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Animation Student Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Adjunct Faculty DAA

San Jose, CA · On-site

$3.0K - $4.5K/mo

Ability to work with and help students. Ability and willingness to discern and meet the needs of students. * Skilled in storyboarding, digital painting, rigging, modeling and 2D animation * Strong ...

Showing results 21-40

Animation Student information

What is an animation student?

Animation students are individuals who are studying the principles, techniques, and tools used to create animated content for film, television, video games, and other media. They typically learn about traditional hand-drawn animation, 2D and 3D computer animation, character design, storyboarding, and visual effects. Animation students often use industry-standard software and work on projects that help them build a professional portfolio. Their education prepares them for careers in animation studios, game development, advertising, and related fields.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animation student?

To thrive as an Animation Student, you need foundational drawing skills, a basic understanding of animation principles, and enrollment in an animation or related arts program. Familiarity with digital animation software like Adobe Animate, Toon Boom Harmony, or Autodesk Maya is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and openness to feedback are essential soft skills for growth and collaboration. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing a strong portfolio, excelling in coursework, and preparing for future roles in the animation industry.

What are some common challenges animation students face during collaborative projects, and how can they overcome them?

Animation Students often participate in group projects that mirror real-world studio environments, where effective communication and clear division of tasks are essential. Common challenges include coordinating schedules, aligning on artistic vision, and integrating different animation styles. To overcome these, it's helpful to set regular meetings, use project management tools, and establish clear guidelines for feedback and revisions. Emphasizing open communication and flexibility can help ensure a smoother collaboration and a stronger final product.

What is the difference between Animation Student vs Animation Intern?

AspectAnimation StudentAnimation Intern
CredentialsEnrolled in a relevant educational programTypically a student or recent graduate
Work EnvironmentClassroom, studio projects, workshopsReal-world projects, company setting
Industry UsageLearning phase, skill developmentApplying skills, gaining experience
Common Search IntentUnderstanding education requirementsSeeking practical experience opportunities

Animation students are primarily in educational settings, focusing on learning foundational skills. Animation interns are usually gaining hands-on experience within companies, applying their knowledge to real projects. While both roles are related to animation, students are in training, whereas interns are actively working to build their portfolios and industry experience.

What kind of jobs can you get with a degree in animation?

An animation degree can lead to jobs such as animator, character designer, storyboard artist, visual effects artist, and motion graphics designer. These roles typically require proficiency in software like Adobe After Effects, Maya, or Blender and may involve working in film, television, gaming, or advertising industries.

What cities in California are hiring for Animation Student jobs?

Cities in California with the most Animation Student job openings:

Infographic showing various Animation Student job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 58% Full Time, 36% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution.

3D Animation & Visual Effects Lab Technician

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Academy of Art University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

$22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 16 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Support students, staff, and instructors in resolving academic and technical issues in the onsite lab and virtual lab.

  • Monitor student use of lab equipment and software, and assist with troubleshooting in-person and remotely.

  • Assist with maintaining equipment, managing displays, and supporting departmental events and exhibitions.


Job description

Driven. Engaging. Innovative. Do these words motivate you? If so, then we want to talk with you. Academy of Art University offers a rewarding employment experience for those who excel in a dynamic environment and who can consistently deliver high-caliber customer service. We thrive on ingenuity and pursue ideas every day that lead to extraordinary opportunities for tomorrow. Apply here for your next career!
Academy of Art University is seeking an experienced 3DAnimation & VFX Lab Technician for the School of Animation & Visual Effects to work directly with students, faculty and staff. This individual should have excellent communication skills and a passion for student success. This position is on-site in San Francisco, CA.
The Lab Technician will provide professional customer service, by communicating and troubleshooting directly with the students, staff, and faculty. Responsible for maintaining and troubleshooting of software issues, investigating new solutions, and streamlining processes of various software systems.
Responsibilities:
  • Support students, staff, and instructors to resolve Academic / Technical issues in the onsite lab & rLab (virtual lab).Provide excellent customer service. Provide a cordial and friendly presence to students, faculty and staff.
  • Monitor student use of the onsite lab and rLab. Use the WCO tools to check-in/check-out students. Communicate and coordinate with the Campus Hosts to ensure the smooth workflow.
  • Ensure that defaulting students are not attending classes or using equipment.
  • Assist students with software/equipment troubleshooting in-person, through email, Discord, or Zoom.
  • Collaborate with IT- Classroom Support Group to assist instructors and students with computer and software issues, to ensure that teachers can get back to instruction in the classroom as quickly as possible.
  • Assist with department run exhibitions and festivals.
  • Help maintain departmental aesthetic (change and update displays within department), including desktop publishing (fliers, videos, and other promotional media).
  • Check the status of all equipment in lab and the classrooms.
  • Protect equipment from theft and vandalism.
  • Maintain a clean, functional and productive learning environment.
  • Providing support and assistance to the Department Director.•

Qualifications & Requirements:
  • Computer literacy / Problem solving / Confidentiality / Attention to detail / Editing skills / Professional Communication Skills
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills and ability to work professionally with faculty, staff, administrators, external contacts and the general public.
  • Expert knowledge in one or more the following softwares: Adobe CC Suite, Autodesk Maya, Z Brush, Mari, Unreal Engine, Substance Painter, Nuke, Houdini, Arnold.
  • Must possess strong troubleshooting skills in both hardware and software on PC/Windows 10.
  • Must have working knowledge of video editing, audio mixers.

Shift Available: Hours to be determined upon hiring, up to 40 hours per week. Must be flexible and willing to work weekend, morning or night hours.
Compensation: $22.00/hour
Benefits:
Academy of Art University offers full-time employees health insurance, 401k options, paid holidays, paid sick leave and a commuter benefit program. The Academy also offers full-time employees an opportunity to take one undergraduate course tuition free each semester.
Application Deadline: September 8, 2026
Academy of Art University is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered regardless of age, Aids or HIV positive status, marital status, domestic partnership, medical condition or genetic characteristics, race or national origin, pregnancy, religion, sex, gender identity, gender or sexual orientation, name change, citizenship, physical or mental disability, veteran status or other status protected by federal, state, local or other law. Academy of Art University will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance. Equal access to the hiring process, services, and employment is available to all persons. Applicants requiring accommodations to the application and/or interview process should contact the Human Resources Department at recruitment@academyart.edu.