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Animator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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. You will collaborate across teams to bring these animations and Ember Lab work to life! Description

M&S Consulting

3D Animator

Pasadena, CA · Remote

The 3D Animator will create high-fidelity, cinematic animations that communicate complex scientific and technical concepts through compelling visual storytelling. This role is ideal for a senior ...

2K

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA · On-site

$124K - $142K/yr

As a Senior Gameplay Animator at Cloud Chamber, you will be part of a remarkably talented team of animators who are tasked with breathing life into the world of BioShock. You will be responsible for ...

The Mill

Designer/Animator

Chicago, IL · On-site

A Designer/Animator needs to be highly visually creative with an excellent knowledge of design techniques and the software and hardware he or she operates. Requirements: * Previous Design Studio ...

The Mill

Designer/Animator

Chicago, IL

A Designer/Animator needs to be highly visually creative with an excellent knowledge of design techniques and the software and hardware he or she operates. Requirements: * Previous Design Studio ...

NetEase Games

FPS 1P View Gameplay Animator

Create high-quality first-person and third-person weapon and tactical animations, including reloads, slides, vaults, weapon inspections, and other combat-related actions, ensuring realistic feel and ...

Roblox

3D Animator (Short Term)

San Mateo, CA · On-site

We're seeking a talented Senior 3D Animator to join our team at Roblox for a 6-month engagement. You'll focus on creating high-quality, foundational character animations for the Roblox platform ...

Ten4

Senior Gaming Animator

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$129K - $148K/yr

Drive animation performance without pushing out of a believable and realistic style; your hand-keyed work will fit seamlessly with motion capture * Join forces with designers and engineers to create ...

Ten4

Senior Gaming Animator

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$129K - $148K/yr

Drive animation performance without pushing out of a believable and realistic style; your hand-keyed work will fit seamlessly with motion capture * Join forces with designers and engineers to create ...

VG Systems

Animator / 3-D Modeler

Huntsville, AL

VG Systems, LLC is seeking a highly skilled Animator / 3-D Modeler to support the development of high-quality visual content for mission-driven initiatives. This role is responsible for creating ...

Insomniac Games

Senior Gameplay Animator (CONTRACT)

OR · On-site +1

$105K - $120K/yr

The Senior Gameplay Animator is responsible for creating gameplay animation at the highest quality level set by Lead Animators and Animation Directors. They collaborate closely with other disciplines ...

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Animator information

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How much do animator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 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?

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.

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.
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Animator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 58% In-person, and 42% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,974 per year, or $39.4 per hour.

Senior Gameplay Animator

Orange, CA • On-site

Ember Lab
Motion Picture and Video Production • 1 - 10 employees
Learn more about Ember Labexternal

$88K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

At Ember Lab, our goal is to create powerful, transformative experiences that impact people for a lifetime. Having released our debut game, Kena: Bridge of Spirits, in 2021 this journey is just beginning. We're looking for collaborative team members who share our passion for storytelling and are eager to help us shape the future of Ember Lab.
We believe a strong, collaborative environment is critical to creating memorable experiences. As a Senior Gameplay Animator, you will conceptualize, design, develop and execute 3D animations. You will collaborate across teams to bring these animations and Ember Lab work to life!
Description
  • Create, test, and iterate on gameplay animations related to combat and interactive events
  • Integrate animations into game project and relevant animation systems
  • Collaborate with the design and engineering teams to ensure animations align with gameplay mechanics and technical constraints.
  • Iterate and refine animations based on feedback from team members and playtesting.
  • Attend to bugs related to tasks and maintain relevant animation features
  • Contribute to the development of animation workflows and tools to streamline the animation process.
  • Stay up-to-date with industry trends and techniques to continually improve the quality of animations.

Requirements
  • 5+ years of gameplay animation experience
  • Strong skills in animating body mechanics and action
  • Excellent Maya animation skills
  • Proficient with animation systems in UE5
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Strong time management skills and ability to meet deadlines
  • Shipped 1+ title
  • Unreal Engine 4 or 5 experience

Location
  • In Office

To Apply
  • Please include a portfolio

Compensation Range
The standard annual base salary range for this role in the U.S. is $88,000 - $120,000 USD. Actual pay will vary depending on experience, qualifications, performance and location. The base salary range for locations outside of the U.S. will be adjusted according to location.
At Ember Lab, we like to keep things professional and straightforward when it comes to hiring. All of our recruitment happens through official channels like an Ember Lab email, our recruitment platform BambooHR, or LinkedIn.
If you ever get a message from someone claiming to be us through an unexpected or suspicious platform, it's probably not legit-feel free to ignore it or give us a heads-up at contact@emberlab.com.
We've got your back when it comes to keeping the process safe and secure!

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