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Animator Pay Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Progressive Gaming

Animator

Reno, NV · On-site +1

$114K - $141K/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 ...

2K

Lead Animator

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$123K - $182K/yr

We are seeking a Lead Animator to lead by example through high-quality animation work while gaining ... However, base pay offered is based on market location, and may vary further depending on ...

2K

Lead Animator

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$123K - $182K/yr

We are seeking a Lead Animator to lead by example through high-quality animation work while gaining ... However, base pay offered is based on market location, and may vary further depending on ...

IGT

Animator

Reno, NV · On-site +1

$114K - $141K/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 ...

31st Union

Lead Animator

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$123K - $182K/yr

We are seeking a Lead Animator to lead by example through high-quality animation work while gaining ... However, base pay offered is based on market location, and may vary further depending on ...

31st Union

Lead Animator

San Mateo, CA

$123K - $182K/yr

We are seeking a Lead Animator to lead by example through high-quality animation work while gaining ... However, base pay offered is based on market location, and may vary further depending on ...

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 ...

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 ...

Tencent

Principal Technical Animator

Los Angeles, CA

$138K - $261K/yr

Build animation quality review mechanisms and evaluation systems. * Systematically ensure and ... Actual pay may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Employees hired for ...

New

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 ...

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

$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 ...

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Animator Pay information

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$10

$39

$70

How much do animator pay jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 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.

How much do animators pay?

Animator salaries vary based on experience, location, and industry, but the median annual pay in many regions ranges from $50,000 to $80,000. Entry-level animators typically earn less, while those with specialized skills in software like Maya or Adobe After Effects and a strong portfolio can earn higher wages.

Does Disney still hire 2D animators?

Disney continues to hire 2D animators, especially for projects that require traditional hand-drawn animation or a nostalgic aesthetic. While the industry has shifted toward digital 3D animation, there is still demand for skilled 2D animators in certain productions and specialized roles.

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.

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.

What is the highest paid animator?

The highest paid animators are often senior or lead professionals working in film, television, or video game industries, with top earners making over $150,000 annually. Experienced animators with specialized skills in 3D modeling, character design, or visual effects tend to earn the highest salaries, especially when working on major projects or for large studios.

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.

Is animator a high paying job?

Animator pay varies based on experience, location, and industry, but generally, it is considered a mid-range salary job. Entry-level animators often earn less, while experienced professionals working in film, gaming, or advertising can earn higher wages, especially with specialized skills and advanced software knowledge.
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
Infographic showing various Animator Pay job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 17% Locum Tenens, 60% As Needed, 22% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 71% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,974 per year, or $39.4 per hour.

Animator

Progressive Gaming

Reno, NV • On-site, Remote

$114K - $141K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 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


Work Location

This role is based onsite at our Reno office. While it isn't remote-eligible, we welcome applicants who already live in Reno/surrounding areas or are excited about the opportunity to relocate.

What You Bring
  • Minimum 3-5 years 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