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Computer Science Animation Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior 3D Artist, Technical

San Mateo, CA

$144K - $173K/yr

A Bachelor's degree or proven experience in a related CG field or computer science * 5+ years ... runtime animation systems, sophisticated deformation systems and cloth simulation * Skills:

... animation, and interior design, who are passionate about turning their virtual creations into ... Preferred Qualifications * BS, MS or higher degree in Computer Science, Robotics, Engineering or a ...

Android Developer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$65.50 - $86/hr

Requires a bachelor's degree in area of Computer Science and at least 3-5 years of experience in ... including animation and transition Very strong in multi-threaded programming Experience with ...

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a ... Experience with animation software/avatar technology platforms like Synthesis * Experience with ...

Research Scientist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

$180K - $300K/yr

... for ACG (Animation, Comics, and Games) through their own creativity and skills. Pushing the ... MS or PhD degree in Computer Science, Statistics, or a related field, or 8+ years of equivalent ...

IOS Developer

San Jose, CA

$60.75 - $83.50/hr

Requirements: BS/MS degree in Computer Science, Engineering or a related subject Proven working ... Animation, Core Graphics and Core Text Experience with third-party libraries and APIs Working ...

Research Scientist

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$162K - $210K/yr

D. in Computer Science, AI, or a related field. * Experience: 2+ years of post-graduate research experience in academia or industry R&D. * Track Record: Sustained history of original research and ...

Senior 3D Artist, Technical

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$163K - $200K/yr

A Bachelor's degree or proven experience in a related CG field or computer science * 5+ years ... runtime animation systems, sophisticated deformation systems and cloth simulation * Skills:

Senior Front End

San Jose, CA

$134K - $177K/yr

... animation experience using D3, Canvas, SVG or WebGL Meticulous attention to visual details and ... React, Angular, Ember BA/BS degree in Computer Science, related technical field, or equivalent ...

Senior Front End

San Jose, CA · On-site

$134K - $177K/yr

... animation experience using D3, Canvas, SVG or WebGL • Meticulous attention to visual details and ... React, Angular, Ember • BA/BS degree in Computer Science, related technical field, or equivalent ...

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or equivalent (Bachelor's or Master's a plus ... Production/test experience in the gaming or animation industry * Experience with animation ...

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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 Jun 22, 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 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.

How is computer science used in animation?

Computer science plays a key role in animation by developing algorithms and software for creating realistic visuals, modeling characters, and simulating physical effects. Animation professionals often use programming skills and tools like Maya or Blender to automate processes and enhance visual quality.

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.

Is computer animation a good career?

Computer animation is a viable career that involves creating visual effects and animated content for film, television, video games, and advertising. It requires skills in software tools like Maya or Blender, a strong understanding of art and storytelling, and often a portfolio or certification. The industry offers opportunities for creative expression and growth, but job stability can vary based on industry demand and individual skill level.

Can you be an animator with a computer science degree?

Computer Science Animation roles often require skills in programming, 3D modeling, and animation software such as Maya or Blender. A computer science degree can provide a strong foundation in programming and problem-solving, which are valuable in animation pipelines, but additional training or experience in art and animation techniques is typically necessary. Combining technical skills with artistic ability can make a candidate well-suited for animation positions in the tech and entertainment industries.

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.

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 jobs can I get with computer animation?

With a background in computer animation, you can pursue roles such as 3D animator, visual effects artist, character animator, motion graphics designer, or game designer. These jobs typically require proficiency in software like Maya, Blender, or Adobe After Effects and may involve working in film, television, gaming, or advertising industries.
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:
Infographic showing various Computer Science Animation job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $138,166 per year, or $66.4 per hour.
Senior 3D Artist, Technical

Senior 3D Artist, Technical

Roblox

San Mateo, CA

$144K - $173K/yr

Other

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

As a Senior Technical Animator, you will be working with a team of talented engineers, artists, and technical artists to push the boundaries of what is possible on the Roblox platform. You will be instrumental in informing where we take our animation tools and help advance our capabilities by providing reference animations and new animations for our platform.

You will:

  • Partner with engineers to prototype and guide the development of our movement and rigging systems
  • Be a subject matter expert on animation and animation technology who cultivates a comprehensive, user-centered animation system
  • Evaluate our internal workflows to develop a POV on areas of critical investment; bring knowledge of industry best practices to the team
  • Coordinate and review any outsourced animation assets and be responsible for quality control
  • Partner with our community engagement and documentation teams to build tutorials and sample content
  • Engage with external creators to advise on best practices and surface opportunities to further improve workflows
  • Familiarity with scripting languages and node-based character controllers (i.e. Unreal Blueprints) is ideal

You have:

  • A Bachelor's degree or proven experience in a related CG field or computer science
  • 5+ years experience in the game industry, worked on titles on multiple platforms (mobile a plus)
  • Ability: Envision extensible and efficient methods for production of high quality avatars; including clothing, hair, and skin shading
  • Knowledge: Strong understanding of modern real-time engines, a variety of tools (including Maya and Blender), runtime animation systems, sophisticated deformation systems and cloth simulation
  • Skills: Demonstrates an expertise in human motion, squash and stretch, timing, and secondary motion
  • Technical Toolbelt: Builds rigs and morph targets, does skin weighting, and uses solvers for hair and cloth
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills