1

Game Animation Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Senior Cinematic Animator

Boston, MA · On-site

$115K - $131K/yr

Taking responsibility for the animation-related aspects of the game, including driving collaboration across disciplines to create the best possible player experience. * Estimating the time required ...

Senior Cinematic Animator

Boston, MA · Hybrid

$115K - $131K/yr

Taking responsibility for the animation-related aspects of the game, including driving collaboration across disciplines to create the best possible player experience. * Estimating the time required ...

Senior Cinematic Animator

Boston, MA · On-site

$115K - $131K/yr

Taking responsibility for the animation-related aspects of the game, including driving collaboration across disciplines to create the best possible player experience. * Estimating the time required ...

Senior Cinematic Animator

Boston, MA · On-site

$115K - $131K/yr

Taking responsibility for the animation-related aspects of the game, including driving collaboration across disciplines to create the best possible player experience. * Estimating the time required ...

New

Senior Cinematic Animator

Boston, MA · Hybrid

$115K - $131K/yr

Taking responsibility for the animation-related aspects of the game, including driving collaboration across disciplines to create the best possible player experience. * Estimating the time required ...

... game AI, 3D engines, WebGL, scripting systems, tools programming, CMS, animation tools, data visualization Preferred : • Experience with TypeScript and C++ • Experience with Pixi.js, React.js ...

Blender Tutor

Newton, MA · Remote

$40/hr

Ability to explain polygon modeling workflows, procedural texturing, and compositing while preparing students for 3D art, game development, animation, and visual effects careers. * Conceptual ...

Ability to explain polygon modeling workflows, procedural texturing, and compositing while preparing students for 3D art, game development, animation, and visual effects careers. * Conceptual ...

Blender Tutor

Lynn, MA · Remote

$40/hr

Ability to explain polygon modeling workflows, procedural texturing, and compositing while preparing students for 3D art, game development, animation, and visual effects careers. * Conceptual ...

Blender Tutor

Boston, MA · Remote

$40/hr

Ability to explain polygon modeling workflows, procedural texturing, and compositing while preparing students for 3D art, game development, animation, and visual effects careers. * Conceptual ...

Blender Tutor

Quincy, MA · Remote

$40/hr

Ability to explain polygon modeling workflows, procedural texturing, and compositing while preparing students for 3D art, game development, animation, and visual effects careers. * Conceptual ...

Blender Tutor

Lowell, MA · Remote

$40/hr

Ability to explain polygon modeling workflows, procedural texturing, and compositing while preparing students for 3D art, game development, animation, and visual effects careers. * Conceptual ...

Ability to explain polygon modeling workflows, procedural texturing, and compositing while preparing students for 3D art, game development, animation, and visual effects careers. * Conceptual ...

Blender Tutor

Waltham, MA · Remote

$40/hr

Ability to explain polygon modeling workflows, procedural texturing, and compositing while preparing students for 3D art, game development, animation, and visual effects careers. * Conceptual ...

Ability to explain polygon modeling, UV unwrapping, keyframe animation, and physically based rendering while preparing students for careers in architectural visualization, game asset creation, and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Game Animation information

See Boston, MA salary details

$51.1K

$169.5K

How much do game animation jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for game animation in Boston, MA is $162,002.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $168,400.00 and $168,400.00 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 job categories do people searching Game Animation jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Game Animation jobs in Boston, MA are:

Infographic showing various Game Animation job openings in Boston, MA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 64% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $162,002 per year, or $77.9 per hour.

Senior Cinematic Animator

Boston, MA • On-site

$115K - $131K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Company Description

To create revolutionary, story-driven RPGs which go straight to the hearts of gamers — this is our mission. Want to dive deeper into our company’s culture? Explore our social media and check out our YouTube channel and Beyond the Game Blog where we share behind-the-scenes insights and stories direct from our team members!

Job Description

We're looking for a Senior Cinematic Animator to join our team working out of our Boston office. This role is part of our team working on Cyberpunk 2- the follow-up to Cyberpunk 2077 and the next major video game in the Cyberpunk franchise. Contribute to a dynamic team by bringing characters to life in the narrative moments of the game. Collaborate closely with designers and other multidisciplinary team members to create immersive game content - from initial concepting, quest requirements, through mocap shoots, to finished animations. As a Senior Cinematic Animator, you'll be an integral part of the storytelling process, using your expertise to ensure that final scenes are not only visually stunning but also deeply engaging for players. As the project evolves, so will your responsibilities, offering you the chance to continually grow and adapt. If you are passionate about storytelling and animation, this is your opportunity to make a significant impact in the next Cyberpunk game. This role is based in our Boston office and follows a hybrid working model.

Daily Responsibilities

  • Being a game developer first, ensuring that your animations look and feel great while playing the game.
  • Collaborating daily with the Animation Lead and Cinematic Director.
  • Taking responsibility for the animation-related aspects of the game, including driving collaboration across disciplines to create the best possible player experience.
  • Estimating the time required to carry out own tasks and meeting deadlines.
  • Delivering work in accordance with the artistic direction of the project.
  • Prototyping and drafting animations to explore and validate new ideas.
  • Working on concepts and previzes for the narrative parts of the game to ensure a cohesive and engaging story experience.
  • Providing knowledge and solutions for everyday problems.
  • Creating final, high-quality narrative animation assets from scratch or motion capture data.
  • Sharing your experience and helping team members.
Qualifications
  • Passion for creating great games and a love for animation.
  • Experience working on at least two AAA titles.
  • An animation reel demonstrating senior-level skills with a clear explanation of contributions.
  • Outstanding creativity and a strong commitment to the project.
  • Solid knowledge of animation principles and an eye for dynamic poses.
  • Good instincts for realistic character movement and facial conveying emotions.
  • Understanding of camera movement, composition, and character performance to create visually compelling scenes.
  • Professional knowledge of Unreal Engine and Maya or Motion Builder.
  • Experience directing and working with motion capture and/or performance capture.
  • Capability to self-manage and make responsible decisions about time and project priorities.
  • Ability to work proactively in multidisciplinary teams.
  • Eagerness to receive, seek, and provide constructive feedback.
  • Ability to mentor less experienced peers.
  • Experience creating layouts or previzes is a plus.
  • Experience in developing animation pipelines and tools is a plus.
Additional Information

This job requires working in Boston, US. Working mode: in-office in a hybrid or full-time capacity. As part of our pre-employment process, candidates selected for this position will be required to complete a background check in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

Health & Well-Being

  • Company-paid medical healthcare (dental, vision, and mental).
  • Free mental health support, including access to counseling, psychiatric care, and a variety of well-being webinars.
  • Paid leave - 26 days of vacation, 10 sick days, & 12 calendar holidays per year.
  • 401K with employer matching.
  • Lifestyle Spending Account (LSA) – $100 per month to use towards fitness, wellness, internet, home office equipment, learning, streaming services, and more.
  • Menstrual leave — employees who menstruate can take one extra day off when experiencing period pain.
  • RED Parents Network — support for working parents, including childcare benefits, and family-friendly events.

Perks & Professional Growth

  • Flexible working hours.
  • Trainings, lectures, and courses — internal workshops, knowledge-sharing initiatives, online tutorials, and e-learning classes are all available.
  • A welcome pack filled with goodies — to help you feel right at home once you join the team.

Life in the Office

  • Dog-friendly office — bring your pooch with you and look after them while working! There’s always a furry friend or two to meet.
  • Truly international working environment — a chance to meet and work with a diverse selection of people from all around the world.
  • No dress-code — we like to keep it casual.

Estimated pay range for this position:$95,000 - $174,200USD annually

At CD PROJEKT RED compensation for our roles in North America are determined based on competitive market data, geographic location, and individual factors tied to business needs. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future. Final offers aredependent on job-related factors like experience, qualifications, and location.

If you've observed any irregularities (i.e. legal or ethical violations) in our recruitment process, please click here to report them anonymously.

Project: Cyberpunk 2

#J-18808-Ljbffr