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Animation Professor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Art Adjunct

Richmond, VA · On-site

$793 - $1.6K/wk

... lifetime learning, professors committed to excellence in teaching, and high-quality, easily ... Courses offered in the discipline include 2-D Design, 3-D Design, Animation, Ceramics, Foundations ...

Animation Professor information

See Virginia salary details

$57.5K

$113.8K

$187.4K

How much do animation professor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for animation professor in Virginia is $113,807.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,700.00 and $120,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Animation Professor do?

An Animation Professor teaches students the principles and techniques of animation, including 2D, 3D, stop-motion, and digital animation. They design curriculum, deliver lectures, guide projects, and provide mentorship to help students develop technical and creative skills. Additionally, they often conduct research, collaborate with industry professionals, and stay updated with emerging animation technologies and trends.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Animation Professor position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animation Professor, you need advanced expertise in animation principles, digital art, and storytelling, typically supported by a master's degree or higher in animation or a related field, along with teaching experience. Proficiency with industry-standard animation software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Maya, Blender, or Toon Boom, and possibly certification in these tools, is commonly required. Strong communication, mentorship abilities, and a passion for fostering creativity help educators connect with and inspire students. These skills are essential for preparing students for industry demands and maintaining an engaging, effective learning environment.

What are some typical responsibilities of an Animation Professor throughout the academic term?

Animation Professors are responsible for designing and delivering course content, leading classroom instruction, and evaluating student progress through projects, critiques, and exams. They often mentor students on portfolio development, oversee capstone projects or collaborative productions, and stay current with evolving animation technologies. Professors may also participate in departmental meetings, contribute to curriculum development, and work closely with industry professionals or alumni to facilitate internships and networking opportunities. Balancing teaching, advising, and creative research makes this role both dynamic and rewarding.

What are the most commonly searched types of Animation Professor jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Animation Professor jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Animation Professor jobs in Virginia? For Animation Professor jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Animation Professor jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Animation Professor job openings:
Infographic showing various Animation Professor job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 74% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,807 per year, or $54.7 per hour.
Instructor or Assistant Professor of Game Design

Instructor or Assistant Professor of Game Design

George Mason University

Fairfax, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 6 hours ago


George Mason University rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

123rd of 611 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Instructor or Assistant Professor of Game Design
  • 10003050
  • Fairfax, VA
  • Instructional Faculty
  • Opening on: Aug 29 2025
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Department: Col of Visual and Performing Arts

Classification: 9-month Instructional Faculty

Job Category: Instructional Faculty

Job Type: Full-Time

Work Schedule: N/A - I/R Faculty

Location: Fairfax, VA

Workplace Type: Hybrid Eligible

Salary: Salary commensurate with education and experience

Criminal Background Check: Yes

About the Department:

1. Offers undergraduate game design courses leading to a BFA in Computer Game Design;
2. Provides mentorship and guidance in game production to students pursuing majors and minors in Computer Game Design; and
3. Supports a cohesive faculty and staff to carry out objectives 1 and 2.

About the Position:

Teaches undergraduate Game Design, 3D Modeling, and Animation courses and helps develop this future track in the Computer Game Design Program. Pursues research (traditional or applied) and/or creative endeavors to contribute significantly to the field.

Responsibilities:

  • Teaches undergraduate Game Design, 3D Modeling, and Animation courses;
  • Helps develop this future track in the Computer Game Design Program; and
  • Pursues research (traditional or applied) and/or creative endeavors to contribute significantly to the field.

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in related field;
  • 5+ years experience in Game Design or related industry, or Master's degree in related field;
  • Experienced in all facets of 3D Modeling and Animation for game design and development, including technical, managerial and artistic advances; current research (traditional and applied); and industry developments;
  • Extensive experience working with all primary game design, production, and management software applications, engines, and tools, as well as related hardware;
  • Applicable experience (minimum of five years is desired) in the industry; and expertise using current professional game engines, editors and project management software;
  • Knowledgeable about all facets of 3D Modeling and Animation for game design and development, including technical, managerial and artistic advances; current research (traditional and applied); and industry developments;
  • Extensive knowledge working with all primary game design, game programming, and management software applications, engines, and tools, as well as related hardware;
  • Knowledge of 3D Modeling and animation software utilized in the industry;
  • Knowledge of workflow in multi-platform game production and publication;
  • Excellent interpersonal and presentation skills;
  • Proven critical thinking, problem-solving, and judgment skills;
  • Ability to successfully interact with the industry business and governmental communities;
  • Has a demonstrated commitment and ability to work collaboratively within a complex work environment; and
  • Possesses an approach that fosters a respectful, nonthreatening workplace environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master's degree in related field;
  • 5+ years experience in the Game Design industry and publication of major entertainment or serious games, or Terminal degree in Game related discipline; and
  • Demonstrated ability working with a diverse population of artists, students, faculty, staff, and community members.

Instructions to Applicants:

For full consideration, applicants must apply for Instructor or Assistant Professor of Game Design at https://jobs.gmu.edu/. Complete and submit the online application to include three professional references with contact information, and provide a Cover Letter/Letter of Intent with Resume for review.

Posting Open Date: August 29, 2025

For Full Consideration, Apply by: September 12, 2025

Open Until Filled: Yes


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