

The animation industry offers roles such as character animator, storyboard artist, 3D modeler, visual effects artist, and animation director. These jobs typically require skills in software like Maya, Blender, or Adobe After Effects and may involve working in studios or remotely on projects like films, TV shows, or video games.

What jobs can I get in animation industry?

The animation industry offers roles such as animator, character designer, storyboard artist, 3D modeler, visual effects artist, and animation director. These positions typically require skills in software like Adobe Creative Suite, Maya, or Blender, and often involve working in studios or freelance environments. Entry-level roles may include assistant or junior positions, with advancement requiring a strong portfolio and experience.

What are popular job titles related to Animation Industry jobs in California?

For Animation Industry jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Animation Industry jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Animation Industry jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Animation Industry jobs?

Cities in California with the most Animation Industry job openings:

Infographic showing various Animation Industry job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,900 per year, or $38.9 per hour.

VP, Content Strategy - WB Animation

Warner Media, LLC.

Burbank, CA • On-site

$161 - $299/hr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Your New Role

The VP, Content Strategy for WB Animation develops and implements content licensing strategies for original productions, builds strategic third‑party platform relationships to support project monetization, and identifies and capitalizes on new content opportunities.

Your Role Accountabilities
  • Creates content strategy plans, while also working closely with business operations to implement business strategies and builds alignment with the development and creative teams to implement designated strategies.
  • Identifies licensing opportunities in the domestic marketplace for both new and returning series; negotiates key topline licensing terms with external platforms; develops and maintains relationships with external network/platform partners.
  • Identifies first‑window international licensing opportunities, as needed, for new series.
  • Coordinates with the WBTV distribution team to find collaborative opportunities for original productions to amplify library deals.
  • Oversees internal and external presentations regarding content currently in production or development.
  • Acts as liaison between the WB Animation departments—Production, Business & Legal Affairs, etc.—to streamline the flow of information.
  • Develops and maintains relationships with various other Warner Bros. Discovery divisions—Cartoon Network, Consumer Products, DC Comics, etc.—regarding WB Animation series.
  • Identifies properties (library, original, third‑party, etc.) to develop for animated series, shorts, videos, and online content for the family demographic.
  • Maintains a leadership role in all global initiatives, including the APAC Animation Committee and development opportunities in Korea, LatAm, and other distinct international markets.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.
Qualifications & Experience Work Experience
  • 10+ years of experience in animation licensing and/or development and production required.
  • Experience working with Network Executives and Creative Management required.
  • Experience negotiating licensing terms.
  • Complete mastery of the animation development process a must.
  • Experience effectively supervising all aspects of current series production.
  • Experience working with overseas studios and networks on development and production, specifically in Asia and/or Europe required.
Education, Professional Training, Technical Training or Certification
  • Bachelor’s degree in a related field preferred.
Knowledge/Skills
  • Strong knowledge of animation production process and industry marketplace.
  • Knowledge of product licensing, territorial rights and windowing strategy.
  • Strong reputation and extensive contact within the television animation industry.
  • Knowledge of children’s television network standards and practices.
  • Ability to track and maintain assets and various information.
  • Ability to interact knowledgeably and effectively with other divisions providing or exploiting rights ancillary to animated productions.
  • Proven ability to pitch projects (including supervising pitches by artistic talent) and prepare and present information about projects.
Other Requirements
  • Must be able to review and comprehend detailed documents.
  • Must be detail‑oriented.
  • Must be able to handle confidential information.
  • Must be able to solve problems within scope of responsibility.
  • Must have strong oral and written communication skills.
  • Must be extremely organized.
  • Must be able to handle multiple tasks.

Management has the right to add or change duties and job requirements at any time.

Compensation & Benefits

In compliance with local law, we are disclosing the compensation, or a range thereof, for roles in locations where legally required. Actual salaries will vary based on several factors, including but not limited to external market data, internal equity, location, skill set, experience, and/or performance. Base pay is just one component of Warner Bros. Discovery’s total compensation package for employees. Pay Range: $161,000.00 - $299,000.00 salary per year. Other rewards may include annual bonuses, short‑ and long‑term incentives, and program‑specific awards. In addition, Warner Bros. Discovery provides a variety of benefits to employees, including health insurance coverage, an employee wellness program, life and disability insurance, a retirement savings plan, paid holidays and sick time and vacation.

Championing Inclusion at WBD

Warner Bros. Discovery embraces the opportunity to build a workforce that reflects a wide array of perspectives, backgrounds and experiences. As an equal‑opportunity employer, we consider qualified candidates on the basis of merit, without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, mental or physical disability, genetic information, marital status, citizenship status, military status, protected veteran status or any other category protected by law.

Disability Accommodations

If you’re a qualified candidate with a disability and you require adjustments or accommodations during the job application and/or recruitment process, please visit our accessibility page for instructions to submit your request.

Fair Chance

If you’re a qualified candidate with an arrest or conviction record, please know that your application will be considered in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.

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