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Animation Software Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Youth Beat

Multimedia Teaching Artist

Oakland, CA

Editing experience in Adobe Premiere (or animation software) * Additional media skills a plus: Photography, Motion Graphics, Music Composition, Web Design. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Ability to move and ...

Youth Beat

Multimedia Teaching Artist

Oakland, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Editing experience in Adobe Premiere (or animation software) * Additional media skills a plus: Photography, Motion Graphics, Music Composition, Web Design. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Ability to move and ...

Youth Beat

Multimedia Teaching Artist

Oakland, CA · On-site

Editing experience in Adobe Premiere (or animation software) * Additional media skills a plus: Photography, Motion Graphics, Music Composition, Web Design. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Ability to move and ...

Tencent

Principal Technical Animator

Los Angeles, CA

$138K - $261K/yr

Proficient with animation DCC software such as Maya. * Capable of producing top-tier quality animations independently. * Deep understanding of animation principles. * Expert in animation state ...

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 ...

Bennett Recruiting Services

Be Seen First

3D Product Design Developer

West Hollywood, CA · On-site

$105K - $125K/yr

... animation software. Should be able to take a rhino design model and render all proposed materials to match existing and new colorways. · Competent in taking 2-dimensional design concepts to a ...

General Atomics

Training Developer II

Poway, CA · On-site

$56K - $96K/yr

Vyond or other animation software * Adobe Creative Cloud suite of solutions * Must be customer focused and possess: * The ability to develop solutions to a variety of problems of moderate scope and ...

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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 Jul 21, 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 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 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 software is best for animation careers?

Animation professionals often use software such as Autodesk Maya, Adobe After Effects, Blender, and Toon Boom Harmony, which are industry-standard tools for 3D modeling, compositing, and 2D animation. Proficiency in these programs, along with strong artistic skills and understanding of animation principles, can enhance job prospects in the field.

What jobs can I do with animation?

With animation skills, you can pursue roles such as animator, character designer, storyboard artist, visual effects artist, or motion graphics designer. These jobs typically require proficiency in animation software like Adobe After Effects, Maya, or Blender, and may involve working in film, television, video game development, advertising, or digital media industries.

Does Disney still hire 2D animators?

Disney continues to hire 2D animators for projects that require traditional animation skills, often in conjunction with digital techniques. While the industry has shifted toward 3D animation, there is still demand for experienced 2D animators in certain productions and training programs.

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 careers are in animation?

Careers in animation include roles such as character animator, 3D modeler, storyboard artist, visual effects artist, and animation director. These positions often require proficiency with animation software like Maya, Blender, or Adobe After Effects, and may involve working in film, television, video game development, or advertising industries.
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

Multimedia Teaching Artist

Youth Beat

Oakland, CA

Part-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

JOB TITLE
Youth Beat - Teaching Artist (Video Production)


TIMELINE
Applications accepted starting July, 2026. Hiring immediately

JOB DETAILS

Teaching Artist Opportunities Available

YouthBeat Media Academy, 2026-2027 School Year:

Filmmaking, and Photography Programs

Locations & Times:

  • August 12-May 31 averaging 8-12 hours per week, depending on placement.
  • 2026-26 positions include programs for:
    • Social Media Production
    • Digital Marketing
    • Photography
    • Videography After Effects
    • Motion graphics


INSTRUCTIONS
Please do not send your application directly through email. Please read the following in order to avoid application delays:

  • Applications will be reviewed immediately and candidates with the best fit will be contacted for interviews.
  • Unfortunately, the volume of applications will prevent us from responding to all applications received.

ABOUT YOUTH BEAT:

Youth Beat at KDOL-TV is a non-profit program (fiscally sponsored by the Oakland Public Education Fund) offering free media production training to Oakland youth. We provide hands-on experience in video, journalism, filmmaking, photography, design, and animation-helping middle and high school students stay engaged in school and build career-ready skills.

Our team of teaching artists, educators, and producers lead after-school and summer programs at KDOL-TV, teach across Oakland Unified School District (OUSD), and guide youth-led freelance projects through our media company, Youth Beat PRO.

We're seeking energetic, creative individuals passionate about media and mentoring diverse, underrepresented youth. Ideal for local creators seeking consistent part-time work or a pathway into media education at a growing nonprofit. Additional hours and project leadership opportunities may be available.

We're hiring part-time Teaching Artists for August 2026 to help expand our capacity to serve more Oakland youth.


ABOUT THE ROLE:

We're seeking skilled multimedia, video production, and animation professionals passionate about sharing their craft with Oakland youth (grades 3-12).

Teaching Artists report to Youth Beat's Education Director and will plan and teach curriculum, support student projects, and help grow our media arts career pathway. Strong technical skills in video production and the ability to connect with inner-city youth are essential. Experience with photography, animation, or design is a plus.

Youth Beat is rapidly expanding, offering opportunities for increased hours and future growth within the organization.


DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Work with diverse, inner-city youth from Oakland schools as they learn the basics of filmmaking and/or animation.
  • Plan, deliver, and refine curriculum as part of the teaching team
  • Participate in Professional Development and Staff Trainings
  • Follow data and attendance tracking procedures and complete monthly progress reports for Youth Beat
  • Lead and complete media projects along with students for paying clients as part of our youth production company, YB Pro. (These opportunities offer additional freelance opportunities and income for our employees and students, as well as access to our professional production gear at KDOL-TV.)

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's Degree preferred from an accredited college or university in a related field: Media Studies that includes Video Production, Graphic Design, Motion Graphics, etc.
  • Ability and passion for working with diverse, inner-city teenagers.
  • In-depth working knowledge of the three stages of video production.
  • Editing experience in Adobe Premiere (or animation software)
  • Additional media skills a plus: Photography, Motion Graphics, Music Composition, Web Design.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Ability to move and set up professional production equipment.


EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY DISCLOSURE:

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and identities, including women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities.

We know strong candidates may bring skills or perspectives beyond what's listed, if that's you, we encourage you to apply and share how you can contribute to our mission.

Apply