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Game Animation Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Ember Lab

Senior Gameplay Animator

Orange, CA

$88K - $120K/yr

... game project and relevant animation systems * Collaborate with the design and engineering teams to ensure animations align with gameplay mechanics and technical constraints. * Iterate and refine ...

Ember Lab

Senior Gameplay Animator

Orange, CA · On-site

$88K - $120K/yr

... game project and relevant animation systems * Collaborate with the design and engineering teams to ensure animations align with gameplay mechanics and technical constraints. * Iterate and refine ...

Ember Lab

Senior Gameplay Animator

Orange, CA · On-site

$88K - $120K/yr

... game project and relevant animation systems * Collaborate with the design and engineering teams to ensure animations align with gameplay mechanics and technical constraints. * Iterate and refine ...

Bonfire Studios

Lead Gameplay Animator

Irvine, CA

Inspiring and guiding the animation discipline, setting the creative vision and quality bar for characters and combat in a competitive multiplayer game. * Leading and mentoring a lean animation team ...

Bonfire Studios

Lead Gameplay Animator

Irvine, CA · On-site +1

Inspiring and guiding the animation discipline, setting the creative vision and quality bar for characters and combat in a competitive multiplayer game. * Leading and mentoring a lean animation team ...

Roblox

3D Animator (Short Term)

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$9.1K - $11K/mo

Strong experience in character animation , with a focus on creating believable, game-ready locomotion and action animations * Excellent acting skills through motion-conveying emotion, weight, timing ...

Carlost Inc.

Account Manager

Burlingame, CA · On-site

Work with the animation lead on tool, system and game play prototypes. Collaborate with the Tech Art Team in the development tools that support the animation pipeline. Collaborate with Design ...

Carlost Inc.

Account Manager

Burlingame, CA

Work with the animation lead on tool, system and game play prototypes. Collaborate with the Tech Art Team in the development tools that support the animation pipeline. Collaborate with Design ...

2K

Lead Animator

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$123K - $182K/yr

Develop quick animation prototypes for new gameplay features, such as combat abilities, character actions, or animatic sequences. * Help define, maintain, and elevate the animation style and quality ...

2K

Lead Animator

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$123K - $182K/yr

Develop quick animation prototypes for new gameplay features, such as combat abilities, character actions, or animatic sequences. * Help define, maintain, and elevate the animation style and quality ...

31st Union

Lead Animator

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$123K - $182K/yr

Develop quick animation prototypes for new gameplay features, such as combat abilities, character actions, or animatic sequences. * Help define, maintain, and elevate the animation style and quality ...

2K

Lead Animator

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$123K - $182K/yr

Develop quick animation prototypes for new gameplay features, such as combat abilities, character actions, or animatic sequences. * Help define, maintain, and elevate the animation style and quality ...

2K

Lead Animator

San Mateo, CA

$123K - $182K/yr

Develop quick animation prototypes for new gameplay features, such as combat abilities, character actions, or animatic sequences. * Help define, maintain, and elevate the animation style and quality ...

31st Union

Lead Animator

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$123K - $182K/yr

Develop quick animation prototypes for new gameplay features, such as combat abilities, character actions, or animatic sequences. * Help define, maintain, and elevate the animation style and quality ...

Epic Games

Animation Systems Programmer

Larkspur, CA · On-site

$167K - $245K/yr

What You'll Do Epic Games is looking for an experienced Animation Systems Programmer for our ... Special Projects team. As a member of our team, you will play a critical role in driving future ...

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All JobsGame Animation JobsGame Animation Jobs in California

Game Animation information

See California salary details

$46.4K

$154K

How much do game animation jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for game animation in California is $147,165.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $153,000.00 and $153,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a game animation?

A Game Animation job involves creating the movement and behavior of characters, creatures, and objects in video games. Animators use software like Maya, Blender, or Unity to bring life to models through keyframe animation or motion capture techniques. They work closely with designers, artists, and programmers to ensure animations are smooth, realistic, and enhance gameplay. Strong knowledge of timing, weight, and fluid motion is essential for making animations feel natural and immersive.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of someone working in game animation?

A typical day for a Game Animator involves creating and refining character and object animations, collaborating with game designers and programmers to ensure animations integrate smoothly into the game engine, and reviewing feedback to make necessary adjustments. Animators often attend team meetings to discuss project goals, sync up with other departments, and troubleshoot animation issues as they arise. Depending on the studio, you may also be involved in motion capture sessions or prototyping new animation systems. This role requires a balance of technical skill and creative input, making teamwork and adaptability especially important in fast-paced development cycles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in game animation, and why are they important?

To thrive in Game Animation, you need a strong understanding of animation principles, character rigging, and a solid portfolio demonstrating your artistic and technical abilities. Expertise in industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, and game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine is typically required. Soft skills like creativity, attention to detail, and effective communication are highly valued for collaborating with designers and developers. These skills are crucial for bringing characters and worlds to life, ensuring animations meet the visual and interactive needs of modern video games.

Are game animators in demand?

Game animators are in high demand due to the growing popularity of video games and the need for realistic and engaging character movements. Skills in animation software like Maya or Blender, along with a strong portfolio, can improve job prospects in this competitive field.

How much do game animators make?

Game animators typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Entry-level animators may start around $40,000, while senior roles or those with specialized skills in tools like Maya or Blender can earn over $100,000. Salaries can also vary based on whether they work for large studios or indie developers.

How to become a game animator?

To become a game animator, you typically need a bachelor's degree in animation, computer graphics, or a related field, along with strong skills in animation software such as Maya or Blender. Building a portfolio of animated work and gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions are important steps in entering the industry.

What does a game animator do?

A game animator creates and manipulates visual movements of characters, objects, and environments in video games. They use animation software and work closely with designers and programmers to ensure smooth, realistic motion that enhances gameplay and storytelling.

What are the most commonly searched types of Game Animation jobs in California?

The most popular types of Game Animation jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Game Animation jobs in California?

For Game Animation jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Game Animation jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Game Animation jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Game Animation jobs?

Cities in California with the most Game Animation job openings:

Game Animation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Game Animation job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,165 per year, or $70.8 per hour.

Senior Gameplay Animator

Ember Lab

Orange, CA

$88K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

At Ember Lab, our goal is to create powerful, transformative experiences that impact people for a lifetime. Having released our debut game, Kena: Bridge of Spirits, in 2021 this journey is just beginning. We're looking for collaborative team members who share our passion for storytelling and are eager to help us shape the future of Ember Lab.


We believe a strong, collaborative environment is critical to creating memorable experiences. As a Senior Gameplay Animator, you will conceptualize, design, develop and execute 3D animations. You will collaborate across teams to bring these animations and Ember Lab work to life!


Description

  • Create, test, and iterate on gameplay animations related to combat and interactive events
  • Integrate animations into game project and relevant animation systems
  • Collaborate with the design and engineering teams to ensure animations align with gameplay mechanics and technical constraints.
  • Iterate and refine animations based on feedback from team members and playtesting.
  • Attend to bugs related to tasks and maintain relevant animation features
  • Contribute to the development of animation workflows and tools to streamline the animation process.
  • Stay up-to-date with industry trends and techniques to continually improve the quality of animations.


Requirements

  • 5+ years of gameplay animation experience
  • Strong skills in animating body mechanics and action
  • Excellent Maya animation skills
  • Proficient with animation systems in UE5
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Strong time management skills and ability to meet deadlines
  • Shipped 1+ title
  • Unreal Engine 4 or 5 experience


Location

  • In Office


To Apply

  • Please include a portfolio


Compensation Range

The standard annual base salary range for this role in the U.S. is $88,000 - $120,000 USD. Actual pay will vary depending on experience, qualifications, performance and location. The base salary range for locations outside of the U.S. will be adjusted according to location.


At Ember Lab, we like to keep things professional and straightforward when it comes to hiring. All of our recruitment happens through official channels like an Ember Lab email, our recruitment platform BambooHR, or LinkedIn.


If you ever get a message from someone claiming to be us through an unexpected or suspicious platform, it's probably not legit-feel free to ignore it or give us a heads-up at contact@emberlab.com.


We've got your back when it comes to keeping the process safe and secure!


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