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Animator Pay Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Progressive Gaming

Animator

Reno, NV

$114.50K - $141.40K/yr

Create high-impact animations and visual effects for real-time and pre-rendered gameplay * Craft ... We proudly comply with all applicable local pay transparency laws and collective bargaining ...

IGT

Animator

Reno, NV

$114.50K - $141.40K/yr

Create high-impact animations and visual effects for real-time and pre-rendered gameplay * Craft ... We proudly comply with all applicable local pay transparency laws and collective bargaining ...

Turtle Rock Studios

Technical Animator - Temp

Irvine, CA · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

Working with animators, engineers, and designers, this role focuses on developing and improving ... Fully Stocked Kitchen + Sponsored Food Trucks The estimated base pay range for this role is: $85 ...

ZeniMax Media

Creature Animator (Outsourcing)

Rockville, MD · On-site

$70K - $155K/yr

Apply animation principles to evaluate, refine, and ensure the quality of creature animations ... ZeniMax has different base pay ranges for different work locations within the United States, which ...

TechLink Systems

Flash - Animator

Torrance, CA · On-site

FLASH1- Animator/Developer if you are interested please forward your updated resume, pay expectations along with best ph. # and time to talk about this job . Description This position requires an ...

ZeniMax Media

Animator (First-Person)

Rockville, MD · On-site

$70K - $155K/yr

Salary Range Animator (First-Person) - The typical base pay range for this position at the start of employment is expected to be between $70,000 - $155,000 per year. ZeniMax has different base pay ...

TechLink Systems

Flash - Animator

Torrance, CA

FLASH1- Animator/Developer if you are interested please forward your updated resume, pay expectations along with best ph. # and time to talk about this job . Description This position requires an ...

Ember Lab

Senior Gameplay Animator

Orange, CA · On-site

$88K - $120K/yr

As a Senior Gameplay Animator, you will conceptualize, design, develop and execute 3D animations ... Actual pay will vary depending on experience, qualifications, performance and location. The base ...

Ember Lab

Senior Gameplay Animator

Orange, CA

$88K - $120K/yr

As a Senior Gameplay Animator, you will conceptualize, design, develop and execute 3D animations ... Actual pay will vary depending on experience, qualifications, performance and location. The base ...

Ember Lab

Senior Gameplay Animator

Orange, CA · On-site

As a Senior Gameplay Animator, you will conceptualize, design, develop and execute 3D animations ... Actual pay will vary depending on experience, qualifications, performance and location. The base ...

Velan Studios

Gameplay Animator (Senior+/Lead)

Troy, NY · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

We are looking for a Senior Gameplay Animator with the experience and passion to drive our gameplay ... Please note that the actual base pay may vary based on factors such as your qualifications, skills ...

Velan Studios

Gameplay Animator (Senior+/Lead)

Troy, NY

$110K - $150K/yr

We are looking for a Senior Gameplay Animator with the experience and passion to drive our gameplay ... Please note that the actual base pay may vary based on factors such as your qualifications, skills ...

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Animator Pay information

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$39

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How much do animator pay jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for animator pay in the United States is $39.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.88 and $63.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Animator, you need strong artistic ability, a solid understanding of animation principles, and typically a degree in animation, graphic design, or a related field. Proficiency in industry-standard animation software such as Adobe After Effects, Autodesk Maya, or Toon Boom Harmony is commonly required. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial for producing visually engaging animations that meet client or project specifications while collaborating efficiently within creative teams.

What are some common challenges animators face when negotiating their pay or salary?

Animators often encounter challenges such as pay discrepancies based on project budgets, studio size, and location. Freelance animators may find it difficult to set competitive rates, especially when balancing client expectations with fair compensation for their skills and experience. Additionally, animators working in-house might struggle with salary transparency and advancement opportunities, as pay scales can vary widely across the industry. Researching industry standards and networking with peers can help animators better advocate for fair pay during negotiations.

How much do animators typically get paid?

Animator pay can vary widely depending on factors such as experience, location, industry, and the type of animation work. In the United States, the median annual salary for animators and multimedia artists is around $78,790 as of 2022, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Entry-level animators may earn less, while experienced or specialized animators working in film, television, or video games can earn significantly more. Freelance rates also vary, often depending on the complexity of the project and the animator's portfolio.

What is the difference between Animator Pay vs Video Editor Pay?

AspectAnimator PayVideo Editor Pay
Required CredentialsAnimation degree or related certificationVideo production or editing certification
Work EnvironmentAnimation studios, media companies, freelanceMedia companies, production houses, freelance
Industry UsageUsed in entertainment, advertising, gamingUsed in film, TV, online content
Common Search IntentComparing salaries and pay ratesComparing salaries and pay rates

Animator Pay and Video Editor Pay are both creative roles in media industries, often requiring similar certifications and working in related environments. While animator salaries tend to be higher due to specialized skills in character and motion design, video editors focus on assembling footage and editing content. Understanding these differences helps job seekers and employers set appropriate compensation expectations based on role-specific skills and industry standards.

More about Animator Pay jobs
What cities are hiring for Animator Pay jobs? Cities with the most Animator Pay job openings:
What states have the most Animator Pay jobs? States with the most job openings for Animator Pay jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Animator Pay jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Animator Pay jobs are:
Animator Pay jobs near you

Animator

Progressive Gaming

Reno, NV

$114.50K - $141.40K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

IGT, where innovation meets entertainment on a global scale!  From the casino floor to your mobile screen, we deliver thrilling, responsible, and unforgettable gaming experiences-powered by worldclass content, strong technical and commercial capabilities and nurtured by a culture of collaboration, accountability, and ownership.

 

Whether it's spinning reels, placing bets, or enabling secure payments, we turn innovation into impact through disciplined execution and longterm value creation. With a team of over 6,000 employees across 30+ countries and products delivered in more than 100 jurisdictions worldwide, we operate at scale while staying closely connected to costumers we serve. If you're ready to bring your talent to a team shaping the future of entertainment, your next big move starts here - www.igt.com.

Overview

Bring worlds to life at IGT's Vibe Studio in Reno, Nevada! We're looking for Animators who thrive on creating bold, dynamic visuals that elevate gameplay and captivate players. You'll shape the look, feel, and energy of our games-owning animation from concept to final polish while collaborating with a passionate, cross-disciplinary team.

What You'll Do

  • Create high-impact animations and visual effects for real-time and pre-rendered gameplay
  • Craft storyboards, animatics, and gameplay sequences that maximize excitement
  • Collaborate with designers, engineers, and artists to define and execute creative vision
  • Bring complex game mechanics to life (bonuses, jackpots, feature events, etc.)
  • Elevate quality through feedback, iteration, and hands-on problem solving
  • Explore new techniques, tools, and workflows to push visual innovation
  • Playtest and refine animations to ensure they're engaging, polished, and fun
What You Bring
  • Minimum 3-5 years experience
  • Game development experience required
  • Strong portfolio/reel showcasing animation, timing, and visual storytelling
  • Expertise in 2D/3D tools (After Effects, Spine, Maya, Blender, etc.)
  • Experience creating animations in Unity or other real-time engines
  • Deep understanding of motion, composition, and player-driven animation design
  • Ability to collaborate, give/receive feedback, and raise the bar creatively
Keys to Success

 Building collaborative relationships
Decision making
Drive results
Foster innovation
Personal energy
Self-leadership
#LI-CK1

At IGT, we believe compensation should be as individual as you are, reflecting your skills, experience, background, and location. For this role, the starting compensation range is $114,500 to $141,400, with flexibility to adjust higher or lower based on the full scope of qualifications. We proudly comply with all applicable local pay transparency laws and collective bargaining agreements.

And compensation is just the beginning. Our Total Rewards program is designed to support your success, both professionally and personally, and may include:

  • Commission opportunities for eligible sales roles
  • Discretionary bonus potential for non-sales positions
  • Comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, accident, and disability insurance
  • A 401(k) Savings Plan with company contributions to help you plan for the future
  • Tuition reimbursement to support continued learning and growth
  • Paid time off to rest, recharge, and reset
  • Wellness programs that support your overall well-being
  • Identity theft protection for added peace of mind

Apply