ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Animation Programmer Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

De Circle

Animation Engineer - EmptyVessel

Austin, TX · On-site +1

We are seeking 1-2 mid-level Animation Engineers with exceptional Unreal Engine 5 expertise to join our team in Europe. The ideal candidates will possess a strong background in animating within ...

SciPlay

Senior Technical Artist

Austin, TX

$125K - $150K/yr

Proficient in Unity animation systems and knowledge of event driven programming * Proficient in implementing art into Unity prefabs complete with animations and atlases * Excellent written and verbal ...

SciPlay

Senior Technical Artist

Austin, TX · On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Proficient in Unity animation systems and knowledge of event driven programming * Proficient in implementing art into Unity prefabs complete with animations and atlases * Excellent written and verbal ...

Computer Futures

Senior Android Developer

Austin, TX · On-site

$57.50 - $72.75/hr

... UIs, animations, and transitions). • You're a kind, pragmatic communicator with a working ... engineers when needed. • Your code elicits compliments from others and displays continuous ...

eFulgent

iOS Swift Developer

Austin, TX · On-site

$51.25 - $70.50/hr

We are currently working on an iOS Swift Developer requirement based in Austin, TX . This is a ... Core Animation * AVFoundation (as applicable) * Experience with app lifecycle management ...

Apptronik

Software Engineer - Human Motion Data

Austin, TX · On-site

$113K - $136K/yr

JOB SUMMARY As a Software Engineer- Human Motion Data, you will leverage your background in ... animation and gaming engines , to support humanoid robot development. * Implement and optimize ...

Apptronik

Software Engineer - Human Motion Data

Austin, TX · On-site

$113K - $136K/yr

... animation and gaming engines, to support humanoid robot development. • Implement and optimize ... Engineering, Computer Science, or a related highly technical field • 2+ years of industry or ...

Apptronik

Software Engineer - Human Motion Data

Austin, TX · On-site

$113K - $136K/yr

... animation and gaming engines, to support humanoid robot development. • Implement and optimize ... Engineering, Computer Science, or a related highly technical field. • 2+ years of industry or ...

Blind Squirrel Entertainment, Inc.

Combat Designer

Austin, TX · On-site

$153K/yr

... with engineering, art, and animation teams to ensure your designs are feasible and executed to the highest quality. • Prototype new combat mechanics and features in-engine. • Conduct playtests ...

Apptronik

Software Engineer - Human Motion Data

Austin, TX · On-site

$113K - $136K/yr

JOB SUMMARY As a Software Engineer- Human Motion Data, you will leverage your background in ... animation and gaming engines , to support humanoid robot development. * Implement and optimize ...

Cyberhill Partners

WordPress Developer

Austin, TX · On-site

The WordPress Developer will lead the design, development, maintenance, and optimization of ... of basic animation libraries or interactive web experiences • Experience supporting B2B ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAnimation Programmer JobsAnimation Programmer Jobs in Austin, TX

Animation Programmer information

See Austin, TX salary details

$11

$39

$68

How much do animation programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for animation programmer in Austin, TX is $39.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.48 and $51.01 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 Austin, TX? For Animation Programmer jobs in Austin, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animation Programmer jobs in Austin, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Animation Programmer jobs in Austin, TX are:
Animation Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animation Programmer job openings in Austin, TX as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,512 per year, or $39.2 per hour.

Animation Engineer - EmptyVessel

De Circle

Austin, TX • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Empty Vessel is an emerging game development studio focusing on immersive gaming experiences. With a commitment to crafting captivating narratives and engaging gameplay, we're dedicated to pushing the boundaries of interactive entertainment. As we expand our presence in Europe, we're seeking talented individuals to join our growing team and contribute to our exciting projects.
Position Overview:
We are seeking 1-2 mid-level Animation Engineers with exceptional Unreal Engine 5 expertise to join our team in Europe. The ideal candidates will possess a strong background in animating within Unreal Engine, with a focus on creating immersive experiences for players. Candidates should have experience with animation systems, interaction with environments, and troubleshooting technical issues.
Responsibilities:
  • Develop and maintain an animation system within Unreal Engine, facilitating player interaction with environments.
  • Ensure seamless interaction between characters and environments, optimizing performance and visual fidelity.
  • Collaborate closely with animation creators to implement animations effectively within the game environment.
  • Troubleshoot and debug game crashes, utilizing knowledge of C++ and Unreal Engine to identify and resolve issues promptly.
  • Utilize Autodesk Maya for keyframe animation and animation techniques, implementing key poses to enhance character movement.
  • Work within Visual Studio IDE to write and optimize code, ensuring smooth integration with the game engine.

  • Strong proficiency in Unreal Engine 5, with experience developing and implementing animation systems.
  • Experience with Autodesk Maya for keyframe animation and animation techniques.
  • Proficiency in C++ and familiarity with Visual Studio IDE.
  • Prior experience with shipping a shooter game, preferably an AAA title, demonstrating a deep understanding of large, complex game development processes.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot and debug technical issues efficiently.
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work closely with animation creators and other team members.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment, with a commitment to meeting project deadlines and delivering high-quality work.

Apply