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Animation Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$178.11 - $315.80/hr

Work closely with the Animation, Design, and Engineering departments to analyze, troubleshoot, and solve in-game animation implementation issues and animation-related technical challenges * Closely ...

New

Senior Technical Designer in Animation

Cary, NC · On-site

$98K - $112K/yr

Work closely with the Animation, Design, and Engineering departments to analyze, troubleshoot, and solve in-game animation implementation issues and animation-related technical challenges * Closely ...

It's a difficult problem that requires brilliant people and tremendous effort over time. Level is looking for a Senior Software Engineer - Animation. You'll build the systems that make characters ...

New

You will act as a bridge between animation and engineering - helping to define workflows, shape systems, and solve complex problems at the intersection of gameplay and motion. This role requires both ...

Sr Manager, TV Animation

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$112K - $128K/yr

Mattel Studios is seeking a Sr. Manager, Adult & Four-Quad TV Animation to help drive the development and execution of a slate of premium animated programming based on Mattel's dynamic portfolio of ...

Sr Manager, TV Animation

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$112K - $128K/yr

Mattel Studios is seeking a Sr. Manager, Adult & Four-Quad TV Animation to help drive the development and execution of a slate of premium animated programming based on Mattel's dynamic portfolio of ...

Sr Manager, TV Animation

El Segundo, CA

$112K - $128K/yr

Mattel Studios is seeking a Sr. Manager, Adult & Four-Quad TV Animation to help drive the development and execution of a slate of premium animated programming based on Mattel's dynamic portfolio of ...

Work closely with the Animation, Design, and Programming departments to analyze, troubleshoot, and solve in-game animation implementation issues and animation-related technical challenges * Closely ...

Collaborate with Design and Engineering to troubleshoot and resolve in-game animation issues and technical challenges * Identify opportunities to improve the animation pipeline and workflow, and ...

Senior Technical Animator

Las Vegas, NV · On-site +1

$101K - $115K/yr

You'll work closely with artists, designers, and developers to build efficient animation pipelines, optimize assets for production, and ensure game features are implemented accurately. Success in ...

Animator

Princeton, NJ · On-site

$72 - $90/hr

... and animation sequences. * Translate technical and business concepts into easy-to-understand visual stories. * Collaborate with designers, developers, marketers, product teams, and subject-matter ...

New

Lead Animator

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$123K - $182K/yr

We are a diverse team of developers driven by a passion for our art, united by our core values and ... Iterate on animation and player feel through playtesting and hands-on tuning. * Develop quick ...

Lead Animator

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$123K - $182K/yr

We are a diverse team of developers driven by a passion for our art, united by our core values and ... Iterate on animation and player feel through playtesting and hands-on tuning. * Develop quick ...

Lead Animator

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$123K - $182K/yr

We are a diverse team of developers driven by a passion for our art, united by our core values and ... Iterate on animation and player feel through playtesting and hands-on tuning. * Develop quick ...

Showing results 21-40

Animation Programmer information

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How much do animation programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for animation programmer in the United States is $39.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.72 and $51.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an animation programmer?

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.

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 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 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.

More about Animation Programmer jobs

What cities are hiring for Animation Programmer jobs?

Cities with the most Animation Programmer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Animation Programmer jobs?

The most popular types of Animation Programmer jobs are:

What states have the most Animation Programmer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Animation Programmer jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Animation Programmer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Animation Programmer jobs are:

Infographic showing various Animation Programmer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 6% Temporary, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 88% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,234 per year, or $39.5 per hour.

Senior Technical Designer in Animation

Socket.dev

On-site

$178.11 - $315.80/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

WHAT MAKES US EPIC?

At the core of Epic’s success are talented, passionate people. Epic prides itself on creating a collaborative, welcoming, and creative environment. Whether it’s building award-winning games or crafting engine technology that enables others to make visually stunning interactive experiences, we’re always innovating.

Being Epic means being a part of a team that continually strives to do right by our community and users. We’re constantly innovating to raise the bar of engine and game development.

ARTWhat We Do

Push your artistic talent to the limit on a team of world-class environment, character and concept artists who strive to innovate and inspire.

What You\'ll Do

Epic Games is looking for a Senior Technical Designer in Animation (TDiA) to join our team working across various animation systems. As a TDiA, you will use your animation sense and technical understanding of character animation to design and create gameplay animation systems that facilitate appealing, high-quality character motion. You will be the primary point of contact for animation implementation issues and any animation-related technical challenges, and you will work closely with Animation, Design, and Engineering colleagues to ensure the animation pipeline operates smoothly and efficiently. You will also help identify potential issues and deploy correct solutions, using your technical knowledge to help bridge and facilitate communication between the animation team and other departments.

In this role, you will
  • Create animation behavior tools/techniques/philosophies that allow the building of complex movement systems
  • Design and implement animation state machines/behaviors and runtime solutions
  • Work closely with the Animation, Design, and Engineering departments to analyze, troubleshoot, and solve in-game animation implementation issues and animation-related technical challenges
  • Closely collaborate with the animation leadership to maintain the style and quality bar for animations in the game
  • Look for opportunities to improve the animation pipeline/workflow and help provide solutions for technical animation problems, including performing training and creating documentation for the animation team
What we\'re looking for
  • A strong animation sense with a clear understanding of realistic and stylized character motion and how to achieve them with modern animation methods
  • Expertise with animation pipelines, including source content creation tools such as Maya, MotionBuilder, and the Unreal Engine, using our Control Rig toolset
  • Exceptional problem-solving ability with strong written communication and teamwork skills
  • Familiarity with gameplay animation tools and concepts, such as blend trees and state machines; experience with Unreal Engine Animation Blueprints is a plus
  • Experience with AAA game development, preferably on a large team using an established game engine (internal or commercial); experience with Unreal Engine is a plus
  • Self-motivation, a strong work ethic, and the ability to work independently
  • Coding knowledge or experience with C++ is not required

This role is open to multiple locations across the US (including CA, NYC, & WA).

Pay Transparency Information

The expected annual base pay range(s) for this position are detailed below. Each base pay range is relevant only for individuals who are residents of or will be expected to work within the specified locale. Compensation varies based on a variety of factors, which include (but aren\'t limited to) things such as skills and competencies, qualifications, knowledge, and experience. In addition to base pay, most employees are eligible to participate in Epic’s generous benefit plans and discretionary incentive programs (subject to the terms of those plans or programs).

New York City Base Pay Range

$189,482 — $315,803 USD

California Base Pay Range

$178,112 — $296,854 USD

Washington Base Pay Range

$178,112 — $296,854 USD

ABOUT US

Epic Games is a leading interactive entertainment company. For over 30 years we\'ve been making award-winning games and engine technology that empowers others to make visually stunning games and 3D content that bring environments to life like never before. Epic\'s award-winning Unreal Engine technology not only provides game developers the ability to build high-fidelity, interactive experiences for PC, console, mobile, and VR, it is also a tool being embraced by content creators across a variety of industries such as media and entertainment, automotive, and architectural design. As we continue to build our Engine technology and develop remarkable games, we strive to build teams of world-class talent.

Like what you hear? Come be a part of something Epic!

Epic Games deeply values diverse teams and an inclusive work culture, and we are proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. Learn more about our Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy here.

Note to Recruitment Agencies: Epic does not accept any unsolicited resumes or approaches from any unauthorized third party (including recruitment or placement agencies) (i.e., a third party with whom we do not have a negotiated and validly executed agreement). We will not pay any fees to any unauthorized third party. Further details on these matters can be found here.

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