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Game Animation Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Varsity Tutors

Blender Tutor

Detroit, MI · 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

Ann Arbor, MI · 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

Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor

Ann Arbor, MI · 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

Detroit, MI · 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 ...

Stardock Corporation

Senior Graphics Engineer

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$100K - $200K/yr

Stardock released the first DirectX 12 game as well as the first game to support both DirectX 12 ... Develop systems for animations and special effects. * Work with the technical art team to create ...

Stardock

Senior Graphics Engineer

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$100K/yr

Stardock released the first DirectX 12 game as well as the first game to support both DirectX 12 ... Develop systems for animations and special effects. * Work with the technical art team to create ...

Stardock Corporation

Senior Graphics Engineer

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$100K - $200K/yr

Stardock released the first DirectX 12 game as well as the first game to support both DirectX 12 ... Develop systems for animations and special effects. * Work with the technical art team to create ...

Virtual Producer

UNREAL Engine Developer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

... animation, physics, multiplayer/networking, or audio) Up-to-date with the latest gaming trends, techniques, best practices and technologies Ability to solve problems creatively and effectively A ...

New

Stellantis

UX/UI Visual Sr Designer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

Use motion graphics and animation to bring the interfaces to life and better communicate the ... Bachelor's degree in game design, Entertainment Design, Communications Design, Graphic Design, UX ...

Stellantis

UX Motion Design Lead

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$104K - $136K/yr

A bachelor's degree in Motion Design, Game design, Entertainment Design, Communications Design ... Use motion graphics and animation to bring the interfaces to life and better communicate the ...

Stellantis

UX/UI Visual Sr Designer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

Use motion graphics and animation to bring the interfaces to life and better communicate the ... Bachelor's degree in game design, Entertainment Design, Communications Design, Graphic Design, UX ...

General Motors

Senior Motion Designer

Warren, MI · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

... gaming, and consumer tech trends to influence major product decisions.**Your Skills & Abilities (Required Qualifications):*** **Motion, animation, or conceptual 3D*** **5+ years** of professional ...

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All JobsGame Animation JobsGame Animation Jobs in Detroit, MI

Game Animation information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$46.5K

$154.4K

How much do game animation jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for game animation in Detroit, MI is $147,621.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $153,400.00 and $153,400.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Game Animation jobs in Detroit, MI?

The most popular types of Game Animation jobs in Detroit, MI are:

What are popular job titles related to Game Animation jobs in Detroit, MI?

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

What job categories do people searching Game Animation jobs in Detroit, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Game Animation jobs in Detroit, MI are:

Game Animation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Game Animation job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,621 per year, or $71 per hour.

VR Unreal Engine Developer: Build Immersive Training

Virtual Producer

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

Other

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

We are looking for an Unreal Engine developer to create training experiences for Virtual Reality across multiple industries. Having some experience with immersive VR is a plus. You will be involved in various aspects of content creation from concept to finished product including coding, programming, audio, design, production and visual arts. Candidate must be able to update existing experiences, trouble shoot, and create an experience from start to finish. The majority of our experiences are created for HTC Vive Pro, Valve Index or other tethered VR.

Responsibilities

Translate requirements into complicated but clean and efficient code

Construct the base or the engine on which the game will run

Produce prototypes of gameplay ideas and features

Develop schedules and determine milestones

Generate game scripts and storyboards

Animate characters and objects is a plus

Produce Virtual Reality experiences.

Contribute to the design and audio features of the game

Create unit tests and validation procedures to assure quality

Detect identification and resolution and document technical specifications

“Polish” the game, maintain code, fix bugs and iron out occurring problems

Skills

Proven working experience in full lifecycle game development

Experience with Blueprint Scripting

Hands on experience primarily with C++ or other programming languages (Java, C, etc) is a plus

High level knowledge of APIs and libraries

Expert in one or more programming specialties (artificial intelligence, 3D Rendering, 3D animation, physics, multiplayer/networking, or audio)

Up-to-date with the latest gaming trends, techniques, best practices and technologies

Ability to solve problems creatively and effectively

A background in multi-player / networking is a plus.

Additional Attributes

Ability to work independently, as well as collaboratively, within a team

Ability to quickly learn new technologies as needed

Ability to work within budgets and with strict deadline requirements

Ability to manage multiple simultaneous projects working with supervisor to prioritize

Can effectively cope with change and shift gears comfortably

Can decide and act without having the total picture, handling risk and uncertainty

Comfortable participating in virtual meetings with internal and external stakeholders (camera on), and face-to-face communications

Conduct yourself with 100% integrity

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