1

Animation Software Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Animation Software information

See California salary details

$10.9K

$92.3K

$138.7K

How much do animation software jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 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?

For animation careers, industry-standard software includes Autodesk Maya, Adobe After Effects, Blender, and Toon Boom Harmony. Proficiency in these tools, along with strong artistic skills and understanding of animation principles, is essential for success in the field.

Will AI replace animators?

AI technology is increasingly used to assist animators by automating repetitive tasks and enhancing creative workflows. However, human animators are still essential for creative direction, storytelling, and nuanced character development, making full replacement unlikely in the near future.

Does Disney still hire 2D animators?

Disney continues to hire 2D animators for certain projects, especially in legacy animation and specialized roles, though the company primarily focuses on 3D animation for most productions. Skills in traditional drawing, digital tools like Toon Boom or Adobe Animate, and a strong portfolio are important for these roles.

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 animator, character designer, storyboard artist, visual effects artist, and 3D modeler. 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:
Infographic showing various Animation Software job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% Full Time, 50% Part Time, and 25% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $92,295 per year, or $44.4 per hour.

Training Intern, DreamWorks Animation, Fall 2026

NBCUniversal

Glendale, CA • On-site

$17.87/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Company Description

DreamWorks Animation is looking for more adventurous dreamers who shoot for the moon. We tell stories about the journeys our unconventional heroes take to make dreams come true. As a growth-minded studio, we pride ourselves on being one of the world's leading producers of high-quality, award-winning, animated films and series, reaching consumers around the globe. We push to feel more, laugh more, and build immersive new worlds.

DreamWorks creates a diverse array of original content in a variety of formats, delivering compelling stories with unique characters. We place tremendous value on the experiences our talent brings to the table from their own non-traditional paths to success. We believe in frequent communication and that transparency and trust yield the best work. We are a community of artists, technologists, innovators, and creators, who are passionate about animation and also happen to love eating lunch together.

In the DreamWorks Internship Program, interns work in an engaging and exciting environment alongside creative leaders and artists who are committed to building an inclusive and collaborative culture. Interns are immersed into TV and Feature animated productions while gaining hands-on experience at our studio. Open to students and recent grads, we love those who are driven and hungry to learn, are curious and resourceful, and most importantly, are passionate about animation. 

The Internship Program also showcases best-in-class opportunities by offering executive speaker series, professional/career development workshops, artistic classes, community outreach opportunities, movie screenings, and much more!

If you are part of the fandom and believe teamwork makes the dream work, join us in #livingthedream and #doingyourdreamwork!

Fall 2026 Training Internship: 

  • Applications close: June 29, 2026 at 11:59pm PT

  • Program Dates: September 28 - December 3, 2026

  • Time Commitment: Part-Time (24 hours per week required)

  • Format: In Person (Tuesday - Thursday)

Job Description

Responsibilities: "What would you say you do here?" 

  • Gain knowledge on the role of the Training Department in the studio and an understanding of the training workflow for TV, Overhead, and Feature Departments (Animation, Effects, Surfacing, Matte Painting, etc).

  • Supervise virtual, hybrid, and onsite classes, track attendance, including data entry and Excel database maintenance, and record various classes with screen capture software. 

  • Edit recorded classes in Adobe Premiere. 

  • Tackle administrative tasks and design posters to promote training classes as needed. 

  • Encouraged to attend virtual training classes to learn about the animation pipeline as well as the software used to create our movies.

  • Can also have the opportunity to meet with artists from different departments and to further develop skills in areas of interest.

Qualifications

Qualifications: What do I need to have in order to do this job?" 

  • Experience with collecting/prioritizing data in Excel

  • Experience with video editing skills using software like Adobe Premiere

  • Basic design skills using software like Photoshop

  • Confidently looks to solve problems, handles time efficiently, and pays close attention to details

  • A great teammate with a can-do demeanor and strong communication skills

  • Proactive and has strong multi-tasking skills with efficient task prioritization

  • Pursuing an Associate, Bachelor or Graduate degree at a College/University (or equivalent), or be a recent graduate (within six months of graduation date)

  • Must be 18 years of age or older

  • Must be willing to work in Glendale, California

  • Ability to provide own relocation, housing and transportation

  • Must be authorized to work in the United States without visa sponsorship

Desired Characteristics: "What can I offer?"

  • Curiosity about animation or feature film production

  • Customer service skills preferred

Hourly Rate:  $17.87

Hybrid: This position has been designated as hybrid, which currently requires contributing from the office a minimum of three days per week. Beginning January 5, 2026, hybrid employees will be required to work from the office a minimum of four days per week. The Company reserves the right to change in-office requirements at any time.

Additional Information

As part of our selection process, external candidates may be required to attend an in-person interview with an NBCUniversal employee at one of our locations prior to a hiring decision. NBCUniversal's policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, gender identity or expression, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, membership in the uniformed services, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable law.

NBCUniversal will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories, or arrest or conviction records, in a manner consistent with relevant legal requirements, including the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative For Hiring Ordinance, the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, and the California Fair Chance Act, where applicable.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran and require support throughout the application and/or recruitment process as a result of your disability, you have the right to request a reasonable accommodation. You can submit your request to [email protected].