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Game Animation Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Nintendo

Animator [Contract] (Retro Studios)

Austin, TX · On-site

You will be responsible for collaborating and sharing your ideas on animation as well as other aspects of our projects such as gameplay and story. * We will count on you to help us identify needs and ...

Nintendo

Animator [Contract] (Retro Studios)

Austin, TX · On-site

You will be responsible for collaborating and sharing your ideas on animation as well as other aspects of our projects such as gameplay and story. * We will count on you to help us identify needs and ...

De Circle

Animation Engineer - EmptyVessel

Austin, TX · On-site +1

Empty Vessel is an emerging game development studio focusing on immersive gaming experiences. With ... We are seeking 1-2 mid-level Animation Engineers with exceptional Unreal Engine 5 expertise to join ...

SciPlay

Senior Technical Artist

Austin, TX · On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Released titles that use Unity game engine * Working knowledge of Unity's Universal Rendering Pipeline * Animation - 2D character specific * Scripting ability to common art tooling (Photoshop, 3dx ...

SciPlay

Senior Technical Artist

Austin, TX · On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Released titles that use Unity game engine * Working knowledge of Unity's Universal Rendering Pipeline * Animation - 2D character specific * Scripting ability to common art tooling (Photoshop, 3dx ...

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Game Animation information

See Texas salary details

$43.8K

$145.3K

How much do game animation jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for game animation in Texas is $138,926.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $144,400.00 and $144,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the salary of a game animator?

The average salary of a game animator in the industry typically ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and skill level. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced animators with specialized skills or working at major studios can earn higher salaries. Knowledge of animation software like Maya or Blender and a strong portfolio can influence earning potential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Game Animation position, 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.

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 establishing a career in game animation.

Are game animators in demand?

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

What is a Game Animation job?

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.

How much does a game animator make?

The average salary for a game animator varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 annually. Entry-level animators may earn around $40,000, while experienced professionals with specialized skills can earn over $100,000. Proficiency in animation software like Maya or Blender and a strong portfolio can influence earning potential.

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 most commonly searched types of Game Animation jobs in Texas? The most popular types of Game Animation jobs in Texas are:
What are popular job titles related to Game Animation jobs in Texas? For Game Animation jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Game Animation jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Game Animation jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Game Animation jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Game Animation job openings:
Game Animation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Game Animation job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 13% Temporary. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $138,926 per year, or $66.8 per hour.
Animator [Contract] (Retro Studios)

Animator [Contract] (Retro Studios)

Nintendo

Austin, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Nintendo rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

87th of 209 rated software companies

Job description

RETRO STUDIOS:
Founded in 1998, Retro Studios is a wholly owned subsidiary of Nintendo Co., Ltd., and a powerhouse in game development. Working hand-in-hand with Nintendo, we craft award-winning titles for the company's cutting-edge platforms, blending innovation, artistry, and gameplay excellence.
Our home base is Austin, Texas, a vibrant city known for its creative energy, live music, stunning natural scenery, and forward-thinking culture. With year-round sunshine and endless options for outdoor adventures, Austin offers the perfect backdrop for world-class developers to stay inspired, balanced, and at the top of their game.
Retro Studios is looking for an Animator!
We are looking for someone who is passionate about quality and takes pride in their work. An animator who wants to be part of a creative and collaborative team. Someone who will be thrilled to work on Nintendo's awesome IPs!
We expect our animators to exhibit leadership qualities and encourage involvement and responsibility across wider aspects of the project.
DESCRIPTIONS OF DUTIES:
  • You will implement and maintain animations for a wide range of characters, creatures, bosses, cinematics and pretty much anything that moves.
  • You will be responsible for collaborating and sharing your ideas on animation as well as other aspects of our projects such as gameplay and story.
  • We will count on you to help us identify needs and propose solutions that will improve our production pipeline. We all use "Band-Aid solutions" from time to time, but we love forward thinkers, people who think long term.
  • Your feedback will be greatly appreciated, and you will get plenty of critique from others to help you grow your own skills.
  • You feel comfortable on the technical side of animation deployment. You don't have to be an expert rigger or scripter, but you know how to set up simple characters and are familiar with using a variety of tools to speed up your work process.
  • You are part of a creative team, the process of game making is dynamic, so it is important that you maintain familiarity with the game, the latest changes and updates.
  • You enjoy collaborating with other development disciplines, contributing your expertise and taking advantage of the expertise of others to achieve more together.
  • Did we mention how excited we are that you are considering this position?

*This job description outlines primary duties and requirements and is not intended to identify all tasks that may be performed; individuals occupying the position may be required to perform other duties. The company may modify job duties from time to time, either in practice or in writing.
SUMMARY OF REQUIREMENTS:
  • Minimum 5 years' experience with in-game and/or cinematic video game animation, including at least 2 full video game production cycles.
  • A robust portfolio that demonstrates a wide range of animation experience.
  • Considerable experience animating in Maya.
  • Undergraduate degree in art related subject or completion of an intensive art training program preferred. Specific experience can be substituted for formal education.
  • Effective written, verbal and interpersonal skills.

Retro Studios is an equal opportunity employer. We offer a welcoming and inclusive environment in service to one another, our products, the diverse consumers we represent, and the communities we call home. We do all of this with kindness, empathy, and respect for each

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