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Associate Animator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

VG Systems

Animator / 3-D Modeler

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Substitution 1: Associate's degree in 3-D Modeling, Animation, or a related arts discipline with 7 years of experience providing creative animation and modeling support on a DoD or commercial ...

VG Systems

Animator / 3-D Modeler

Huntsville, AL

Substitution 1: Associate's degree in 3-D Modeling, Animation, or a related arts discipline with 7 years of experience providing creative animation and modeling support on a DoD or commercial ...

VG Systems

Animator / 3-D Modeler

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Substitution 1: Associate's degree in 3-D Modeling, Animation, or a related arts discipline with 7 years of experience providing creative animation and modeling support on a DoD or commercial ...

Madison College

PT Instructor Pool - Animation

Madison, WI · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

To instruct adult students in Animation - Concept Development at the vocational, associate degree ... This position reports to the Associate Dean - Business and Applied Arts. Essential Duties: The ...

1000heads

Associate Motion Director

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$120K - $160K/yr

While animation expertise is a big plus, a deep understanding of animation principles and how to ... As Associate Motion Director, you'll play a key role in shaping how brands show up across digital ...

1000heads

Associate Motion Director

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$120K - $160K/yr

While animation expertise is a big plus, a deep understanding of animation principles and how to ... As Associate Motion Director, you'll play a key role in shaping how brands show up across digital ...

Skydance Media

Associate Costume Designer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$92.30 - $103.32/hr

Santa Monica, Los Angeles Skydance Animation Skydance Animation is seeking an Associate Costume Designer to join the studio's Costume Department. Reporting to the Head of Costume Design, the ...

1000heads

Associate Motion Director

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

$120K - $160K/yr

Summary Associate Motion Director with a strong foundation in motion design and a keen eye for ... While animation expertise is a big plus, a deep understanding of animation principles and how to ...

1000heads

Associate Motion Director

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

$120K - $160K/yr

Summary Associate Motion Director with a strong foundation in motion design and a keen eye for ... While animation expertise is a big plus, a deep understanding of animation principles and how to ...

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Associate Animator information

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How much do associate animator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate 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 is an associate animator?

An Associate Animator is an entry-level role in animation, responsible for creating and refining animations for games, films, or other media. They work under senior animators to develop character movements, environment animations, and special effects. Their tasks may include keyframing, rigging, and refining motion to ensure smooth and realistic animations. Strong proficiency in animation software like Maya, Blender, or After Effects is typically required. This role serves as a foundation for advancing to higher-level animation positions.

What does an associate animator do?

A typical day for an Associate Animator involves collaborating closely with senior animators, designers, and project managers to create and refine animation assets according to project requirements. You may spend time blocking out animation sequences, participating in team reviews, and revising your work based on feedback. Daily tasks often include working in software like Maya or After Effects, attending team meetings to discuss progress, and tracking deliverables to meet production deadlines. This role provides a valuable opportunity to learn from experienced professionals and gradually take on more complex animation assignments as your skills grow.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an associate animator?

To thrive as an Associate Animator, you need a solid understanding of animation principles, artistic design, and a relevant degree or certification in animation, graphic design, or a related field. Proficiency in industry-standard tools such as Adobe Creative Suite, Maya, or Blender is typically required. Strong teamwork, time management, and open communication skills make candidates stand out in collaborative production environments. These skills are vital for meeting project goals, delivering high-quality animations, and contributing effectively to creative teams.

Is 30 too late to become an associate animator?

Age is not a strict barrier to becoming an associate animator, as many professionals enter the field later in life. Success depends on developing relevant skills such as drawing, animation software proficiency, and building a strong portfolio, regardless of age.

What can you do with an associate animator's degree in animation?

An associate animator's degree prepares individuals for entry-level animation roles such as 2D or 3D animator, character animator, or motion graphics artist. Graduates can work in entertainment, advertising, or gaming industries, often using tools like Adobe Animate, Maya, or Blender, and may need a strong portfolio to secure employment.
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Associate Animator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Animator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,974 per year, or $39.4 per hour.

Animator / 3-D Modeler

VG Systems

Huntsville, AL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Description
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 original 3-D models, environments, and animated sequences using advanced digital tools and imaginative techniques. The position requires strong technical expertise, creativity, and the ability to produce complex visual compositions that effectively communicate technical and strategic concepts.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
  • Develop professional-quality 3-D models, environments, and animated sequences using specialized software applications.
  • Apply original concepts and creative approaches to produce visually compelling and technically accurate animations.
  • Determine appropriate model fidelity, animation techniques, and special effects based on project requirements.
  • Execute complex compositions using advanced visual techniques and software capabilities.
  • Interpret technical and strategic messages into dynamic visual content suitable for high-visibility deliverables.
  • Create animations and models that represent both concrete subject matter and abstract concepts.
  • Work efficiently to deliver high-quality finished products within established timelines.
  • Adapt methods and techniques based on the intended use and desired outcomes of each project.
  • Support the development of visual products for presentations, briefings, and other organizational needs.
  • Collaborate with team members and stakeholders to ensure alignment with project goals and requirements.
  • Create, maintain, and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) related to animation and 3-D modeling workflows.
  • Ensure SOPs remain current and accurately reflect tools, processes, and production standards.
  • Document procedures and provide guidance to ensure consistency and compliance.

Requirements:
  • Active Secret security clearance is required (must have at time of hire).
  • Proficiency in 3-D modeling and animation software (e.g., Maya, Blender, 3ds Max, or similar tools).
  • Strong understanding of animation principles, modeling techniques, and visual composition.
  • Ability to translate technical or abstract concepts into engaging visual content.
  • Experience producing high-quality animations and models under tight deadlines.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to delivering polished products.
  • Effective communication and collaboration skills.

Education/Experience:
  • Minimum: Bachelor's degree (BA/BS) in 3-D Modeling, Animation, or a related arts discipline with 5 years of experience providing creative, high-quality animation and modeling support on a DoD or commercial contract.
  • Substitution 1: Associate's degree in 3-D Modeling, Animation, or a related arts discipline with 7 years of experience providing creative animation and modeling support on a DoD or commercial contract.
  • No additional substitutions are authorized.

HUBZone Preference:
VG Systems, LLC gives preference to candidates who reside in a designated HUBZone. Selected candidates must be able to sign a HUBZone attestation and provide required SBA documentation upon hiring.
Equal Opportunity Statement:
VG Systems, LLC does not discriminate based on race, sex, color, religion, age, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other reason prohibited by law in the provision

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