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Computer Science Animation Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Gameplay Animation SE

Novato, CA

$71.40K - $105.66K/yr

... Computer Science or a related field (or equivalent work experience) ● Excellent 3D math and ... animation and forward kinematics ● Ability to explain technical topics to people of varying ...

... animation and mobile content, and in object-oriented designed methodologies and programming ... ActionScript, CSV, XML, and HTML5, etc.) Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Computer Science or ...

... animation and mobile content, and in object-oriented designed methodologies and programming ... ActionScript, CSV, XML, and HTML5, etc.) Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Computer Science or ...

The 3D Animator will create high-fidelity, cinematic animations that communicate complex scientific ... Experience working with CAD files and converting them into production-ready 3D assets * Background ...

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Computer Science Animation information

See California salary details

$5

$66

How much do computer science animation jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for computer science animation in California is $66.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66.44 and $66.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Computer Science Animator, you need a solid background in computer science, programming (such as C++, Python), and digital animation principles, often supported by a degree in computer science, animation, or a related field. Proficiency with animation software like Autodesk Maya, Blender, and graphics libraries or game engines (e.g., Unity, Unreal Engine) is essential, along with familiarity with scripting and rendering tools. Strong creativity, attention to detail, and effective collaboration skills help create engaging animations and facilitate teamwork in multidisciplinary environments. These skills are crucial for producing high-quality visual content that meets technical requirements and creative objectives.

How do computer science animators typically collaborate with other departments during a project?

Computer science animators often work closely with artists, software developers, and project managers to ensure that animation sequences are both visually appealing and technically feasible. They regularly participate in cross-functional meetings to integrate feedback from creative teams and address any technical constraints or challenges. This collaborative environment helps ensure that the final product meets both artistic and performance standards, and also offers animators opportunities to broaden their skills by learning from adjacent disciplines.

What is computer science animation?

Computer science animation refers to the creation of moving images and visual effects using computational techniques and programming. It combines principles from computer science, such as algorithms, data structures, and software development, with artistic design to produce animations for films, video games, simulations, and educational tools. Professionals in this field often use specialized software and programming languages to model, render, and animate digital objects and scenes. The field is interdisciplinary, drawing from mathematics, physics, and graphic design to achieve realistic and engaging results.

What is the difference between Computer Science Animation vs Computer Graphics?

AspectComputer Science AnimationComputer Graphics
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, Animation, or related fieldsBachelor's in Computer Graphics, Digital Media, or related fields
Work EnvironmentAnimation studios, gaming companies, film productionDesign firms, visual effects companies, software development
Industry UsageCreating animated content, character animation, visual storytellingGenerating visual images, rendering, 3D modeling

Computer Science Animation focuses on developing animated content and visual storytelling using programming and computer science principles. In contrast, Computer Graphics emphasizes creating and rendering visual images, often involving 3D modeling and visual effects. While both fields overlap in visual design, Computer Science Animation is more centered on animation techniques and interactive media, whereas Computer Graphics covers a broader range of visual content creation.

What are popular job titles related to Computer Science Animation jobs in California? For Computer Science Animation jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Computer Science Animation jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Science Animation jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Computer Science Animation jobs? Cities in California with the most Computer Science Animation job openings:
Gameplay Animation SE

Gameplay Animation SE

2K

Novato, CA

$71.40K - $105.66K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

2K Sports Lab

Who We Are

2K Games is headquartered in Novato, California and is a wholly owned label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO). Founded in 2005, 2K Games is a global video game company, publishing titles developed by some of the most influential game development studios in the world. Our studios responsible for developing 2K's portfolio of world-class games across multiple platforms, include Visual Concepts, Firaxis, Hangar 13, CatDaddy, Cloud Chamber, 31st Union, and HB Studios. Our portfolio of titles is expanding due to our global strategic plan, building and acquiring exciting studios whose content continues to inspire all of us! 2K publishes titles in today's most popular gaming genres, including sports, shooters, action, role-playing, strategy, casual, and family entertainment.

Located in Vancouver, BC, 2K Sports Lab is a small collective being formed within 2K Games that is driving the research and development of future sports interactive entertainment programs. Within this group, speculative work will be done on future sports games with an eye towards taking the magic of 2K's publishing and development expertise and applying them to future opportunities.

Our team of engineers, marketers, artists, writers, data scientists, producers, thinkers and doers, are the professional publishing stewards of our growing library of critically-acclaimed franchises such as NBA 2K, 2K PGA, Tiny Tina's Wonderlands, Lego Drive, BioShock, Borderlands, The Quarry, Mafia, Sid Meier's Civilization, Marvel's Midnight Suns, WWE 2K, and XCOM.

At 2K, we pride ourselves on creating an inclusive work environment, which means encouraging our teams to Come as You Are and do your best work! We encourage ALL applicants to explore our global positions, even if they don't meet every requirement for the role. If you're interested in the job and think you have what it takes to work at 2K, we encourage you to apply!

What We Need

We are looking for a Software Engineer to contribute to the development of new animation features and gameplay mechanics at our new studio. In this role, you will be working closely with Animators, Design and Production to develop nuanced and sophisticated animation behaviors that authentically replicate sport. You will help build the foundation, then iterate and innovate upon it and polish world class gameplay for what will be the next massive sports franchise in our industry.

What You'll Do

● Collaborate closely with gameplay engineers/designers to identify and develop new gameplay features

● Create and own animation-driven gameplay mechanics

● Support requests and features for content creation tools, and animation review/analysis

● Assist engineers in making the best use of existing and new animation features

● Write and maintain robust and performant code

● Optimize code and debug animation issues as they arise

What Will Make You A Great Fit

● Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related field (or equivalent work experience)

● Excellent 3D math and linear algebra skills

● Solid familiarity and experience with C++

● Experience working with animation or gameplay features

● Implementation experience in one or more of the following areas, inverse kinematics techniques, procedural animation techniques, keyframe animation and forward kinematics

● Ability to explain technical topics to people of varying levels of expertise

● An eye for detail in creating dynamic, authentic, and responsive character animation

● Love for video games (not just ours!)

Beneficial Qualifications

● Experience developing and shipping AAA games on Unreal Engine 4 and 5

● Familiarity with Python and/or C#

As an equal opportunity employer, we are committed to ensuring that qualified individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform their essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us if you need reasonable accommodation.

Please note that 2K Games and its studios never uses instant messaging apps or personal email accounts to contact prospective employees or conduct interviews and when emailing, only use 2K.com accounts.


The pay range for this position in British Columbia at the start of employment is expected to be between $71,400 and $105,660 per Year. However, base pay offered is based on market location, and may vary further depending on individualized factors for job candidates, such as job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and other objective business considerations. Subject to those same considerations, the total compensation package for employees in regular roles may also include other elements, including a bonus and/or equity awards, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, provided that temporary or intern roles will not be eligible for many of these payments or benefits. Details of participation in compensation and benefit plans (if applicable) will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.
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