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Full Time Video Game Animator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ten4

Senior Gaming Animator

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$129K - $148K/yr

Ten4 works with some of the best ad agencies, start-ups, production studios, and video game shops. * Drive animation performance without pushing out of a believable and realistic style; your hand ...

Ten4

Senior Gaming Animator

Redwood City, CA

$129K - $148K/yr

Ten4 works with some of the best ad agencies, start-ups, production studios, and video game shops. * Drive animation performance without pushing out of a believable and realistic style; your hand ...

AEG

Game-Day Graphics Operator / DJ Assistant

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$118K - $120K/yr

Trigger graphics, overlays, animations, lower thirds, prompts, and other content accurately and on ... Previous experience with live sports production, video boards, esports, church production, concerts ...

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Full Time Video Game Animator information

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How much do full time video game animator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time 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 is the difference between Full Time Video Game Animator vs 3D Character Modeler?

AspectFull Time Video Game Animator3D Character Modeler
Required SkillsAnimation principles, rigging, motion captureModeling, texturing, topology
Work EnvironmentGame studios, animation departmentsModeling studios, game development teams
Common CertificationsAnimation software certifications (Maya, Blender)3D modeling software certifications (3ds Max, ZBrush)
Industry UsageCreating character movements and effectsBuilding character models for games

The main difference between a Full Time Video Game Animator and a 3D Character Modeler lies in their focus: animators bring characters to life through movement, while modelers create the visual models. Both roles often collaborate within game development teams and require similar software skills, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

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

To thrive as a Full Time Video Game Animator, you need strong skills in character animation, knowledge of animation principles, and a degree in animation, fine arts, or a related field. Proficiency with industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, or 3ds Max, and experience with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, are typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong collaboration skills help you stand out in this role. These abilities ensure the creation of compelling, lifelike animations that enhance gameplay and provide engaging player experiences.

What does a full time video game animator do?

A full time video game animator creates the movement and behavior of characters, creatures, and objects in video games. They use specialized animation software to bring digital assets to life, ensuring smooth and realistic motion that enhances gameplay and storytelling. Animators collaborate closely with game designers, programmers, and artists to achieve the desired visual effects and maintain consistency with the game's style. Their work is crucial in making games immersive and engaging for players.

What are some common challenges faced by full-time video game animators, and how can they be addressed?

Full-time video game animators often face challenges such as meeting tight production deadlines, adapting to evolving project requirements, and collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams. Balancing creativity with technical constraints, such as polygon counts or frame rate limitations, can also be demanding. To address these challenges, animators benefit from strong communication skills, effective time management, and a willingness to learn new software or techniques as technology evolves. Regular feedback sessions and close collaboration with designers, programmers, and artists help ensure animations fit seamlessly into the game's vision and mechanics.
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Full Time Video Game Animator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Video Game Animator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,974 per year, or $39.4 per hour.

Senior Gaming Animator

Ten4

Redwood City, CA • On-site

$129K - $148K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Company Description
Here at Ten4, there's a core focus on Creative Services. By only recruiting for Digital Creatives we can give the best attention and satisfaction to both the clients and the candidates. Being a niche company provides the ability to source top notch candidates and to make the best connections possible. Ten4 works with some of the best ad agencies, start-ups, production studios, and video game shops.
Job Description
  • Drive animation performance without pushing out of a believable and realistic style; your hand-keyed work will fit seamlessly with motion capture
  • Join forces with designers and engineers to create characters that are expressive and that still work with player control and AI
  • Design hand-keyed animation with a highly intuitive and developed understanding of body mechanics, force, balance, timing, and believability
  • Use motion capture, video, and thumbnail sketches as reference for your process
  • Prototype gameplay by blocking animation quickly; when ideas are proven, polish animations to a high level
  • Provide thoughtful feedback to team members and be open to critique
  • Create multiplayer characters and AI that execute believable and memorable performances

Qualifications
  • 5+ years in game development with at least 2 shipped games
  • Experience OR interest in PC multiplayer games
  • Experience with in-game animation and Maya
  • College/University Degree in Character Animation or similar
  • Full comprehension of camera, layout, and stagingS
  • Self-directed and independent worker

Major Plus:
  • Excellent hand-keyed facial animation
  • Motionbuilder and Unreal Engine experience
  • First-person animations experience
  • strong design eye
  • Strong knowledge of cinematography, editing, and story development
  • Experience creating state machines and controller schemes

Additional Information
Benefits and Perks:
  • Competitive Salary with Stock Options
  • An open/unlimited Paid Time Off and Vacation Policy
  • Great medical, dental, and vision coverage for employee and dependents covered at 80% and company paid One Medical Group membership on top of your medical plan
  • Team lunch outings covered by company

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