Lead the design and execution of performance animation for key story sequences and interactive cinematics, overseeing facial performances, dialogue scenes, and action-driven performances to ensure ...
Lead the design and execution of performance animation for key story sequences and interactive cinematics, overseeing facial performances, dialogue scenes, and action-driven performances to ensure ...
2D Animator
Dallas, TX · On-site
$45 - $75/hr
* Excellent knowledge in Spine Animations; * Strong experience with After Effects; * Passion for art and Gaming; * Relevant and consistent portfolio; * Gambling/slots animation experience. FUNCTIONS
2D Animator
Dallas, TX · On-site
$45 - $75/hr
* Excellent knowledge in Spine Animations; * Strong experience with After Effects; * Passion for art and Gaming; * Relevant and consistent portfolio; * Gambling/slots animation experience. FUNCTIONS
ILM Immersive Technical Animator
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$101.30 - $126.60/hr
Job Summary We are looking for a Technical Animator who reflects the innovative spirit, creative talent, production excellence, collaborative mindset and passion for great storytelling that defines ...
ILM Immersive Technical Animator
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$101.30 - $126.60/hr
Job Summary We are looking for a Technical Animator who reflects the innovative spirit, creative talent, production excellence, collaborative mindset and passion for great storytelling that defines ...
As our Lead Animator , you'll be accountable for how our game moves and how our animation discipline grows. You'll set vision, mentor artists, evolve pipelines, and hold the quality bar high for a ...
As our Lead Animator , you'll be accountable for how our game moves and how our animation discipline grows. You'll set vision, mentor artists, evolve pipelines, and hold the quality bar high for a ...
Advanced Animator
Las Vegas, NV · On-site
$90 - $120/hr
Work with a group of exceptionally talented artists and animators creating animations that complement and enhance the slot player's experience. The ability to work quickly and efficiently as part of ...
Advanced Animator
Las Vegas, NV · On-site
$90 - $120/hr
Work with a group of exceptionally talented artists and animators creating animations that complement and enhance the slot player's experience. The ability to work quickly and efficiently as part of ...
Technical Animator / Rigger
Atlanta, GA · On-site
$70 - $110/hr
The Technical Animator / Rigger will design, build, and maintain character and creature rigs for animation across animation, comics-related media, and games. Day-to-day responsibilities include ...
Technical Animator / Rigger
Atlanta, GA · On-site
$70 - $110/hr
The Technical Animator / Rigger will design, build, and maintain character and creature rigs for animation across animation, comics-related media, and games. Day-to-day responsibilities include ...
Work with a group of exceptionally talented artists and animators creating animations that complement and enhance the slot player's experience. The ability to work quickly and efficiently as part of ...
Work with a group of exceptionally talented artists and animators creating animations that complement and enhance the slot player's experience. The ability to work quickly and efficiently as part of ...
Advanced Animator
Las Vegas, NV · On-site
Work with a group of exceptionally talented artists and animators creating animations that complement and enhance the slot player's experience. The ability to work quickly and efficiently as part of ...
Advanced Animator
Las Vegas, NV · On-site
Work with a group of exceptionally talented artists and animators creating animations that complement and enhance the slot player's experience. The ability to work quickly and efficiently as part of ...
Core Animator
Duluth, GA · On-site
$60 - $90/hr
Core Animator Full Time Duluth, GA, US 5 days ago Requisition ID: 1087 Eclipse Gaming Systems is an award-winning company that develops best in class slot games for the Native American gaming market.
Core Animator
Duluth, GA · On-site
$60 - $90/hr
Core Animator Full Time Duluth, GA, US 5 days ago Requisition ID: 1087 Eclipse Gaming Systems is an award-winning company that develops best in class slot games for the Native American gaming market.
Lead Gameplay Animator
Irvine, CA · On-site +1
As our Lead Animator , you'll be accountable for how our game moves and how our animation discipline grows. You'll set vision, mentor artists, evolve pipelines, and hold the quality bar high for a ...
Lead Gameplay Animator
Irvine, CA · On-site +1
As our Lead Animator , you'll be accountable for how our game moves and how our animation discipline grows. You'll set vision, mentor artists, evolve pipelines, and hold the quality bar high for a ...
2d Animator
Rochester, NY · On-site
We are looking for a Lead 2d Animator. Main duties of the job are designing assets, sketching, creating large animations, maintaining style, making vector graphics, and more. Knowledge of Adobe ...
2d Animator
Rochester, NY · On-site
We are looking for a Lead 2d Animator. Main duties of the job are designing assets, sketching, creating large animations, maintaining style, making vector graphics, and more. Knowledge of Adobe ...
The Animator is responsible for designing and creating the motion of computer graphics characters. This role will help lead the development of animation assets to support the execution of the overall ...
The Animator is responsible for designing and creating the motion of computer graphics characters. This role will help lead the development of animation assets to support the execution of the overall ...
Animator II
Reno, NV · Hybrid
Hybrid in Reno, NV What You Will Do As Animator, you will create dynamic 2D animations for characters, environments, and special effects, bringing games to life with engaging visual storytelling. You ...
Animator II
Reno, NV · Hybrid
Hybrid in Reno, NV What You Will Do As Animator, you will create dynamic 2D animations for characters, environments, and special effects, bringing games to life with engaging visual storytelling. You ...
CINEMATICS CUTSCENE ANIMATOR
Bellevue, WA · On-site
$70 - $110/hr
CINEMATICS ANIMATOR - CutscenesRole Overview Location: United States (Remote) Work Type: Contract We are seeking a Cinematics Animator for a contract role focused on delivering high-quality character ...
CINEMATICS CUTSCENE ANIMATOR
Bellevue, WA · On-site
$70 - $110/hr
CINEMATICS ANIMATOR - CutscenesRole Overview Location: United States (Remote) Work Type: Contract We are seeking a Cinematics Animator for a contract role focused on delivering high-quality character ...
Senior Technical Animator
Las Vegas, NV · On-site +1
$101K - $115K/yr
SpinPlay Games is looking for a Technical Animator who enjoys solving technical challenges just as much as creating exceptional animation. This role sits at the intersection of art, design, and ...
Quick apply
Senior Technical Animator
Las Vegas, NV · On-site +1
$101K - $115K/yr
SpinPlay Games is looking for a Technical Animator who enjoys solving technical challenges just as much as creating exceptional animation. This role sits at the intersection of art, design, and ...
Expression of Interest - Animator
Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1
The Animator is responsible for designing and creating the motion of computer graphics characters. This role will help lead the development of animation assets to support the execution of the overall ...
Expression of Interest - Animator
Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1
The Animator is responsible for designing and creating the motion of computer graphics characters. This role will help lead the development of animation assets to support the execution of the overall ...
Animator II
Reno, NV · Hybrid
Hybrid in Reno, NV What You Will Do As Animator, you will create dynamic 2D animations for characters, environments, and special effects, bringing games to life with engaging visual storytelling. You ...
Animator II
Reno, NV · Hybrid
Hybrid in Reno, NV What You Will Do As Animator, you will create dynamic 2D animations for characters, environments, and special effects, bringing games to life with engaging visual storytelling. You ...
Core Animator
Duluth, GA · On-site
Collaborate with mathematicians, animators, designers and product managers to implement game elements based on design documentations and gameplay feedback * Develop and deliver exciting animations to ...
Quick apply
Core Animator
Duluth, GA · On-site
Collaborate with mathematicians, animators, designers and product managers to implement game elements based on design documentations and gameplay feedback * Develop and deliver exciting animations to ...
Animator II
Reno, NV · On-site
$110 - $135/hr
As Animator, you will create dynamic 2D animations for characters, environments, and special effects, bringing games to life with engaging visual storytelling. You will collaborate closely with the ...
Animator II
Reno, NV · On-site
$110 - $135/hr
As Animator, you will create dynamic 2D animations for characters, environments, and special effects, bringing games to life with engaging visual storytelling. You will collaborate closely with the ...
Senior Animator
Novato, CA · On-site
$90K - $135K/yr
Cloud Chamber is looking for a Senior Animator to help us breathe life into a new and fantastical world. Your primary responsibility will be the creation of exemplary animations. We need you to set ...
Senior Animator
Novato, CA · On-site
$90K - $135K/yr
Cloud Chamber is looking for a Senior Animator to help us breathe life into a new and fantastical world. Your primary responsibility will be the creation of exemplary animations. We need you to set ...
Animator information
See salary details
$15.67 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$10.58 - $16
27% of jobs
$16 - $21.42
0% of jobs
$21.42 - $26.84
19% of jobs
The median wage is $28.50 / hr.
$26.84 - $32.26
14% of jobs
$32.26 - $37.67
4% of jobs
$37.67 - $43.09
0% of jobs
$43.09 - $48.51
0% of jobs
$48.51 - $53.93
0% of jobs
$59.11 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$53.93 - $59.35
12% of jobs
$59.35 - $64.77
6% of jobs
$64.77 - $70.19
18% of jobs
$10
$39
$70
How much do animator jobs pay per hour?
As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for animator 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 does an animator 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.
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 is the difference between Animator vs 3D Modeler?
| Aspect | Animator | 3D Modeler |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | Animation courses, portfolio | 3D modeling courses, portfolio |
| Work Environment | Animation studios, game companies | Design studios, game development |
| Industry Usage | Brings characters to life through movement | Creates 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.
Are animators still in demand?
Animator roles remain in demand in industries such as entertainment, gaming, and advertising, especially for those skilled in digital tools like Adobe Animate or Maya. The job market values creativity, technical skills, and the ability to adapt to new animation technologies, with opportunities available for both freelance and full-time positions.
How do I get a job as an animator?
To get a job as an animator, develop a strong portfolio showcasing your work, gain proficiency in animation software such as Adobe After Effects or Maya, and obtain relevant education or training in animation or related fields. Internships and entry-level positions can provide experience and industry connections, while networking and continuous skill development improve job prospects.
What kind of jobs can animators get?
Animators can work in various fields including film, television, video games, advertising, and web content. They create animated visuals using tools like Adobe After Effects, Maya, or Blender and may specialize in 2D or 3D animation, character design, or visual effects. Job roles include character animator, storyboard artist, motion graphics artist, and visual effects artist.
More about Animator jobs
What cities are hiring for Animator jobs?
Cities with the most Animator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Animator jobs?
The most popular types of Animator jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Animator jobs?
The top employers for Animator jobs are:
What states have the most Animator jobs?
States with the most job openings for Animator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Animator jobs look for?
The top searched job categories for Animator jobs are:
Full-time
Re-posted 20 days ago
Job description
About NetEase Games:
As a leading internet technology company based in China, NetEase, Inc. (NASDAQ: NTES and HKEX:9999, "NetEase") provides premium online services centered around content creation. With extensive offerings across its expanding gaming ecosystem, the Company develops and operates some of China's most popular and longest-running mobile and PC games. Powered by industry-leading in-house R&D capabilities in China and globally, NetEase creates superior gaming experiences, inspires players, and passionately delivers value for its thriving community worldwide. By infusing play with culture and education with technology, NetEase transforms gaming into a meaningful vehicle to build a more entertaining and enlightened world.
NetEase's ESG initiatives are among the best in the global media and entertainment industry, earning it a distinction as one of the S&P Global Industry Movers and an "A" rating from MSCI. For more information, please visit:Â http://ir.netease.com/
Responsibilities:
Lead the design and execution of performance animation for key story sequences and interactive cinematics, overseeing facial performances, dialogue scenes, and action-driven performances to ensure emotional authenticity and cinematic quality.
Collaborate closely with Art, Design, and Engineering teams to establish and maintain production pipelines and quality standards for performance animation, ensuring consistency in character emotions and visual storytelling.
Define production guidelines and animation standards for facial performances, dialogue scenes, and character acting, driving scalable and efficient content creation workflows while continuously improving quality and productivity.
Leverage experience from the film and game industries to optimize motion capture and keyframe animation pipelines, solve technical challenges, and enhance the overall quality and expressiveness of character performances.
Requirements:
Bachelor's degree or above in Animation, Film, Directing, Digital Media Arts, or related disciplines preferred.
3+ years of experience as an Animation Director, Action Director, Performance Animator, or related role in the film or game industry. Candidates must provide portfolio examples demonstrating both action-oriented and subtle dramatic performances.
Deep understanding of cinematic language, character acting, and emotional storytelling. Ability to independently deliver high-quality performances ranging from facial animation and dialogue scenes to action-driven sequences.
Proficiency in motion capture data processing, keyframe animation, and in-engine performance integration. Ability to solve technical challenges throughout the animation production pipeline.
Strong cross-functional collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with Art, Design, and Engineering teams to drive production standards and pipeline execution.
Strong industrialized production mindset. Experience establishing animation standards, optimizing workflows, and improving team-wide delivery quality is highly preferred.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced production environment. Prior experience in film production studios or cinematic teams is a plus.