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Game Animation Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Varsity Tutors

Blender Tutor

Oak Lawn, IL · Remote

$18 - $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 ...

Varsity Tutors

Blender Tutor

Lake Forest, IL · Remote

$18 - $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 ...

Varsity Tutors

Blender Tutor

Des Plaines, IL · Remote

$18 - $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 ...

Varsity Tutors

Blender Tutor

Evanston, IL · Remote

$18 - $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 ...

Varsity Tutors

Blender Tutor

Skokie, IL · Remote

$18 - $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 ...

Varsity Tutors

Blender Tutor

Buffalo Grove, IL · Remote

$18 - $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 ...

NxT Level

Technical Artist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $156K/yr

... games that push the boundaries of interactive entertainment. We respect our players and want to ... Work across several art disciplines including shading, environment art, character art, animation ...

Progressive Gaming

Artist Principal Lead

Chicago, IL

$130K - $156K/yr

... and unforgettable gaming experiences -powered by worldclass content , strong technical and ... Bachelor's Degree in Graphic Arts, 2D Animation, Motion Graphics, or similar discipline preferred ...

NxT Level

Technical Artist

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$130K - $156K/yr

... games that push the boundaries of interactive entertainment. We respect our players and want to ... Work across several art disciplines including shading, environment art, character art, animation ...

Varsity Tutors

Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor

Wheaton, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

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 ...

Varsity Tutors

Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor

Buffalo Grove, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

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 ...

Varsity Tutors

Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor

Skokie, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

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 ...

Varsity Tutors

Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor

Naperville, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

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 ...

Varsity Tutors

Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor

Schaumburg, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

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 ...

Varsity Tutors

Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor

Des Plaines, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

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 ...

Varsity Tutors

Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor

Oak Lawn, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

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 ...

Varsity Tutors

Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor

Evanston, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

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 ...

Varsity Tutors

Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor

Lake Forest, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

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 ...

Varsity Tutors

Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor

Chicago, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

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 ...

Progressive Gaming

Art Lead

Chicago, IL

$90K - $110K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Graphic Arts, Animation, Motion Graphics, or a related field preferred, or ... IGT is the global leader in gaming. For more information, please visit www.igt.com.

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsGame Animation JobsGame Animation Jobs in Chicago, IL

Game Animation information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$48.4K

$160.7K

How much do game animation jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for game animation in Chicago, IL is $153,613.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $159,700.00 and $159,700.00 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Game Animation jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Game Animation jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Game Animation jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Game Animation jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Game Animation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Game Animation job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $153,613 per year, or $73.9 per hour.

Blender Tutor

Varsity Tutors

Oak Lawn, IL • Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Varsity Tutors rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 24 rated private schools and tutoring

Job description

About the Job
The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online Blender tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have the flexibility to set your own schedule, earn competitive rates, and make a real impact on students' academic success and understanding. All from the comfort of your home.
Why Join Our Platform?
  • Earn incrementally higher pay for each session with the same student, reaching up to $40/hour.
  • Get paid up to twice per week, ensuring fast and reliable compensation for the tutoring sessions you conduct and invoice.
  • Set your own hours and tutor as much as you'd like.
  • Tutor remotely using our purpose-built Live Learning Platform. No commuting required.
  • Get matched with students best-suited to your teaching style and expertise.
  • Our AI-powered Tutor Copilot enhances your sessions with real-time instructional support, lesson generation, and engagement features, helping you save prep time and focus on impactful teaching.
  • We handle the logistics—you just invoice for your tutoring sessions, and we take care of payments.

What We Look For In a Blender Tutor
  • Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of Blender 3D modeling, sculpting, UV unwrapping, texturing, materials with shader nodes, lighting, rigging, animation, physics simulation, and rendering with Cycles and Eevee engines. Ability to explain polygon modeling workflows, procedural texturing, and compositing while preparing students for 3D art, game development, animation, and visual effects careers.
  • Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching 3D modeling techniques, material creation, and animation workflows in Blender. Guides students through box modeling, sculpting organic forms, unwrapping UVs, building shader node materials, setting up lighting, rigging characters, animating with keyframes, and rendering final output. Emphasizes understanding the full 3D production pipeline and connects Blender skills to indie game development, motion graphics, and digital art creation.
  • Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar with Blender curricula and common challenges such as navigating the interface, understanding 3D space manipulation, and creating clean topology for animation. Adapts instruction using progressive modeling tutorials, project-based learning, and render workflow exercises to support students from complete 3D beginners through advanced users developing professional modeling, animation, and rendering skills.
  • Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with, explain material using multiple approaches, and adapt instruction to meet individual learning needs and styles.
  • Strong communication skills and a friendly, engaging teaching style.
  • Ability to adapt to different learning styles and student needs.

Ways To Connect With Students
  • 1-on-1 Online Tutoring - Provide personalized instruction to individual students.
  • Instant Tutoring - Accept on-demand tutoring requests whenever you're available.

About Varsity Tutors And 1-on-1 Online Tutoring
Our mission is to transform the way people learn by leveraging advanced technology, AI, and the latest in learning science to create personalized learning experiences. Through 1-on-1 Online Tutoring, students receive customized instruction that helps them achieve their learning goals. Our platform is designed to match students with the right tutors, fostering better outcomes and a passion for learning.
Please note: Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Vermont, West Virginia or Puerto Rico.

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