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Game Animation Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Apex Systems

CINEMATICS CUTSCENE ANIMATOR

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$70 - $110/hr

Experience: 2+ years of relevant animation experience in gaming. * Technical Skills: Strong portfolio demonstrating skills in performance animation, both body and face. * Proficiency in lip sync ...

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Holospark

Gameplay Engineer

Bellevue, WA · On-site

Work directly with game designers, animators, and other engineers to deliver state-of-the-art gameplay features. * Integrate with first and third party services to give our players a seamless ...

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All JobsGame Animation JobsGame Animation Jobs in Seattle, WA

Game Animation information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$53.5K

$177.5K

How much do game animation jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for game animation in Seattle, WA is $169,700.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $176,400.00 and $176,400.00 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 popular job titles related to Game Animation jobs in Seattle, WA?

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

What job categories do people searching Game Animation jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Game Animation jobs in Seattle, WA are:

Game Animation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Game Animation job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $169,700 per year, or $81.6 per hour.

Technical Animator - Unreal 4

8 Circuit Studios, Inc.

Seattle, WA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Do you love working with and empowering animators by providing them the tools necessary to bring characters to life? Are you passionate about working at the cutting edge of story telling mediums and working in a highly technical environment? Do you have experience working with motion capture teams? Are you comfortable collaborating with game developers in the Unreal pipeline? If so, we may have the role for you. 


We are looking to hire a Rigger and/or a Technical Animator to kickstart our gameplay animation team. You would work closely with Art and Production to produce in-game content and cinematics.


Responsibilities

  • Experience with Keyframe animation and motion capture data, with fundamental animation principles
  • Support and improve the integration of animation assets from Maya (or equivalent 3D tools) to Unreal Engine 4
  • Contribute to improving the animation pipeline
  • Own the skinning process for a variety of characters, weapons, garments and gear
  • Manage code and content delivery with Perforce
  • Document process

Requirements

  • Character rigging and skinning capabilities
  • Keyframe experience a big plus for placeholder sets
  • Facial rigging experience a plus
  • UE4 experience

Please include work examples with application.


About 8 Circuit Studios

With 8 Circuit Studios, you would be joining a team that has big aspirations. Our dream is to create games that make you think while becoming wildly successful in the enterprise. We are fired up to make our mark in the video game industry with our first PC, XBox, and PS4/5 title called Project Genesis.


We are currently self-funded and looking to accomplish the impossible: create live-service title that can compete with AAA games…but at a fraction of the cost in time, talent, and treasure. We expect a lot from each other, but we also have a passion for creating a supportive environment where you can learn as you go and level-up as much as you’d like.


We love to share knowledge and expertise.


In the not too distant future, we anticipate scaling our team up so now is the perfect time for you to consider applying as we prepare the team to go stratospheric.

Apply