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Animation Modeler Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Magnopus

Machine Learning Engineer II

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Familiarity with generative AI (e.g., text, image, audio, or animation models) * Background in game development or creative tooling * Experience optimizing models for performance on constrained ...

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All JobsAnimation Modeler JobsAnimation Modeler Jobs in California

Animation Modeler information

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$21

$39

$75

How much do animation modeler jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for animation modeler in California is $39.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.82 and $42.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Animation Modeler, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animation Modeler, you need strong artistic skills, a solid understanding of anatomy and form, and proficiency in 3D modeling principles, typically supported by a relevant degree or portfolio. Expertise with industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, ZBrush, or Blender, and knowledge of texturing and rendering tools are commonly required. Creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are essential for creating high-quality, lifelike models that meet the creative vision and technical needs of animation projects.

How does an Animation Modeler typically collaborate with other departments during the production process?

Animation Modelers work closely with concept artists, riggers, and animators to ensure that 3D models meet both visual and technical requirements. They often attend regular meetings with these teams to discuss feedback, adjust models for animation needs, and troubleshoot any issues that arise during the rigging or animation stages. Effective communication and adaptability are key, as changes to character or environment designs can occur based on evolving creative direction. This collaborative workflow helps maintain consistency and efficiency throughout the animation pipeline.

What are Animation Modelers?

Animation Modelers are artists who create 3D models of characters, environments, and objects for use in animated films, television shows, video games, and other digital media. They use specialized software to sculpt, texture, and detail models so they can be animated by other members of the production team. Their work is essential for bringing stories and concepts to life in a visually compelling and realistic way. Animation Modelers often collaborate closely with animators, riggers, and directors to ensure their models meet the creative and technical needs of the project.

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

AspectAnimation Modeler3D Modeler
Primary FocusCreating animated 3D models and rigging for movementDesigning static 3D models and assets
Skills & ToolsAnimation software (Maya, Blender), rigging, keyframingModeling software (3ds Max, Maya), texturing, sculpting
Work EnvironmentAnimation studios, game development, film productionGame studios, VFX companies, product visualization
Common UsageUsed when models require movement and animationUsed for creating detailed static models and assets

While both roles involve 3D modeling, Animation Modelers specialize in creating models that are rigged and animated, focusing on movement and performance. 3D Modelers primarily craft detailed static models used in various media. The two roles often collaborate but serve distinct purposes in the production pipeline.

What are popular job titles related to Animation Modeler jobs in California? For Animation Modeler jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animation Modeler jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Animation Modeler jobs in California are:
Animation Modeler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animation Modeler job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,797 per year, or $39.8 per hour.
Story Artist - Feature

Story Artist - Feature

Sony Pictures Animation

Los Angeles, CA

$51.65 - $77/hr

Other

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

SUMMARY:  

Story Artists work with a team of the Directors, Producers, and Head of Story to create a visual representation of the animation's narrative.  These artists translate the script into pictures by producing a series of panels of drawings that plan out the film's story, action, humor, continuity and pacing. 

Sony Pictures Animation is a pre-production animation studio based in Los Angeles, California, creating both feature animation and animated series with artists from around the world. We pride ourselves on empowering filmmakers to lead the creative process, and allowing the hand of the artist to be truly felt, with the goal of producing bold and innovative visual storytelling.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Working from a script or descriptions, develop storyboards (thumbnail/rough storyboard panels)  that depict the action, camera placement and acting of sequences.
  • Draw everything from quick sketches to finished detailed storyboard panels.
  • Pitch storyboards to the director, head of story, crew, and executives.
  • Discover and create innovative ideas with performance, action, and humor.
  • Draw storyboards for assigned sequences and revise, edit, and modify sketches as many times as needed.
  • Ensure that the vision and style of the show is consistently adhered to through execution of action, staging, dialogue and camera.
  • Address story and structure problems. We especially value artists that can improve entertainment value!.
  • Supervision of the story team, including conducting interviews, making hiring recommendations, and providing feedback to Artists throughout the production.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Robust draftsmanship with a sense of design, appeal and composition.
  • Ability to work on a range of projects (action, comedy and drama sequences) and in a variety of styles from comic to realistic and highly stylized.
  • Great writing skills.
  • Strong character acting sensibilities; able to convey personality, emotion, and movement.
  • Strong staging, composition and cinematography skills.
  • Capable of drawing characters and environments on model within show style.
  • Ability to write clear and specific directions on storyboards to communicate with the team.
  • Can manage time efficiently and work independently. 
  • Work creatively in a fast paced production environment.
  • Must be open to direction and able to embrace change.
  • Self motivated, good interpersonal skills, and an excellent teammate with a phenomenal outlook.
  • Knowledge of software and hardware including Cintiq, Toon Boom Storyboard Pro and Photoshop.

The anticipated base salary for this position is $51.65/hour to $77/hour. This role qualifies for benefits pursuant to the collective bargaining agreement. The actual salary offered will depend on a variety of factors.

To apply, please submit a resume and a link to your work.  Please make sure to include any passwords needed to review your work in your resume or cover letter.

Sony Pictures Animation is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other protected characteristics.

SPE will consider qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records in accordance with applicable law.

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