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Animator Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Varsity Tutors

Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor

Washington, DC · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain polygon modeling, UV unwrapping, keyframe animation, and physically based rendering while preparing students for careers in architectural visualization, game asset creation, and ...

Varsity Tutors

Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor

College Park, MD · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain polygon modeling, UV unwrapping, keyframe animation, and physically based rendering while preparing students for careers in architectural visualization, game asset creation, and ...

Varsity Tutors

Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor

Leesburg, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain polygon modeling, UV unwrapping, keyframe animation, and physically based rendering while preparing students for careers in architectural visualization, game asset creation, and ...

Varsity Tutors

Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor

Rockville, MD · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain polygon modeling, UV unwrapping, keyframe animation, and physically based rendering while preparing students for careers in architectural visualization, game asset creation, and ...

Varsity Tutors

Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor

Fairfax, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain polygon modeling, UV unwrapping, keyframe animation, and physically based rendering while preparing students for careers in architectural visualization, game asset creation, and ...

Varsity Tutors

Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor

Alexandria, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain polygon modeling, UV unwrapping, keyframe animation, and physically based rendering while preparing students for careers in architectural visualization, game asset creation, and ...

Morfologica

Training Specialist/Instructor

Reston, VA · On-site

Familiarity with a variety of software packages for graphics, animation and interactive video editing is highly desirable. Knowledge of relevant state-of-the-art technology than can be applied to a ...

Life Time, Inc.

Pickleball Pro

Reston, VA · On-site

$15/hr

Position Summary Teach private pickleball lessons and group programming. Coordinate pickleball leagues and mixers. Embrace and execute student centered learning and rally based teaching. Grow your ...

Life Time

Pickleball Pro

Reston, VA · On-site

$15/hr

Position Summary Teach private pickleball lessons and group programming. Coordinate pickleball leagues and mixers. Embrace and execute student centered learning and rally based teaching. Grow your ...

Life Time, Inc.

Pickleball Pro

Sterling, VA · On-site

$15/hr

Position Summary Teach private pickleball lessons and group programming. Coordinate pickleball leagues and mixers. Embrace and execute student centered learning and rally based teaching. Grow your ...

Life Time, Inc.

Pickleball Pro

Gainesville, VA · On-site

$15/hr

Position Summary Teach private pickleball lessons and group programming. Coordinate pickleball leagues and mixers. Embrace and execute student centered learning and rally based teaching. Grow your ...

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All JobsAnimator JobsAnimator Jobs in Reston, VA

Animator information

See Reston, VA salary details

$11

$41

$73

How much do animator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for animator in Reston, VA is $41.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.79 and $66.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs can animators get?

Animators can work in various fields such as film, television, video game development, advertising, and web design. They create animated content using tools like Adobe After Effects, Maya, or Blender and often collaborate with directors, designers, and clients to produce visual storytelling. Many animators also pursue roles in character design, storyboarding, and visual effects production.

Are animators still in demand?

Animator roles continue to be in demand in industries such as entertainment, advertising, and gaming, especially for those skilled in digital tools like Adobe Animate or Maya. The job market favors candidates with strong portfolios, technical proficiency, and adaptability to new animation technologies.

Is animator a well paying job?

Animator salaries vary based on experience, location, and industry, but generally, the median annual wage is above the national average for all occupations. Skilled animators with proficiency in industry-standard tools like Maya or Adobe After Effects and a strong portfolio tend to earn higher salaries, especially in entertainment, advertising, or gaming sectors.

What does an animator do?

An animator is a creative professional who designs and creates moving images for films, television, video games, and other forms of media. They use computer software or traditional hand-drawn techniques to bring characters, objects, and scenes to life. Animators often work closely with other artists, directors, and writers to ensure their animations fit the vision of a project. Their work involves storyboarding, character design, and creating sequences that convey emotion and action. Attention to detail and a strong understanding of movement are essential skills for animators.

What is the difference between Animator vs 3D Modeler?

AspectAnimator3D Modeler
Required CredentialsAnimation courses, portfolio3D modeling courses, portfolio
Work EnvironmentAnimation studios, game companiesDesign studios, game development
Industry UsageBrings characters to life through movementCreates 3D assets and models

While both roles work closely in the animation and gaming industries, an Animator focuses on bringing characters and objects to life through movement, whereas a 3D Modeler specializes in creating the detailed 3D models used in animations and games. Both require similar technical skills and often collaborate on projects, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

What jobs are there for animators?

Animators can work in various fields including film and television production, video game development, advertising, and web design. They create visual effects, character animations, and storyboards using tools like Adobe After Effects, Maya, or Blender, often working in studios or freelance settings. Many roles require a strong portfolio and proficiency in animation software.

What are some typical challenges animators face when working on collaborative projects?

Animators often collaborate with teams of artists, directors, and sound designers, which can present challenges such as maintaining consistent visual style and meeting tight production deadlines. Communication is key, as feedback and revisions are frequent, requiring adaptability and strong interpersonal skills. Additionally, animators need to be proficient in various software and workflows to ensure their work integrates smoothly with other departments, such as modeling or lighting. Balancing creative vision with technical requirements is a common aspect of the role.

What Do Animators Do?

Animators create moving images for television, movies, video games, websites, multimedia platforms, and other forms of media. As an animator, your duties are to design illustrations to match characters and settings described in scripts. Sometimes an animator comes up with a new character before developing a script or role for it, while other times animators work closely with writers to collaborate on character development. After the creation stage, your responsibilities shift to rendering the image for whatever medium you work in, such as feature-length computer animated films or short graphic descriptions of news for an online magazine.

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 motion, timing, and storytelling, often supported by a degree in animation or a related field. Proficiency in animation software such as Adobe After Effects, Autodesk Maya, or Blender, and familiarity with digital drawing tablets are typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help animators collaborate well and bring ideas to life. These skills are vital for producing high-quality, engaging animations that meet project goals and client expectations.
More about Animator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Animator jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Animator jobs in Reston, VA are:
What job categories do people searching Animator jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Animator jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Animator jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Animator job openings:
Animator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animator job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Contract. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,439 per year, or $41.1 per hour.
Instructor or Assistant Professor of Game Design

Instructor or Assistant Professor of Game Design

George Mason University

Fairfax, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

George Mason University rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

108th of 555 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department: Col of Visual and Performing Arts
Classification: 9-month Instructional Faculty
Job Category: Instructional Faculty
Job Type: Full-Time
Work Schedule: N/A - I/R Faculty
Location: Fairfax, VA
Workplace Type: Hybrid Eligible
Salary: Salary commensurate with education and experience
Criminal Background Check: Yes
About the Department:
1. Offers undergraduate game design courses leading to a BFA in Computer Game Design;
2. Provides mentorship and guidance in game production to students pursuing majors and minors in Computer Game Design; and
3. Supports a cohesive faculty and staff to carry out objectives 1 and 2.
About the Position:
Teaches undergraduate Game Design, 3D Modeling, and Animation courses and helps develop this future track in the Computer Game Design Program. Pursues research (traditional or applied) and/or creative endeavors to contribute significantly to the field.
Responsibilities:
  • Teaches undergraduate Game Design, 3D Modeling, and Animation courses;
  • Helps develop this future track in the Computer Game Design Program; and
  • Pursues research (traditional or applied) and/or creative endeavors to contribute significantly to the field.

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in related field;
  • 5+ years experience in Game Design or related industry, or Master's degree in related field;
  • Experienced in all facets of 3D Modeling and Animation for game design and development, including technical, managerial and artistic advances; current research (traditional and applied); and industry developments;
  • Extensive experience working with all primary game design, production, and management software applications, engines, and tools, as well as related hardware;
  • Applicable experience (minimum of five years is desired) in the industry; and expertise using current professional game engines, editors and project management software;
  • Knowledgeable about all facets of 3D Modeling and Animation for game design and development, including technical, managerial and artistic advances; current research (traditional and applied); and industry developments;
  • Extensive knowledge working with all primary game design, game programming, and management software applications, engines, and tools, as well as related hardware;
  • Knowledge of 3D Modeling and animation software utilized in the industry;
  • Knowledge of workflow in multi-platform game production and publication;
  • Excellent interpersonal and presentation skills;
  • Proven critical thinking, problem-solving, and judgment skills;
  • Ability to successfully interact with the industry business and governmental communities;
  • Has a demonstrated commitment and ability to work collaboratively within a complex work environment; and
  • Possesses an approach that fosters a respectful, nonthreatening workplace environment.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in related field;
  • 5+ years experience in the Game Design industry and publication of major entertainment or serious games, or Terminal degree in Game related discipline; and
  • Demonstrated ability working with a diverse population of artists, students, faculty, staff, and community members.

Instructions to Applicants:
For full consideration, applicants must apply for Instructor or Assistant Professor of Game Design at https://jobs.gmu.edu/. Complete and submit the online application to include three professional references with contact information, and provide a Cover Letter/Letter of Intent with Resume for review.
Posting Open Date: August 29, 2025
For Full Consideration, Apply by: September 12, 2025
Open Until Filled: Yes
Mason Ad Statement
George Mason University is a nationally ranked R1 research university committed to creating a more just, free, and prosperous world. With 40,000 enrolled students, George Mason is the largest and most diverse public research university in Virginia, offering degree programs at the master's, doctoral, and professional level, along with certificates and credentials.
George Mason fosters an All Together Different environment for students, faculty, and staff, driven by our core beliefs. We believe in inclusivity over exclusivity; we believe in advancing our mission by being willing to take risks, not avoiding them; and we believe our best work is possible when we apply our diversity of origin, identity, circumstance, and thought.
Equity Statement
George Mason University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, committed to promoting inclusion and equity in its community. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any characteristic protected by law.
Campus Safety Information
Mason's Annual Security and Fire Safety Report is available at http://police.gmu.edu/annual-security-report/

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