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Game Animation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Gameplay Animator (CONTRACT)

OR · On-site +1

$105K - $120K/yr

Work with the Animation team to guarantee cohesive execution of the established animation direction across the game, providing constructive feedback as necessary. * Communicate effectively with other ...

Senior Gameplay Animator

OR · On-site +1

$105K - $120K/yr

Work with the Animation team to guarantee cohesive execution of the established animation direction across the game, providing constructive feedback as necessary. * Communicate effectively with other ...

Work with the Animation team to guarantee cohesive execution of the established animation direction across the game, providing constructive feedback as necessary. * Communicate effectively with other ...

Senior Gameplay Animator

Orange, CA · On-site

$88K - $120K/yr

... game project and relevant animation systems * Collaborate with the design and engineering teams to ensure animations align with gameplay mechanics and technical constraints. * Iterate and refine ...

Senior Gameplay Animator

Orange, CA · On-site

$88K - $120K/yr

... game project and relevant animation systems * Collaborate with the design and engineering teams to ensure animations align with gameplay mechanics and technical constraints. * Iterate and refine ...

Senior Gameplay Animator

Orange, CA · On-site

$88K - $120K/yr

... game project and relevant animation systems * Collaborate with the design and engineering teams to ensure animations align with gameplay mechanics and technical constraints. * Iterate and refine ...

$25K - $40K/mo

Work with the Animation team to guarantee cohesive execution of the established animation direction across the game, providing constructive feedback as necessary.* Communicate effectively with other ...

Senior Gameplay Animator

Orange, CA · On-site

$88K - $120K/yr

... game project and relevant animation systems * Collaborate with the design and engineering teams to ensure animations align with gameplay mechanics and technical constraints. * Iterate and refine ...

Senior Gameplay Animator

$108K - $123K/yr

Work with the Animation team to guarantee cohesive execution of the established animation direction across the game, providing constructive feedback as necessary. * Communicate effectively with other ...

Inspiring and guiding the animation discipline, setting the creative vision and quality bar for characters and combat in a competitive multiplayer game. * Leading and mentoring a lean animation team ...

Inspiring and guiding the animation discipline, setting the creative vision and quality bar for characters and combat in a competitive multiplayer game. * Leading and mentoring a lean animation team ...

What You'll Do Epic Games is looking for a Character Animation Director to join our Special Projects team to help drive the vision and execution of character animation across experimental and ...

Showing results 21-40

Game Animation information

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$47K

$156K

How much do game animation jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for game animation in the United States is $149,118.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $155,000.00 and $155,000.00 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.
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What states have the most Game Animation jobs?

States with the most job openings for Game Animation jobs include:

Infographic showing various Game Animation job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 60% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $149,118 per year, or $71.7 per hour.

Senior Gameplay Animator (CONTRACT)

OR • On-site, Remote

$105K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

This position is for temporary engagement through our staffing partner, Yoh Enterprise Solutions. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States for this position.

Insomniac Games is looking for a new Senior Gameplay Animator. The Senior Gameplay Animator is responsible for creating gameplay animation at the highest quality level set by Lead Animators and Animation Directors. They collaborate closely with other disciplines to ensure that animations are integrated into the game, supporting the creative, narrative vision, and technical requirements. The Senior Animator works independently requiring minimal supervision. 

 Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following:  

  • Develop high-quality animations for gameplay characters, ensuring alignment with artistic direction and technical standards. 
  • Collaborate with Designers and Programmers to implement animations in engine using expert skills in Maya and proprietary engine tools.
  • Independently troubleshoot and resolve issues that arise.
  • Ability to utilize motion capture data and hand key animation to create believable characters.
  • Gameplay responsibilities can include hero traversal, combat, boss, gameplay camera cinematography, mission and open world animations at the highest level using advanced skills in game engine tools.
  • Work with the Animation team to guarantee cohesive execution of the established animation direction across the game, providing constructive feedback as necessary.
  • Communicate effectively with other disciplines, including Designers, Programmers, Writers, Project Managers, Art, Audio, Character and Rigging teams, to resolve issues and achieve project goals.
  • Other duties may be assigned

Qualifications To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Mathematical Skills: Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, interest, commissions, proportions, percentages, area, circumference, and volume. Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry. 

Computer Skills: Advanced knowledge of Maya, Insomniac proprietary tools (preferred), and a knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite. MotionBuilder and Adobe Premiere a plus. Knowledge of common state machine flow in any game engine required.