ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Contract Video Game Animator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mercor

Video Game Annotation Specialist

New York, NY · Remote

$16 - $17/hr

Contract Compensation: $16-$17/hour Location: Remote Role Responsibilities * Annotate assigned games such as Minecraft and open-world games for structured sessions of 15-60 minutes. * Follow simple ...

Jobgether

As a Spine Animator, you will bring characters, user interfaces, and in-game moments to life ... Passion for video games and interactive entertainment; prior gaming industry experience is ...

Roblox

Senior 3D Animator (Short Term)

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$9.1K - $11K/mo

Proven track record creating animations for video games (mobile, PC, or console experience a plus) * Strong sense of timing, weight, anticipation, follow-through, and polish in game animation ...

US AI

Contract Animator

Rockville, MD · On-site

... seeking a talented Contract Animator to bring ideas, products, and stories to life through ... Basic understanding of video editing, sound design, or compositing * Experience working from brand ...

AGBO

Expression of Interest - Animator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

Qualifications & Skills: * 5+ years of experience in feature-style projects or video game cinematics. * At least 5 years of experience in Maya, MotionBuilder. * Understanding of the animation ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Boston, MA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Austin, TX · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Tempe, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Lubbock, TX · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Pittsburgh, PA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Chattanooga, TN · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Tampa, FL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Leesburg, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsContract Video Game Animator Jobs

Contract Video Game Animator information

See salary details

$10

$39

$70

How much do contract video game animator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract video game 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.

What are contract video game animators?

Contract video game animators are professionals hired on a temporary basis to create and animate characters, objects, and environments for video games. They work closely with game developers, artists, and designers to bring the game's visuals to life, often using specialized animation software. Unlike full-time employees, contract animators are typically brought on for specific projects or periods, offering flexibility to both the animator and the studio. Their work is essential for delivering smooth, engaging gameplay experiences.

What is the difference between Contract Video Game Animator vs Contract Character Animator?

AspectContract Video Game AnimatorContract Character Animator
Required SkillsAnimation software, game engine knowledge, 3D modelingAnimation software, character rigging, storytelling
Work EnvironmentGame development studios, freelance projectsAnimation studios, freelance or game projects
Industry UsageVideo game industry, interactive mediaAnimation industry, film and game sectors

Contract Video Game Animators focus on creating animations specifically for video games, often working within game engines and collaborating with developers. Contract Character Animators specialize in bringing characters to life through animation, often working across various media including games and film. While both roles require animation skills and software proficiency, Contract Video Game Animators emphasize in-game integration, whereas Contract Character Animators focus on character performance and storytelling.

What are some common challenges contract video game animators face when working with remote teams?

Contract video game animators working remotely often encounter challenges related to communication and synchronization with the core development team. Since much of the animation process depends on timely feedback and alignment with the game's vision, it's crucial to establish clear channels for sharing work-in-progress and receiving input. Additionally, adapting to varying animation pipelines or software used by different studios can require flexibility and quick learning. Successful contract animators proactively schedule check-ins, clarify expectations early, and stay organized to deliver high-quality work within deadlines.

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

To thrive as a Contract Video Game Animator, you need expertise in 2D/3D animation principles, character rigging, and a strong portfolio showcasing relevant work, often supported by a degree in animation or a related field. Proficiency in industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, and Adobe Creative Suite is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to work independently under tight deadlines are crucial soft skills. These abilities ensure high-quality animations that bring game worlds to life and meet the dynamic demands of contract-based game development projects.
More about Contract Video Game Animator jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Video Game Animator jobs? Cities with the most Contract Video Game Animator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Video Game Animator jobs? The most popular types of Video Game Animator jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Video Game Animator jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Video Game Animator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Contract Video Game Animator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Video Game Animator jobs are:
Contract Video Game Animator jobs near you

Senior Gameplay Animator (Combat Specialist)

LightSpeed Studios

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$110K - $207K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Business UnitLIGHTSPEED STUDIOS is made up of passionate players who advance the art & science of game development through great stories, great gameplay, and advanced technology. We are focused on bringing next generation experiences to gamers who want to enjoy them anywhere, anytime, across multiple genres and devices.What the Role Entails
  • Collaborate with game designers and programmers to craft high-quality animations that look and feel exceptional.
  • Own the full animation pipeline, from previz and mocap planning through clean-up, keyframing, implementation, and playtesting; iterating until the result meets the highest standard.
  • Proactively communicate with programmers, designers, artists, and writers to ensure animations align with gameplay intentions, mission objectives, art direction, and narrative.
  • Embrace iteration and feedback, with a willingness to explore new ideas and both give and receive constructive critique.
  • Contribute to a collaborative, supportive, and creatively driven team environment.
Who We Look For
  • 7+ years of animation experience in video game development.
  • Expert knowledge of range and/or melee combat animation in AAA games.
  • Proficiency in editing and animating motion capture data in Maya.
  • Highly skilled in hand-key animation, with deep understanding of animation principles and strong aesthetic judgment; capable of accurately controlling the rhythm, impact, and silhouette appeal of character animation.
  • Demonstrates exceptional creativity and is capable of independently delivering high-quality combat action design.
  • Strong understanding of realistic body mechanics and performance.
  • Ability to learn and adapt to new tools and animation implementation techniques.
  • Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
  • Self-motivated with a proactive approach to problem-solving and a drive to raise the quality bar.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • At least one shipped AAA title.
  • Project experience using Unreal Engine.
  • Experience with motion-matching, and pose-matching techniques.

Location State(s)

US-California-Los AngelesThe expected base pay range for this position in the location(s) listed above is $110,000.00 to $207,200.00 per year. Actual pay may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Employees hired for this position may be eligible for a sign on payment, relocation package, and restricted stock units, which will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Subject to the terms and conditions of the plans in effect, hired applicants are also eligible for medical, dental, vision, life and disability benefits, and participation in the Company's 401(k) plan. The Employee is also eligible for up to 15 to 25 days of vacation per year (depending on the employee's tenure), up to 13 days of holidays throughout the calendar year, and up to 10 days of paid sick leave per year. Your benefits may be adjusted to reflect your location, employment status, duration of employment with the company, and position level. Benefits may also be pro-rated for those who start working during the calendar year.Equal Employment Opportunity at Tencent

As an equal opportunity employer, we firmly believe that diverse voices fuel our innovation and allow us to better serve our users and the community. We foster an environment where every employee of Tencent feels supported and inspired to achieve individual and common goals.

Apply