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Animation Software Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Epic Games

Animation Systems Programmer

Larkspur, CA · On-site

$167K - $245K/yr

Excellent linear algebra skills and applications of linear algebra in software * Experience with rigging systems, animation state machines, low-level animation systems, physics-based, procedural, and ...

Archinect

Job Captain

Irvine, CA · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

Produce 3D massing models, photorealistic renderings and/or animations. * Provide graphic design support with proposals and marketing materials using photoshop, desktop publishing software, creation ...

New

NextDeavor Inc.

VOC Platform Success Specialist

San Jose, CA · On-site

$45.07 - $56.34/hr

It offers a wide range of programs from web design tools, photo manipulation and vector creation, through to video/audio editing, mobile app development, print layout and animation software. Benefits ...

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All JobsAnimation Software JobsAnimation Software Jobs in California

Animation Software information

See California salary details

$10.9K

$92.3K

$138.7K

How much do animation software jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for animation software in California is $92,295.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,200.00 and $105,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is animation software?

Animation software is a computer program used to create moving images, graphics, or visual effects by sequencing individual frames or manipulating digital objects. These tools allow artists and animators to design characters, backgrounds, and scenes, and bring them to life through motion. Animation software can be used for various purposes, including films, video games, advertisements, and educational materials. Popular animation software includes Adobe Animate, Blender, Toon Boom Harmony, and Autodesk Maya.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animation software specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animation Software Specialist, you need a solid understanding of animation principles, computer graphics, and software development, often supported by a degree in computer science, animation, or a related field. Expertise in tools such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, Adobe After Effects, and programming languages like Python or C++ is typically required, along with knowledge of industry-standard rendering engines. Strong problem-solving, creativity, and collaboration skills help specialists create innovative and functional animation solutions. These skills enable the development of efficient, user-friendly, and high-quality animation software that meets the needs of artists and studios.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working with animation software in a collaborative studio environment?

Professionals using animation software in studio settings often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility across different software versions, managing large project files, and keeping asset libraries organized for team access. Effective communication is crucial, as animators frequently need to share work-in-progress files and receive feedback from directors, designers, and technical artists. Staying up-to-date with the latest software updates and plugins is also important to maintain workflow efficiency and quality standards.

What is the difference between Animation Software vs 3D Modeler?

AspectAnimation Software3D Modeler
Primary FocusCreating animations, motion graphics, and visual effectsDesigning and building 3D models and assets
Required SkillsAnimation techniques, timeline management, renderingModeling, texturing, topology, and sculpting
Work EnvironmentAnimation studios, post-production houses, freelanceDesign studios, gaming, film, and visualization
Common ToolsAdobe After Effects, Blender, Maya, Cinema 4DBlender, ZBrush, 3ds Max, Maya

While both Animation Software and 3D Modelers work within the 3D industry, Animation Software focuses on bringing models to life through movement and effects, whereas 3D Modelers specialize in creating detailed 3D assets. Understanding these differences helps professionals choose the right tools and career paths in the digital content creation industry.

What are popular job titles related to Animation Software jobs in California?

For Animation Software jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Animation Software jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Animation Software jobs in California are:

Animation Software jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animation Software job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,295 per year, or $44.4 per hour.

Animation Systems Programmer

Epic Games

Larkspur, CA • On-site

$167K - $245K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

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.
ENGINEERING - SPECIAL PROJECTS
What We Do
The Special Projects team at Epic is responsible for executing high-impact projects that push the envelope to define the future of real-time graphics and gaming technology (The Matrix Awakens, Lumen in the Land of Nanite). In collaboration with the Unreal Engine team, we strive to put our technology and knowledge into the hands of users, empowering developers and content creators with the most powerful suite of real-time tools in the world.
What You'll Do
Epic Games is looking for an experienced Animation Systems Programmer for our Special Projects team. As a member of our team, you will play a critical role in driving future projects that push boundaries, explore new technology, and help define the future of Unreal Engine. You will be responsible for developing, enhancing, optimizing, and maintaining the core animation systems and will work closely with Animation, Design, and Engineering colleagues to ensure characterful and entertaining animation that is efficient and performant. 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
  • Architect, implement, and maintain core animation systems used across the Special Projects team
  • Work closely with other engineers, animators, technical animators, product designers, leads and external technology partners across multiple teams and time zones
  • Write technical documentation and designs
  • Conduct exploratory research to pioneer and develop innovative animation systems and techniques that push the boundaries of what is possible in real-time production
What we're looking for
  • Extensive experience writing C++ applications
  • Excellent linear algebra skills and applications of linear algebra in software
  • Experience with rigging systems, animation state machines, low-level animation systems, physics-based, procedural, and/or IK animation systems
  • Experience with multi-threaded programming and system tasks such as graphics, audio, I/O, networking, memory handling, debuggers, etc.
  • Experience with application-level programming, such as script compilers and user-facing tools
  • Strong artistic intuition and an eye for quality animation; as technical tooling becomes more advanced, you prioritize the visual "feel" of the animation to ensure it meets the highest standards
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, self-motivated, and able to work independently
  • Creativity in problem-solving and the ability to think outside of the established solutions
  • Knowledge of ML/AI and its potential applications
  • Someone who is user-focused, passionate, solutions-focused, and innovative. These traits equal success at Epic and influence everything we do
EPIC JOB + EPIC BENEFITS = EPIC LIFE
Our intent is to cover all things that are medically necessary and improve the quality of life. We pay 100% of the premiums for both you and your dependents. Our coverage includes Medical, Dental, a Vision HRA, Long Term Disability, Life Insurance & a 401k with competitive match. We also offer a robust mental well-being program through Modern Health, which provides free therapy and coaching for employees & dependents. Throughout the year we celebrate our employees with events and company-wide paid breaks. We offer unlimited PTO and sick time and recognize individuals for 7 years of employment with a paid sabbatical.
California Base Pay Range
$167,399-$245,519 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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