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Entry Level 3D Game Animator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

Professional experience working in 3d animation for films, games, TV or creative industries. * Considerable experience working with Autodesk Maya and Motion Builder * Experience with related ...

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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 Jun 14, 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
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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 39% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 6% Temporary, and 6% Summer. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,866 per year, or $30.7 per hour.
Adjunct Faculty (Dual Credit - Game Development - Production and 3D Animation) NVC - req13598

Adjunct Faculty (Dual Credit - Game Development - Production and 3D Animation) NVC - req13598

Northwest Vista College

San Antonio, TX • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Adjunct Faculty (Dual Credit - Game Development - Production and 3D Animation) NVC - req13598
To receive consideration for employment, you mustupload transcript(s) and a Resume/CV. Please submit transcript(s) under"Other Documents" under applicant profile / Section 2 in theapplication.
*You must be a teacher with the designatedIndependent School District (ISD) affiliated with Northwest Vista College.
*If unsure of affiliation with the college,please contact your high school administrator for more information.
Posting closes on: 9/24/2026 at 6:00pm CST
This position is part-time and temporary
Employment type: NP
Hours per Week: Varies
Hourly or Salaried: Salary
Entry Pay: Depends on education level
Funding source: Hard Money
Benefits Eligible: No
Location: Academic Affairs
3535 N. Ellison Dr.
San Antonio, Texas, 78251
United States
Requisition #: req13598
Outside working hours if other than M-F 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.: Evenings and weekends may be required
Job Summary and Description
*This position is for Dual Credit instruction located at one of the ISDs.*
Teaching faculty are professional educators who have the primary responsibility of fulfilling the District mission of providing a quality education for all students attending the colleges. Categories include full-time, temporary with benefits, and temporary without benefits. Faculty members are responsible to a department/program chairperson; The relationship of the faculty member to the student is one of leader, teacher, advisor, and facilitator of learning. Faculty members will uphold the mission and values of the colleges' and foster effective working relationships with students and colleagues.
To view a complete job description, click here.
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience:
  • Associate's degree in the teaching discipline or Associate's degree with at least 18 hours in the teaching discipline.
  • You must be a teacher with the designated Independent SchoolDistrict (ISD) affiliated with (Northwest Vista College).

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