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Animation Software Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Students learn about software engineering, computer graphics, artificial intelligence, animation, software architecture and networking. The game programing degree addresses the real-world needs of ...

Students learn about software engineering, computer graphics, artificial intelligence, animation, software architecture and networking. The game programing degree addresses the real-world needs of ...

Students learn about software engineering, computer graphics, artificial intelligence, animation, software architecture and networking. The game programing degree addresses the real-world needs of ...

Students learn about software engineering, computer graphics, artificial intelligence, animation, software architecture and networking. The game programing degree addresses the real-world needs of ...

Java Developer III

Chicago, IL · On-site

$52.50 - $68/hr

... hardware and software environment that serves a complex education community. Develop web ... Animations Knowledge of source control concepts and can commit code to repositories such as Git ...

Senior IOS Developer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$61.75 - $80/hr

Company Description Intersog Inc. is a global provider of custom software development specializing ... graphics, animations and highly interactive multimedia apps Experience with RESTful backend ...

Senior IOS Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$61.75 - $80/hr

Company Description Intersog Inc. is a global provider of custom software development specializing ... graphics, animations and highly interactive multimedia apps Experience with RESTful backend ...

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Animation Software Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$61.5K

$143K

$199.1K

How much do animation software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for animation software engineer in Illinois is $142,954.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,300.00 and $167,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced software engineers, including those working in specialized fields like machine learning, AI, or at major tech companies, can earn $500,000 or more annually. Such compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, and typically requires advanced skills, extensive experience, and working in competitive environments.

What does an Animation Software Engineer do?

An Animation Software Engineer develops and optimizes software tools, frameworks, and pipelines used in animation production. They collaborate with animators, artists, and technical teams to improve workflows, enhance rendering performance, and integrate new animation technologies. Their work often involves programming in languages like C++, Python, or CUDA, and using graphics libraries such as OpenGL or DirectX.

Are animators still in demand?

Animators, including those working as animation software engineers, continue to be in demand due to the growth of digital media, gaming, film, and advertising industries. Skills in industry-standard tools like Maya, Blender, or Adobe After Effects, along with a strong portfolio, are valuable for securing employment in this field.

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

To thrive as an Animation Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills (C++, Python, or similar), a background in computer graphics or animation technologies, and often a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with graphics APIs (such as OpenGL or DirectX), 3D animation software (like Maya, Blender), and version control systems is frequently required. Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills set candidates apart in collaborative production environments. These capabilities are vital for developing robust, efficient animation tools and ensuring seamless integration into creative pipelines.

What does an average workday look like for an Animation Software Engineer?

On a typical day, an Animation Software Engineer collaborates closely with artists, animators, and other engineers to develop and refine tools and systems that power animation workflows. Daily responsibilities often include writing and optimizing code, troubleshooting technical issues, participating in design discussions, and integrating feedback from creative teams. The work environment is highly collaborative, requiring frequent communication to translate artistic needs into technical solutions. This role can be fast-paced, especially when meeting project deadlines, but also offers the satisfaction of seeing your tools and features directly impact the quality of animated content.

Can a software engineer work in animation?

Yes, a software engineer can work in animation by developing tools, software, or algorithms used in creating animated content. Skills in programming languages such as C++ or Python, along with knowledge of graphics APIs and animation software, are often required for such roles.
What are the most commonly searched types of Animation Software Engineer jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Animation Software Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
Infographic showing various Animation Software Engineer job openings in Illinois as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 71% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $142,954 per year, or $68.7 per hour.
Adjunct Faculty in Game Programming

Adjunct Faculty in Game Programming

DePaul University

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 7 days ago


DePaul University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

337th of 544 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Description
DePaul's Jarvis College of Computing & Digital Media (CDM) is located in the heart of Chicago's Loop, the central business district of Chicago. Our students represent many different experiences, perspectives, and cultures, and the university strives to recruit and sustain a faculty community where all backgrounds are valued and supported. Part-time teaching positions are available throughout the academic year, including summer sessions. Academic course schedules fluctuate from quarter to quarter, and the college will work with selected individuals to determine a quarterly schedule. Courses are not guaranteed, however the college does its best to give ample notice about available courses. Applicants with expertise that matches course scheduling needs will be contacted for an interview.
The School of Computing (SoC) offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs including Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Game Programming, Health Informatics, Human-Computer Interaction, Information Systems, Information Technology, Intelligent Systems Engineering, Network Engineering and Security, and Software Engineering. Find out more about SoC at https://www.cdm.depaul.edu/academics/Pages/School-of-Computing.aspx.
Qualifications
Minimum requirements include a master's degree in the discipline, or 18 semester/27 quarter hours of graduate work in the discipline, or an undergraduate degree with a minimum of five years demonstrated relevant professional experience. Exceptions may be considered with approval of the dean.
Application Instructions
We offer undergraduate and graduate degrees in Game Programming.
The Bachelor of Science degree in Game Programming trains students in the fundamentals of programming with a focus towards the interdisciplinary aspect of game development. Gameplay programmers bring their technical understanding of game internals to the problem of delivering engaging game experiences to players. Throughout the program, students collaborate on interdisciplinary teams with programmers, artists, game designers, producers, writers, and audio designers. Areas of study include level design, game scripting, computer graphics development, tool making, game physics, and artificial intelligence programming.
The Master of Science degree in Game Programming is designed for those interested in game programming at the highest level, including real time computing, computer graphics and professionals retooling for the game industry. Students learn about software engineering, computer graphics, artificial intelligence, animation, software architecture and networking. The game programing degree addresses the real-world needs of industry through special, topic-based classes. Courses are taught with a mixture of theory and applied practice. Covering both emerging trends and proven knowledge, the program's content is always relevant and current. This combination of approaches allows students to understand the connection between realized applied systems and issues they'll likely face professionally in years to come.
Considerations:
Exceptions to standard rates may apply to courses with unique credit hours, supervision, labs, clinical/practicum courses, coaching, administrative tasks, and courses that are either over-enrolled or under-enrolled.
General Compensation/Benefits Statement:
DePaul University has provided a compensation range that represents its good faith estimate of what the University may pay for the position at the time of posting. The salary offered to the selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the qualifications, education, experience, and training of the selected candidate, the scope and responsibilities of the position, departmental budget availability, internal salary equity considerations, and available market information.
DePaul University offers a variety of benefit options for qualified part-time employees. Further information regarding benefits can be found here: https://offices.depaul.edu/human-resources/benefits/part-time/Pages/default.aspx
About DePaul University's Academic Calendar:
Except for the College of Law, DePaul University operates on a quarter system. Classes in Autumn, Winter, and Spring quarters are 11 weeks in length (including finals week) and Summer courses, in two sessions, are typically 5 weeks in length. The College of Law operates on the semester system. Classes in the Fall and Spring semesters are 16 weeks in length (including finals week) and it offers a Summer Session of 7 weeks (including final exams).
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
DePaul University is an Equal Opportunity employer with a strong commitment to hiring for our mission and diversifying our faculty and staff. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion (except where religion is a bona fide occupational qualification for the job), national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status or any other factor protected by law.
DePaul University and Our Mission
As an innovative Catholic, Vincentian university anchored in the global city of Chicago, DePaul supports the integral human development of its students. The university does so through its commitment to outstanding teaching, academic excellence, real-world experience, and community engagement. DePaul prepares its graduates to be successful in their chosen fields and agents of transformation throughout their lives.
Guided by an ethic of Vincentian personalism and professionalism, DePaul passionately upholds the dignity of all members of its diverse, multi-faith, and inclusive community. Through education, creative endeavors, and research, the university addresses the great questions of our day, promoting peaceful, just, and equitable solutions to social and environmental challenges. Since its founding in 1898, DePaul University has remained dedicated to making education accessible to all, with special attention to including underserved and underrepresented communities.
Comprised of ten colleges and schools, offering 130+ undergraduate majors and 170+ graduate programs, DePaul's faculty challenges its students to analyze and solve real-world problems with rigor and innovation.
As an urban faith-based institution with a diverse student body, DePaul is committed to growing and maintaining a faculty dedicated to advancing the Vincentian mission through research, teaching, and service. DePaul upholds a fair and equitable recruitment, interview, and hiring process where supporting diverse populations and academic excellence are compatible goals. Our vibrant and diverse faculty is supported through academic and professional development resources. Successful candidates thrive and are at home in an environment where diverse cultures and identities, ideas, backgrounds, and experiences are welcomed and supported.

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