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Animation Programmer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Hitachi

Simulation Engineer

Holland, MI · On-site +1

Provide high quality realistic imaging and 3D animation videos for marketing. Note: This list of ... Programming experience is preferred. * Strong mechanical aptitude with a focus on safety and ...

Hitachi, Ltd.

Simulation Engineer

Lake Orion, MI · On-site

Provide high quality realistic imaging and 3D animation videos for marketing. Note: This list of ... Programming experience is preferred. * Strong mechanical aptitude with a focus on safety and ...

Hitachi

Simulation Engineer

Holland, MI · On-site +1

Provide high quality realistic imaging and 3D animation videos for marketing. Note: This list of ... Programming experience is preferred. * Strong mechanical aptitude with a focus on safety and ...

Hitachi

Simulation Engineer

Lake Orion, MI · On-site +1

Provide high quality realistic imaging and 3D animation videos for marketing. Note: This list of ... Programming experience is preferred. * Strong mechanical aptitude with a focus on safety and ...

Hitachi, Ltd.

Simulation Engineer

Holland, MI · On-site

Provide high quality realistic imaging and 3D animation videos for marketing. Note: This list of ... Programming experience is preferred. * Strong mechanical aptitude with a focus on safety and ...

Hitachi

Simulation Engineer

Lake Orion, MI · On-site +1

Provide high quality realistic imaging and 3D animation videos for marketing. Note: This list of ... Programming experience is preferred. * Strong mechanical aptitude with a focus on safety and ...

Hitachi

Simulation Engineer

Holland, MI · On-site +1

Provide high quality realistic imaging and 3D animation videos for marketing. Note: This list of ... Programming experience is preferred. * Strong mechanical aptitude with a focus on safety and ...

Hitachi, Ltd.

Simulation Engineer

Holland, MI · On-site

Provide high quality realistic imaging and 3D animation videos for marketing. Note: This list of ... Programming experience is preferred. * Strong mechanical aptitude with a focus on safety and ...

EDAG, Inc.

CAE Intern

Troy, MI · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

Who we are: EDAG Inc. is a globally leading, independent engineering services provider that ... works, Oasys Suite, and Animator. * Introduction to linear, non-linear optimization ...

General Motors

Branded UI Visual Designer

Warren, MI · On-site +1

You will work with designers, researchers, engineers, and cross-functional partners to create clear ... Contribute to prototypes, storyboards, animations, and presentations that communicate visual design ...

General Motors

Branded UI Visual Designer

Warren, MI · On-site

You will work with designers, researchers, engineers, and cross-functional partners to create clear ... Contribute to prototypes, storyboards, animations, and presentations that communicate visual design ...

General Motors

Senior Designer - In Vehicle

Warren, MI · On-site +1

$95K - $102K/yr

... animations, and prototypes to clearly communicate design intent * Release production specifications and assets to software engineering teams * Present design work to peers, partners, and leadership

General Motors

Senior Designer - In Vehicle

Warren, MI · On-site

$95K - $102K/yr

... animations, and prototypes to clearly communicate design intent * Release production specifications and assets to software engineering teams * Present design work to peers, partners, and leadership

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All JobsAnimation Programmer JobsAnimation Programmer Jobs in Michigan

Animation Programmer information

See Michigan salary details

$10

$34

$59

How much do animation programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for animation programmer in Michigan is $34.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.40 and $44.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Animation Programmer vs 3D Animator?

AspectAnimation Programmer3D Animator
Required SkillsProgramming, scripting, technical knowledge of animation pipelinesArtistic skills, character animation, storytelling
Work EnvironmentGame studios, software companies, technical teamsGame studios, film, advertising, freelance
Tools & SoftwareUnity, Unreal Engine, scripting languagesMaya, Blender, 3ds Max
FocusImplementing animation systems, optimizing performanceCreating and refining character animations

While both roles involve animation, an Animation Programmer focuses on coding and technical implementation of animations within software, whereas a 3D Animator emphasizes creating artistic character movements. Understanding these differences helps employers and professionals identify the right skill set for each role.

How do Animation Programmers typically collaborate with animators and game designers during a project?

Animation Programmers work closely with animators to ensure that character movements and environmental animations are seamlessly integrated into the game engine. They often participate in regular meetings with animators and designers to discuss technical constraints, workflow improvements, and creative solutions for complex animation systems. This collaboration ensures that artistic vision aligns with technical feasibility, resulting in smooth, responsive animations. Effective communication and an understanding of both creative and technical perspectives are essential for success in this role.

What is the highest paid animation job?

The highest paid animation jobs typically include lead or senior roles such as Animation Director, VFX Supervisor, or Creative Director, often earning six-figure salaries. These positions require extensive experience, strong leadership skills, and proficiency with industry-standard tools like Maya or Houdini.

What does an animation programmer do?

An animation programmer develops and implements the code that brings character and object animations to life in video games and multimedia projects. They work with animation tools, game engines, and scripting languages to ensure smooth, realistic movement and interactions, often collaborating with artists and designers. Proficiency in programming languages like C++ or Python and understanding of animation principles are essential for this role.

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

To thrive as an Animation Programmer, you need strong programming skills in languages like C++ or Python, a solid understanding of mathematics (especially linear algebra), and experience with animation systems in game engines. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as Unreal Engine, Unity, and Autodesk Maya, as well as relevant APIs and scripting languages, is typically required. Creativity, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills for this role. These skills ensure the creation of smooth, realistic animations and seamless integration with gameplay, which are vital for engaging and immersive user experiences.

What are animation programmers?

Animation programmers are software developers who specialize in creating and implementing animation systems within video games or interactive media. They work closely with animators and designers to ensure that character and object movements are smooth, realistic, and responsive. Their responsibilities often include building tools for animators, optimizing animation performance, and integrating animations with game mechanics. Animation programmers use programming languages like C++ or C# and often work with game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine.

Are animators still in demand?

Animation programmers are still in demand as the entertainment, gaming, and virtual reality industries continue to grow, requiring skilled professionals to develop and implement animated content. Proficiency in programming languages like C++ and tools such as Maya or Unity enhances job prospects in this field.
What are popular job titles related to Animation Programmer jobs in Michigan? For Animation Programmer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animation Programmer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Animation Programmer jobs in Michigan are:
Animation Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animation Programmer job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 28% Contract. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,675 per year, or $34.5 per hour.
Simulation Engineer

Simulation Engineer

Hitachi

Holland, MI • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Location:

Holland, Michigan, United States

Job ID:

R0098659

Date Posted:

2025-07-14

Company Name:

J.R. AUTOMATION TECHNOLOGIES, LLC

Profession (Job Category):

Engineering & Science

Job Schedule:

Full time

Remote:

No

Job Description:

The Opportunity:

JR Automation, a Hitachi Group Company, is driven to deliver customer success worldwide. We provide intelligent automated manufacturing and distribution technology solutions that transform how the world's leading manufacturers make and distribute products. Our strength is our people and we're always looking to get stronger across North America, Europe, and Asia.

Join us as a Simulation Engineer in Holland, MI or Lake Orion, MI as we work together to bring innovative automation solutions to life.

Location Type: This role can be located at our headquarters in Holland, MI or our facility in Lake Orion, MI.

How You'll Make an Impact:

  • Work with customers, sales, and engineering teams to develop solutions requiring simulations.

  • Work with the Application Engineers if simulations are needed in proposals.

  • Balance project priority and cross-business unit work.

  • Initiate, facilitate and cultivate external relationships and partnerships.

  • Build processes and retain relationships to share simulation capabilities, processes and knowledge across all JR Automation companies and business units.

  • Adhere to JR Automation and Simulation Engineering standards and processes.

  • Maintain the quality, respectability, and professionalism that JR Automation requires.

Simulation Capabilities:

  • Perform robotic reach & cycle time studies.

  • Perform system throughput studies.

  • Work with the design teams to validate tooling, layout, and robot selection.

  • Provide engineering teams with robot paths, OLPs and data.

  • Produce simulation videos and images.

  • Professionally present the simulation and findings to the team and customer.

Additional Opportunities:

  • Develop simulations for virtual commissioning, including digital twins.

  • Develop advanced simulation tools.

  • Develop simulation standards, processes, models, and scripts/control.

  • Provide high quality realistic imaging and 3D animation videos for marketing.

Note: This list of responsibilities is by no means inclusive; however, it is intended to be a guideline for activities.

What You'll Bring:

  • Minimum 3+ years of direct experience with robotics, preferably within the industrial automation or comparable industry.

  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial, or Software engineering preferred.

  • Experience with robotic and/or discrete simulation software preferred, software such as:
    o RobotStudio
    o RoboGuide
    o Visual Components
    o Emulate3D
    o Process Simulate
    o Plant Simulate

  • Industrial robotic automated work cell design experience.

  • Ability to experiment while reviewing concepts, think out-of-the-box, and providing solutions.

  • Strong logical and critical thinking. Programming experience is preferred.

  • Strong mechanical aptitude with a focus on safety and quality.

  • Time management skills and the ability to manage multiple projects/initiatives with varying priorities.

  • Some travel required and willingness to commit to extended travel periods for project-based work, training, sales events, and conferences. Some international traveling could be required.

Disclaimer: JR Automation requires candidates to successfully complete a 10-panel drug screen, physical examination, and background check.

Company Overview:

At JR Automation, A Hitachi Group Company, we discover potential, reimagine limits, and advance industry. When faced with a problem, we find a solution. Together, we push what's possible to automate for tomorrow.

Join our team of 2,000+ at one of our 20+ facilities around the world and be a part of the most experienced team of advanced automation integrators.

Fueled by Possible.

Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE)-Females/Minorities/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

If you need a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job at JR Automation, please send the nature of request and contact information to jrcareers@jrautomation.com. Queries other than accommodation requests will not be responded to.

Hitachi Vantara logo

About Hitachi Vantara

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Hitachi Rail is a fully integrated, global provider of rail solutions across rolling stock, signaling, service & maintenance, digital technology and turnkey. With a presence in 38 countries across three continents and over 13,000 employees, our mission is to contribute to society through the continuous development of superior rail transport solutions.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

2017

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