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Animation Programmer Jobs in Toronto, ON (NOW HIRING)

Velan Studios

Gameplay Animator (Senior+/Lead)

Toronto, ON · On-site

CA$110K - CA$150K/yr

Collaborate with designers and engineers to explore new ideas, solve tricky gameplay challenges, and push what's possible through animation. * Document tools and workflows. * Mentor other animators ...

Apply Early

DEPT

Creative Developer

Toronto, ON · Remote

Creative Developer Toronto, remote DEPT is a Growth Invention company built to help the world ... Someone who can take exceptional visual design and bring it to life through animation, storytelling ...

DEPT

Creative UI Developer

Toronto, ON · Remote

Creative UI Developer Toronto, remote DEPT is a Growth Invention company built to help the world ... Create fluid scripted animations and interactions that enhance usability and user experience

TOPOLIO

Software Engineer, CTO

Toronto, ON

... with Core Animation Post-secondary degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering or equivalent academic/professional experience required * Github experience Preferably living in or near the ...

TOPOLIO

Software Engineer, CTO (Remote)

Toronto, ON · Remote

Good eye for design and detail, passion for software architecture & innovation, and experience with Core Animation * Post-secondary degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering or equivalent ...

Autodesk

Senior Frontend Developer (3D)

Toronto, ON · On-site +1

You will work closely with Engineering and UX Research teams to move from concepts and designs to ... Strong understanding of animation principles (easing, timing, physics-based motion) and experience ...

GPL Technologies

Cloud Engineer

Toronto, ON · On-site

Cloud Engineer - Media & Entertainmen Workflows At GPL Technologies, our mission is to provide ... nature of animation, inspiration, and storytelling in a simple expression: "Art challenges ...

Scotiabank

Software Developer

Toronto, ON · Hybrid

Full Stack developer with 4+ years of progressive experience working in the IT industry in a ... Deep knowledge of HTML / CSS / SASS (BEM, OOCSS, SMACSS, CSS3 Animations, Semantic HTML)

Sago Mini

Senior Unity Game Developer

Toronto, ON · On-site

As a Senior Unity Game Developer you will work within a cross-functional team of talented developers, artists, animators, and play designers to create beautiful 2D and 3D mobile apps for children.

Apply Early

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All JobsAnimation Programmer JobsAnimation Programmer Jobs in Toronto, ON

Animation Programmer information

See Toronto, ON salary details

$31.5K

$94K

$168K

How much do animation programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for animation programmer in Toronto, ON is $93,954.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,940.00 and $119,769.00 per year, 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.

Is animation a high paying job?

Animation programmers typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, but experienced professionals working on major projects or with specialized skills can earn high wages, especially in larger studios or with advanced knowledge of programming languages and animation tools.

Are animators in demand right now?

Animation programmers are currently in demand due to growth in the gaming, film, and virtual reality industries, which require skilled professionals to develop and implement animated content. Strong programming skills in languages like C++ and experience with animation tools such as Maya or Blender can improve job prospects in this field.

What is an animation programmer?

An animation programmer is a software developer who creates and implements the code that brings character and object animations to life in video games, films, or interactive media. They work closely with artists and designers, often using programming languages like C++ or scripting tools within game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine to ensure smooth, realistic motion and performance. Strong programming skills, understanding of physics, and knowledge 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.

Does Disney hire 2D animators?

Disney hires 2D animators for traditional animation roles, especially for projects that require hand-drawn animation skills. Candidates typically need a strong portfolio, proficiency in animation software like Toon Boom or Adobe Animate, and relevant experience. However, Disney has shifted focus toward 3D animation, so opportunities for 2D animators may be more limited compared to 3D roles.
What are popular job titles related to Animation Programmer jobs in Toronto, ON? For Animation Programmer jobs in Toronto, ON, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animation Programmer jobs in Toronto, ON look for? The top searched job categories for Animation Programmer jobs in Toronto, ON are:
Animation Programmer jobs near you

Senior Gameplay Animator [Splinter Cell]

Ubisoft

Toronto, ON

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Be an early applicant

Key responsibilities

  • Create third-person animations for the Player Character and Non-Player Characters that follow the visual language defined by the Animation Director and respect game design constraints.

  • Process, enhance, and fine-tune motion capture data and produce high-quality keyframe animations as needed.

  • Export, integrate, test, review, and iterate on animation systems in collaboration with technical and design team members.

Job description

Company Description

Ubisoft is a global leader in gaming with teams across the world creating original and memorable gaming experiences, from Assassin’s Creed, Rainbow Six to Just Dance and more. We believe diverse perspectives help both players and teams thrive. If you’re passionate about innovation and pushing entertainment boundaries, join our journey and help us create the unknown!

Job Description

As a Senior Gameplay Animator on Splinter Cell at Ubisoft Toronto, you will be responsible for creating animations and animation systems for the Player Character and Non-Player Characters (NPC) in Third Person view.

What you'll do:

  • Create Third-person animations that follow the visual language defined by the Animation Director and respect game design constraints.
  • Process and enhance motion capture data, which is used as a general foundation for our animation systems.
  • Produce high-quality animations using keyframe animation as needed.
  • Create Player and NPC animation solutions for basic locomotion, 3D navigation, combat behaviours, and scripted game moments.
  • Fine-tune animation data with a high level of precision, as required by the game engine, with strong attention to detail.
  • Export and integrate animations according to technical guidelines, in collaboration with the Technical Director or Technical Animator, as well as designers and programmers.
  • Test, review, and iterate on animation systems directly in-game.
  • Work closely with fellow animators, the Animation Director, programmers, and designers to deliver features on time and at the expected quality level.
  • Take ownership of the final quality of animated features delivered in the game.
Qualifications
  • Strong experience creating gameplay animations for video games.
  • Proven experience in 3C animation and third-person animation systems.
  • Strong expertise in motion capture data processing.
  • A sharp eye for visual quality and detail.
  • An open and collaborative mindset, with the ability to find compromises when solving complex problems.
  • Motivation and pride in delivering high-quality work.
  • Flexibility and resilience when adapting to production changes.
  • A passion for teamwork and sharing ideas in a creative environment.
  • Solid understanding of technical constraints related to game engine integration.
  • Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team while aligning with artistic and technical visions.
  • Familiarity with MotionBuilder is a plus.
  • Experience working on a shipped AAA title is an asset.

What to send our way

  • A portfolio showcasing your best animation work.
  • Your CV, highlighting your experience, skills, and professional background.

Additional Information

This job posting is for an existing vacancy and is not intended to build a candidate pool for future opportunities.

We do not use artificial intelligence to screen or filter applications. AI may be used solely to assist with the transcription of interview notes.

The annual base salary range for this full-time position is $85,000 to $120,000 CAD. The final base salary will be determined following the interview process and will take into account the candidate’s experience, skills, scope of responsibilities, and qualifications, to ensure fair and equitable compensation.