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Cinematic Animator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AlphaSense

Senior Motion Designer

$108K - $123K/yr

As the Sr. Motion Designer on the AlphaSense Brand & Creative team, you will be the bridge between high-end cinematic motion and the future of AI-driven production. You aren't just an animator; you ...

Epic Games

Cinematics Director

Cary, NC · On-site

We have been shaping Fortnite's cinematic narrative for nearly a decade, and we are looking for ... Collaborate with the Animation Director to direct motion capture sessions and oversee scene ...

Naughty Dog

Cinematics Editor

Santa Monica, CA

Collaborating with the editorial, animation, and production teams to keep scenes moving forward through our cinematic pipeline * Deliver locked cinematics to animation. Process face orders, body ...

Skydance

Story Artist

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$2.3K - $4.2K/wk

At Skydance Animation, we are seeking experienced Story Artists in a f reelance or full-time ... Through dynamic staging, cinematic composition, expressive acting, and strong pacing, you will help ...

DePaul

Adjunct Faculty in Illustration

Chicago, IL · On-site

The School of Cinematic Arts (SCA) offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs incluuding Film and Television, Animation, Creative Producing, Documentary, and Screenwriting on the Loop ...

MrBeast

Editor, Vertical Platforms

Greenville, NC · On-site

Adding creative flair: animations, transitions, music, and sound design to enhance the viewing ... Strong sense of cinematic storytelling (music, sound design, drama pacing) * Prior work with ...

Naughty Dog

Cinematics Editor

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$36.25 - $54.32/hr

Collaborating with the editorial, animation, and production teams to keep scenes moving forward through our cinematic pipeline * Deliver locked cinematics to animation. Process face orders, body ...

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How much do cinematic animator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for cinematic 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.

Does Netflix hire animators?

Netflix hires animators for its original animated films and series, often seeking candidates with skills in 3D modeling, character animation, and proficiency in tools like Maya or Blender. The company typically looks for applicants with relevant experience, a strong portfolio, and sometimes animation or related degrees. Job openings are posted on their careers page and may require collaboration with cross-disciplinary teams in a fast-paced environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Cinematic Animator position, and why are they important?

Cinematic Animators require advanced skills in character animation, storytelling, and a solid understanding of cinematography principles, often supported by a degree in animation or a related field. Proficiency with industry-standard software like Autodesk Maya, MotionBuilder, or Unreal Engine, as well as familiarity with motion capture systems, is commonly expected. Creativity, attention to detail, strong collaboration, and the ability to take direction are standout soft skills in this role. Mastery of these areas ensures the animator can effectively translate scripts and storyboards into emotionally engaging, visually compelling cinematic sequences that enhance a project's narrative.

What does a cinematic animator do?

A cinematic animator creates animated sequences for films, video games, or visual effects, focusing on storytelling, character movement, and scene composition. They use software like Maya or Blender and often collaborate with directors and artists to produce visually compelling content. Strong skills in animation principles, timing, and attention to detail are essential for this role.

What is the highest paid animation job?

The highest paid animation jobs are typically senior roles such as Lead Animator, Animation Director, or VFX Supervisor, especially in large studios or film production companies. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced skills in software like Maya or Houdini, and leadership responsibilities, with salaries reaching six figures or more annually.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Cinematic Animator?

As a Cinematic Animator, your daily work typically involves creating and refining animated sequences that drive a project’s narrative, often working with storyboards and collaborating closely with directors, writers, and other animators. You’ll use tools like Maya or Unreal Engine to animate characters, block out scenes, and integrate feedback to achieve the desired emotional impact and visual storytelling. Tasks may also include attending review meetings, revising animations based on client or director notes, and ensuring seamless integration with audio and other visual effects. This fast-paced, collaborative environment helps animators continually develop their technical and artistic skills, making each day dynamic and creatively rewarding.

What is a Cinematic Animator job?

A Cinematic Animator creates high-quality animated sequences for video games, films, or other media, focusing on storytelling, character movement, and camera work. They use keyframe animation or motion capture data to bring scenes to life, ensuring they are visually engaging and emotionally impactful. Working closely with directors, designers, and other animators, they refine animations to match the project's artistic and narrative vision.

Does Disney still hire 2D animators?

Disney Animation Studios continues to hire 2D animators, especially for projects that involve traditional hand-drawn animation or hybrid techniques. While the industry has shifted toward 3D animation, there is still demand for skilled 2D animators with strong drawing skills and proficiency in software like Toon Boom or TVPaint. Job opportunities may vary based on project needs and studio focus.
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Cinematic Animator jobs near you

Unreal Engine Rendering & Cinematics Specialist

Together Group

Sarasota, FL

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

At Imerza, we are pioneers in architectural visualization software, specializing in digital twins and real-estate marketing. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, we transform concepts into breathtaking, immersive experiences. We're seeking a talented Unreal Engine Rendering & Cinematics Specialist to drive the creation of high-quality cinematic sequences, high-resolution still images, and optimized rendering pipelines for our Archviz projects.

This position is based in Sarasota, FL. Candidates who can work onsite or are willing to relocate are strongly preferred.

Job Summary:

We are looking for an Unreal Engine Rendering & Cinematics Specialist with expertise in crafting cinematic video content, high-resolution still images, and optimized rendering pipelines. In this role, you will produce visually stunning cinematics and photorealistic renders using Unreal Engine, streamline rendering workflows, and ensure exceptional quality for architectural visualization projects. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver immersive digital experiences that captivate clients.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Create high-quality cinematic sequences and photorealistic still images using Unreal Engine for architectural visualization projects.
  • Design and optimize rendering pipelines for both real-time and offline rendering, ensuring efficiency and visual fidelity.
  • Leverage Unreal Engine's Sequencer, Blueprints, and Material Editor to produce polished cinematic content and high-resolution renders.
  • Implement advanced rendering techniques, such as ray tracing, Lumen, and post-processing, to achieve photorealistic results.
  • Collaborate with artists, technical producers, and developers to align cinematic and rendering outputs with project goals and technical requirements.
  • Troubleshoot rendering and cinematic production issues, ensuring optimal performance across platforms (PC, VR/AR, and cloud-based delivery).
  • Develop and integrate automation scripts to enhance rendering and cinematics workflows.
  • Stay current with Unreal Engine advancements and industry trends to incorporate cutting-edge rendering and cinematic techniques.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Game Design, Computer Graphics, Animation, Computer Science, or a related field.
  • Proven experience in Unreal Engine, specializing in cinematic production, high-resolution rendering, or rendering pipeline development.
  • Advanced proficiency in Unreal Engine tools, including Sequencer, Blueprints, Niagara, and rendering features like ray tracing and Lumen.
  • Strong understanding of cinematic production, including camera animation, lighting, and post-processing for video and still outputs.
  • Experience with scripting languages (e.g., Python, C++) for pipeline automation and tool development.
  • Familiarity with version control systems (e.g., Perforce, Git) and asset management workflows.
  • Exceptional attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
Nice to Haves:
  • Experience in architectural visualization, digital twins, or real-estate marketing.
  • Knowledge of Autodesk tools (e.g., 3ds Max, Revit) and BIM workflows for architectural data integration.
  • Expertise in VR/AR rendering or cloud-based rendering solutions.
  • Familiarity with color grading, advanced lighting design, or cinematic post-production techniques.
How to Apply:

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. This position is based in Sarasota, FL. Candidates who can work onsite or are willing to relocate are strongly preferred.

Please submit your resume/CV, cover letter, and a link to your portfolio showcasing Unreal Engine projects, including cinematic sequences, high-resolution stills, or rendering pipeline work, to Careers@imerza.com. We're excited to see your expertise and creativity in elevating our cinematic and rendering projects!

Imerza is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. Imerza is a participant in E-Verify.

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