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Character Animation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Evil Eye Pictures

Senior Unreal Animator

San Jose, CA · Remote

$40 - $65/hr

Experience keyframing character animation and working with motion capture data * Ability to collaborate and take direction from creative leads and the narrative team * Ability to work independently ...

Evil Eye Pictures

Senior Unreal Animator

San Mateo, CA · Remote

$40 - $65/hr

Experience keyframing character animation and working with motion capture data * Ability to collaborate and take direction from creative leads and the narrative team * Ability to work independently ...

Evil Eye Pictures

Senior Unreal Animator

Mundelein, IL · Remote

$40 - $65/hr

Experience keyframing character animation and working with motion capture data * Ability to collaborate and take direction from creative leads and the narrative team * Ability to work independently ...

Evil Eye Pictures

Senior Unreal Animator

Alameda, CA · Remote

$40 - $65/hr

Experience keyframing character animation and working with motion capture data * Ability to collaborate and take direction from creative leads and the narrative team * Ability to work independently ...

Evil Eye Pictures

Senior Unreal Animator

Sonoma, CA · Remote

$40 - $65/hr

Experience keyframing character animation and working with motion capture data * Ability to collaborate and take direction from creative leads and the narrative team * Ability to work independently ...

CD PROJEKT RED

Senior Animation Programmer

Boston, MA · On-site +1

$118K - $217K/yr

Developing bespoke animation systems and extensions for Unreal 5 animation systems to support character locomotion & lifelike behaviors, object & world interaction, large animated crowds, and more.

Evil Eye Pictures

Senior Unreal Animator

Santa Rosa, CA · Remote

$40 - $65/hr

Experience keyframing character animation and working with motion capture data * Ability to collaborate and take direction from creative leads and the narrative team * Ability to work independently ...

Evil Eye Pictures

Senior Unreal Animator

Santa Clara, CA · Remote

$40 - $65/hr

Experience keyframing character animation and working with motion capture data * Ability to collaborate and take direction from creative leads and the narrative team * Ability to work independently ...

Flying Bark Productions

3D Animation Lead

Denver, NC · On-site +1

Flying Bark Productions is a dynamic and innovative animation studio dedicated to pushing the boundaries of character animation and storytelling. We are working on exciting projects such as Avatar:

CD PROJEKT RED

Senior Animation Programmer

Boston, MA · On-site +1

$118K - $217K/yr

Developing bespoke animation systems and extensions for Unreal 5 animation systems to support character locomotion & lifelike behaviors, object & world interaction, large animated crowds, and more.

CD PROJEKT RED

Senior Animation Programmer

Boston, MA · On-site +1

Developing bespoke animation systems and extensions for Unreal 5 animation systems to support character locomotion & lifelike behaviors, object & world interaction, large animated crowds, and more.

Ten4

Senior Gaming Animator

Redwood City, CA

$129K - $148K/yr

College/University Degree in Character Animation or similar * Full comprehension of camera, layout, and stagingS * Self-directed and independent worker Major Plus: * Excellent hand-keyed facial ...

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Character Animation information

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$10

$19

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How much do character animation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for character animation in the United States is $19.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Will AI replace animators?

AI can automate certain repetitive tasks in character animation, such as in-betweening and motion capture processing, but it is unlikely to fully replace animators. Skilled animators are needed to create creative, expressive, and nuanced performances that AI tools currently cannot replicate entirely. The role of character animators will evolve to incorporate AI as a tool to enhance productivity and creativity.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Character Animator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Character Animator, you need a strong understanding of animation principles, storytelling, and anatomy, often supported by a degree in animation or a related field. Proficiency with industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, or Adobe After Effects, as well as familiarity with rigging and motion capture, is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong collaboration skills help animators bring characters to life and work effectively within production teams. These skills and qualities are essential for creating engaging, believable animations that meet both artistic vision and production deadlines.

What art-related jobs are about $80,000 a year?

In the field of character animation, senior roles such as Lead Animator or Animation Director often earn around $80,000 or more annually, especially with experience and in larger studios. These positions typically require strong skills in software like Maya or Blender, a solid portfolio, and often involve overseeing projects or teams. Salaries can vary based on location, company size, and individual experience.

Does Disney hire animators?

Yes, Disney hires character animators to work on their animated films and projects. These roles typically require strong drawing skills, proficiency in animation software like Maya or Toon Boom, and a portfolio demonstrating animation ability. Disney often looks for candidates with relevant education and experience in animation or related fields.

How do character animators typically collaborate with other departments during a production?

Character animators frequently work closely with modelers, riggers, storyboard artists, and directors to ensure that animated characters move and emote consistently with the project’s vision. Regular meetings and feedback sessions are common, allowing animators to address notes from the creative team and make necessary adjustments. This collaborative environment helps maintain continuity and quality, and also provides opportunities for animators to learn from other disciplines and contribute creatively to the storytelling process.

What is the difference between Character Animation vs 3D Modeler?

AspectCharacter Animation3D Modeler
Primary FocusCreating movement and performance for charactersDesigning and building 3D models, including characters
Skills NeededAnimation principles, timing, riggingModeling, topology, texturing
Work EnvironmentAnimation studios, game companies, film productionVFX studios, game development, animation studios
Common CertificationsAnimation courses, rigging and character setup3D modeling certifications, software proficiency

While both roles involve working with 3D assets, Character Animation focuses on bringing characters to life through movement, whereas 3D Modelers create the detailed models that serve as the foundation for animation. Understanding these differences helps professionals choose the right career path or skill development focus.

What does a Character Animator do?

A Character Animator creates and brings to life digital characters through movement, facial expressions, and gestures using animation software such as Maya or Adobe Animate. They work closely with storyboards, voice actors, and directors to ensure characters convey the intended emotions and actions, often working within tight deadlines in a collaborative environment.

What is character animation?

Character animation is the process of bringing animated characters to life using movement and expression. Animators use digital tools or traditional techniques to create believable motions, gestures, and facial expressions that convey a character’s personality and emotions. This field is essential in industries such as film, television, video games, and advertising. Character animators collaborate closely with other artists and directors to ensure characters fit seamlessly into the story and environment. The work requires creativity, attention to detail, and a strong understanding of human and animal movement.
More about Character Animation jobs
What cities are hiring for Character Animation jobs? Cities with the most Character Animation job openings:
What states have the most Character Animation jobs? States with the most job openings for Character Animation jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Character Animation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Character Animation jobs are:
Character Animation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Character Animation job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 69% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 27% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,680 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Freelance Toon Boom Animator-YouTube Studio

Newscape Studios

Kyle, TX • Remote

Contractor

Posted 11 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

Job Summary

Newscape Studios, Inc has a dozen YouTube channels, with over 10 million total subscribers. We create content based on popular video games such as Fortnite, Minecraft, and original animations. Newscape also produces a vast array of videos for a young audience and content through animation and machinima.

We are looking to add Freelance Cutout / Rigged Character Animators in Toon Boom Harmony to our team. Candidates must have substantial knowledge of Animation fundamentals, using Toonboom Harmony along with their node systems as well strong draftmanship.
Animation channels to match style of: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCToxKVrkEuAONR4rFIJ_DyQ 

Responsibilities and Duties: 

  • Keep an organized and efficient workflow that balances quality and output needs.
  • Responsible for approximately 25 shots / 2 and half minutes of animation per week.
  • Expert level cutout/rigged character animation in Toon Boom Harmony
  • Navigation of and clear understanding of Toon boon node view and tools
  • Light compositing work in Harmony (lighting and some effects) 
  • Strong draftmanship creating assets, poses and drawing subs
  • Simple to Moderate level frame by frame / hand animation

Qualifications and Skills:

  • 2+ years required experience with Toon Boom Harmony 
  • 1+ years of studio production experience
  • Animators must be able to adapt to a variety of styles
  • Must be able to work as part of a team
  • Strong literacy with written, verbal and storyboard notes
  • Communicate effectively 
  • Great listening skills 
  • Great time management skills 
  • Comfortable in meeting deadlines and daily quotas 
  • Strong attention to detail and consistency  
 

Demo Reel/ Portfolio is required to be considered. 

Compensation:

Competitive base pay of: $880 per production week 

This is a remote / work from home, Independent Contractor Position. 

Artists with LLCs are preferred but not required.
If you receive an email from Newscapeprocareers.com this is a scam. Newscape Studios will not email questionnaires, ask for any personal information such as SS #, address, or bank account information or present a  job offer without a face to face interview with our supervisors and/or Human Resources.  If you receive an email from newscapeprocareers.com, please report to the authorities.  Be careful of scams

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