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Animation Industry Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ember Lab

Senior Gameplay Animator

Orange, CA · On-site

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 ...

Montgomery College

MD · On-site

Bring real-world industry experience into the classroom, sharing insights, case studies, and practical applications. Required Qualifications: * Master's degree in Animation or related field.

Ember Lab

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 ...

Ember Lab

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 ...

ZAGG, Inc.

Senior 3D Animator

Midvale, UT · On-site

$100K - $114K/yr

From cutting-edge portable power to industry-leading screen protection and durable phone cases, our ... What You'll Bring * 7+ years of professional 3D animation experience, ideally in product ...

ZAGG Inc

Senior 3D Animator

Midvale, UT

$100K - $114K/yr

From cutting-edge portable power to industry-leading screen protection and durable phone cases, our ... What You'll Bring * 7+ years of professional 3D animation experience, ideally in product ...

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Animation Industry information

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How much do animation industry jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for animation industry in the United States is $39.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.88 and $63.94 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, and why are they important?

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.

Is animator a high paying job?

Animators can earn competitive salaries, especially with experience, specialized skills, and proficiency in industry-standard software like Maya or Adobe After Effects. Entry-level positions typically pay less, but experienced animators working in film, gaming, or advertising can earn higher wages. Salary levels also depend on geographic location and the complexity of projects handled.

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 are the career opportunities in animation?

The animation industry offers careers such as character animator, storyboard artist, 3D modeler, visual effects artist, and animation director. These roles typically require skills in software like Maya, Blender, or Adobe After Effects, along with a strong portfolio and understanding of storytelling and design principles.

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 often involve working in studios or remotely on projects like films, TV shows, and video games.

What are three fields in the animation industry?

The animation industry includes fields such as 2D animation, 3D animation, and visual effects (VFX). Professionals in these areas use specialized software like Adobe Animate, Maya, or Blender and often require skills in storytelling, design, and technical proficiency. These fields are essential for creating animated films, video games, commercials, and digital media.
More about Animation Industry jobs
What cities are hiring for Animation Industry jobs? Cities with the most Animation Industry job openings:
What states have the most Animation Industry jobs? States with the most job openings for Animation Industry jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Animation Industry jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Animation Industry jobs are:
Animation Industry jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animation Industry job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Part Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,974 per year, or $39.4 per hour.
Senior Gameplay Animator

Senior Gameplay Animator

Ember Lab

Orange, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Salary: $88K-$120K

At Ember Lab, our goal is to create powerful, transformative experiences that impact people for a lifetime. Having released our debut game, Kena: Bridge of Spirits, in 2021 this journey is just beginning. Were looking for collaborative team members who share our passion for storytelling and are eager to help us shape the future of Ember Lab.


We believe a strong, collaborative environment is critical to creating memorable experiences. As a Senior Gameplay Animator, you will conceptualize, design, develop and execute 3D animations. You will collaborate across teams to bring these animations and Ember Lab work to life!


Description

  • Create, test, and iterate on gameplay animations related to combat and interactive events
  • Integrate animations into game project and relevant animation systems
  • Collaborate with the design and engineering teams to ensure animations align with gameplay mechanics and technical constraints.
  • Iterate and refine animations based on feedback from team members and playtesting.
  • Attend to bugs related to tasks and maintain relevant animation features
  • 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 animations.


Requirements

  • 5+ years of gameplay animation experience
  • Strong skills in animating body mechanics and action
  • Excellent Maya animation skills
  • Proficient with animation systems in UE5
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Strong time management skills and ability to meet deadlines
  • Shipped 1+ title
  • Unreal Engine 4 or 5 experience


Location

  • In Office


To Apply

  • Please include a portfolio


Compensation Range

The standard annual base salary range for this role in the U.S. is $88,000 - $120,000 USD. Actual pay will vary depending on experience, qualifications, performance and location. The base salary range for locations outside of the U.S. will be adjusted according to location.


At Ember Lab, we like to keep things professional and straightforward when it comes to hiring. All of our recruitment happens through official channels like an Ember Lab email, our recruitment platform BambooHR, or LinkedIn.


If you ever get a message from someone claiming to be us through an unexpected or suspicious platform, its probably not legitfeel free to ignore it or give us a heads-up at contact@emberlab.com.


Weve got your back when it comes to keeping the process safe and secure!