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Entry Level 3D Game Animator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Arthrex

3D Artist II

Naples, FL · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science/Game Design/Computer Animation/Visual Effects or similar is ... Job title: 3D Artist II Arthrex Location:

Apptronik

Software Engineer - Human Motion Data

Austin, TX · On-site

$113K - $136K/yr

... animation and gaming engines, to support humanoid robot development. • Implement and optimize ... 3D game engines (Unreal Engine or Unity) or advanced physics simulators for robotics data ...

Apptronik

Software Engineer - Human Motion Data

Austin, TX

$113K - $136K/yr

... animation and gaming engines , to support humanoid robot development. * Implement and optimize ... Familiarity and hands-on experience utilizing 3D game engines (Unreal Engine or Unity) or advanced ...

Apptronik

Software Engineer - Human Motion Data

Austin, TX · On-site

$113K - $136K/yr

... animation and gaming engines, to support humanoid robot development. • Implement and optimize ... 3D game engines (Unreal Engine or Unity) or advanced physics simulators for robotics data ...

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Entry Level 3D Game Animator information

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$31K

$63.9K

$132.5K

How much do entry level 3d game animator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level 3d game animator in the United States is $63,866.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,500.00 and $62,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level 3D game animators in a collaborative development environment?

Entry level 3D game animators often face challenges such as adapting to diverse animation pipelines, learning proprietary software or game engines, and meeting tight production deadlines. Collaboration is key, as animators regularly work with designers, programmers, and artists to ensure animations align with gameplay and artistic vision. Communicating feedback, iterating on animations based on team input, and balancing creativity with technical constraints are essential skills to develop in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level 3D Game Animator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level 3D Game Animator, you need a solid understanding of animation principles, basic 3D modeling, and a relevant degree or portfolio demonstrating your abilities. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, and game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective communication are important soft skills for collaborating in a team and bringing characters to life. These skills and qualities ensure that animations are technically sound, visually engaging, and consistent with the overall game vision.

What does an entry level 3D game animator do?

An entry level 3D game animator creates basic animations for characters, objects, and environments in video games. They work closely with senior animators and other team members to bring game assets to life, often using software like Maya or Blender. Typical tasks include rigging models, animating movements, and making sure animations meet technical and artistic requirements. Entry level animators may also assist with troubleshooting and optimizing animations for better game performance.

What is the difference between Entry Level 3D Game Animator vs Entry Level 3D Character Modeler?

AspectEntry Level 3D Game AnimatorEntry Level 3D Character Modeler
Required SkillsAnimation, rigging, storytellingModeling, texturing, topology
Work EnvironmentGame studios, animation teamsGame studios, character design teams
Common CertificationsPortfolio, basic animation coursesPortfolio, 3D modeling certifications
Industry UsageCreating character movements and animationsDesigning and building character models

While both roles require 3D skills and work in game development, Entry Level 3D Game Animators focus on bringing characters to life through movement, whereas Entry Level 3D Character Modelers specialize in creating the visual models. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right roles in the gaming industry.

More about Entry Level 3D Game Animator jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level 3D Game Animator jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level 3D Game Animator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of 3D Game Animator jobs? The most popular types of 3D Game Animator jobs are:
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Entry Level 3D Game Animator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level 3D Game Animator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Locum Tenens, 74% Part Time, 9% Temporary, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,866 per year, or $30.7 per hour.
Lecturer 3D Digital Animation

Lecturer 3D Digital Animation

University of Colorado

Denver, CO • On-site

$5.1K/mo

Part-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

University Of Colorado Boulder rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

134th of 544 rated colleges and universities

Job description

University of Colorado - College of Arts & Media
Lecturer
The University of Colorado Denver l Anschutz Medical Campus seeks individuals with demonstrated commitment to creating an inclusive learning and working environment. We value the ability to engage effectively with students, faculty and staff of diverse backgrounds.
Nature of Work The Digital Animation Center (DAC) program within the Visual Arts department in the College of Arts & Media at the University of Colorado Denver seeks a qualified candidate to fill a part-time Lecturer teaching position. This is a temporary, non-tenure track position that will teach no more than two courses per semester. Appointments will be part-time (less than 50%) and will be made semester-by-semester, depending on the needs of the department. 3D Graphics and Animation The 3D Graphics and Animation emphasis at the University of Colorado Denver is a competitive and rigorous four-year curriculum focused on preparing students to work in a wide variety of fields that use animated digital computer graphics (CG), including entertainment, film and television, gaming, medicine, and science. Examples of Work Performed Teach courses from introductory to advanced levels of 3D graphics and animation to undergraduate students in the Digital Animation Center program.
Salary and Benefits:
The salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established at $5,150 per 3-credit semester course.
The above salary range (or hiring range) represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.
This position is not eligible for overtime compensation unless it is non-exempt.
The University of Colorado offers a full benefits package. Information on University benefits programs, including eligibility, is located at Employee Services.
University of Colorado Denver | Anschutz Medical Campus is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our faculty, staff, students and visitors. To assist in achieving that goal, we conduct background checks for all new employees prior to their employment.
The Immigration Reform and Control Act requires that verification of employment eligibility be documented for all new employees by the end of the third day of work. Alternative formats of this ad are available upon request for persons with disabilities.
Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Colorado provides generous leave, health plans and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.
Benefits: https://www.cu.edu/employee-services/benefits.
Total Compensation Calculator: https://www.cu.edu/employee-services/total-compensation
Diversity and Equity:
Please click here for information on disability accommodations: https://www1.ucdenver.edu/offices/human-resources/employee-relations-performance/ada-compliance
Office of Equity: https://www1.ucdenver.edu/offices/equity
The University of Colorado Denver | Anschutz Medical Campus is committed to recruiting and supporting a diverse student body, faculty and administrative staff. The university strives to promote a culture of inclusiveness, respect, communication and understanding. We encourage applications from women, ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities and all veterans. The University of Colorado is committed to diversity and equality in education and employment.
Qualifications
Minimum Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in 3D animation and some relevant professional experience
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Knowledge of Autodesk's Maya and other industry standard software
  • Excellent facility with graphic design applications such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator
  • Solid generalist skills in 3D graphics and animation
  • Ability to teach and work with a diverse student body.

Preferred Requirements
  • Experience teaching in a higher education environment.
  • Master's Degree in a related field.

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