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Computer Animation Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Character Artist

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$142K - $149K/yr

Human Computer Lab is a research lab building character robots that feel alive and responsive. Our ... Are pursuing a degree in screen-writing, animation, character design, industrial design, or a ...

Adjunct Faculty DAA

San Jose, CA ยท On-site

$3.0K - $4.5K/mo

Skilled in storyboarding, digital painting, rigging, modeling and 2D animation * Strong computer skills including the ability to collect and analyze information. * Competent in a wide variety of ...

Showing results 21-40

Computer Animation information

See California salary details

$10

$38

$69

How much do computer animation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for computer animation in California is $38.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.59 and $63.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is computer animation?

A Computer Animation job involves creating moving images and visual effects using computer software. Animators work in industries like film, television, video games, and advertising to bring characters, environments, and objects to life. They use techniques such as 2D animation, 3D modeling, rigging, and motion capture. The role often requires creativity, technical skills, and proficiency in industry-standard software like Maya, Blender, or Adobe After Effects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in computer animation?

To thrive in Computer Animation, you need a strong foundation in 3D modeling, animation principles, and a keen artistic eye, typically supported by a degree in animation, visual arts, or a related field. Mastery of industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, and Adobe After Effects, along with a robust digital portfolio, is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective collaboration make candidates stand out in this profession. These skills ensure the creation of compelling animations that meet client or studio standards and contribute to successful project outcomes.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in computer animation?

Computer animators often encounter tight deadlines, rapidly changing project requirements, and the need to continuously update their technical skills as software evolves. Working as part of a creative team, animators must adapt their personal style to match the project's vision and collaborate closely with directors, designers, and programmers. Handling feedback constructively and managing workload during peak production times are also common challenges. However, these aspects of the job can foster growth, creativity, and resilience in a dynamic and rewarding field.

Is computer animation a good career?

Computer animation is a viable career that involves creating visual effects and animated content using software like Maya or Blender. It requires strong artistic skills, technical knowledge, and often a portfolio or certification; job opportunities are available in entertainment, advertising, and gaming industries. The field can offer creative fulfillment and competitive salaries, but it also demands continuous learning and adaptation to new tools and technologies.

What jobs can I get with a computer animation degree?

A computer animation degree can lead to roles such as 3D animator, character animator, visual effects artist, motion graphics designer, and game designer. These jobs typically require proficiency with software like Maya, Blender, or Adobe After Effects and may involve working in film, television, gaming, or advertising industries.

What kind of jobs can computer animators get?

Computer animators can work in industries such as film, television, video game development, advertising, and virtual reality. Common roles include 3D animator, character animator, visual effects artist, and motion graphics designer, often requiring proficiency in software like Maya, Blender, or Adobe After Effects. Many positions require a portfolio and a strong understanding of storytelling, timing, and technical skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Animation jobs in California?

The most popular types of Computer Animation jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Computer Animation jobs in California?

For Computer Animation jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Computer Animation jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Computer Animation jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Computer Animation jobs?

Cities in California with the most Computer Animation job openings:

Infographic showing various Computer Animation job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 76% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,900 per year, or $38.9 per hour.

ViewModel Animator (Apex Legends)

Electronic Arts Inc.

Los Angeles, CA โ€ข On-site

$42 - $63/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

General Information
Locations: Vancouver - Great Northern Way, British Columbia, Canada
  • Location: Los Angeles - Chatsworth
  • State: California
  • Country: United States of America

Role ID
215308
Worker Type
Regular Employee
Studio/Department
EA Studios - Respawn
Work Model
Hybrid
Description & Requirements
Electronic Arts creates next-level entertainment experiences that inspire players and fans around the world. Here, everyone is part of the story. Part of a community that connects across the globe. A place where creativity thrives, new perspectives are invited, and ideas matter. A team where everyone makes play happen.
Founded in 2010 by the original creators of the Call of Duty Franchise, Respawn was created with the philosophy that when talented people have creative freedom, they'll make extraordinary games that achieve the unexpected. From our roots as an indie studio to joining the expansive roster of studios at Electronic Arts, this remains our guiding principle. We truly love what we do and want to share our passion with players worldwide. Our shipped titles include critically acclaimed multi-platform games Apex Legends, Titanfall, Titanfall 2, Star Warsโ„ข Jedi: Fallen Order, Star Warsโ„ข Jedi: Survivor and Medal of Honor: Above and Beyond. Join us for the opportunity to create groundbreaking games with some of the best developer talent in the industry.
You can learn more about our studio and values at respawn.com/studio.
We are looking for a talented and experienced Viewmodel Animator to join the Apex Legends Animation team. You are passionate about making games in a collaborative environment, working with a team of experienced developers to craft immersive, player-first experiences. In this role, you will realize high-quality first-person animations that bring our gameplay to life.
What you'll do...
  • Deliver powerful, memorable first-person animation performances from initial blockout to final polish, with style and personality.
  • Work with Designers and members of all disciplines cross-discipline teams to ensure that we achieve responsive, immersive gameplay that feels rewarding to our players.
  • Maintain communication across all relevant disciplines (production, design, art, audio, VFX) throughout the development of your areas of responsibility.
  • Help to establish efficient pipelines and procedures across the animation teams
  • Be proactive in assessing and evolving both workflow and player experience for Apex Legends.

Ideally you have...
  • 2+ years of professional game development experience
  • A strong understanding of video game animation development
  • Proficiency in a 3D animation package such as Autodesk Maya
  • Examples of high fidelity first person viewmodel animation and a range of expressive personality and grounded body mechanics
  • Experience working with other domains-especially Designers, Engineers and Artists
  • A proactive work ethic and a sense of responsibility for the continued success of Apex Legends

Pay Transparency - North America
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
The ranges listed below are what EA in good faith expects to pay applicants for this role in these locations at the time of this posting. If you reside in a different location, a recruiter will advise on the applicable range and benefits. Pay offered will be determined based on a number of relevant business and candidate factors (e.g. education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, or business needs).
PAY RANGES
* British Columbia (depending on location e.g. Vancouver vs. Victoria) *$77,700 - $107,900 CAD
* California (depending on location e.g. Los Angeles vs. San Francisco) *$42 - $63 USD
Pay is just one part of the overall compensation at EA.
For Canada, we offer a package of benefits including vacation (3 weeks per year to start), 10 days per year of sick time, paid top-up to EI/QPIP benefits up to 100% of base salary when you welcome a new child (12 weeks for maternity, and 4 weeks for parental/adoption leave), extended health/dental/vision coverage, life insurance, disability insurance, retirement plan to regular full-time employees. Certain roles may also be eligible for bonus and other incentive programs.
In the US, we offer a package of benefits including paid time off (3 weeks per year to start), 80 hours per year of sick time, 16 paid company holidays per year, 10 weeks paid time off to bond with baby, medical/dental/vision insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, and 401(k) to regular full-time employees.
About Electronic Arts
We're proud to have an extensive portfolio of games and experiences, locations around the world, and opportunities across EA. We value adaptability, resilience, creativity, and curiosity. From leadership that brings out your potential, to creating space for learning and experimenting, we empower you to do great work and pursue opportunities for growth.
We adopt a holistic approach to our benefits programs, emphasizing physical, emotional, financial, career, and community wellness to support a balanced life. Our packages are tailored to meet local needs and may include healthcare coverage, mental well-being support, retirement savings, paid time off, family leaves, complimentary games, and more. We nurture environments where our teams can always bring their best to what they do.
Electronic Arts is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, genetic information, religion, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, marital status, family status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We will also consider employment qualified applicants with criminal records in accordance with applicable law. EA also makes workplace accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities as required by applicable law.