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Game Animation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

3D Animator (Short Term)

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$9.1K - $11K/mo

Strong experience in character animation , with a focus on creating believable, game-ready locomotion and action animations * Excellent acting skills through motion-conveying emotion, weight, timing ...

Animator IV

Reno, NV · On-site +1

$105K - $120K/yr

In this senior-level role, you will lead animation efforts from concept to final implementation, establishing the visual tone and quality standards for groundbreaking gaming experiences while ...

About NetEase Games: As a leading internet technology company based in China, NetEase, Inc. (NASDAQ ... Define asset output specifications and coordinate outsourced animation production to maintain ...

Work with the animation lead on tool, system and game play prototypes. * Collaborate with the Tech Art Team in the development tools that support the animation pipeline. * Collaborate with Design ...

Work with the animation lead on tool, system and game play prototypes. Collaborate with the Tech Art Team in the development tools that support the animation pipeline. Collaborate with Design ...

Work with the animation lead on tool, system and game play prototypes. Collaborate with the Tech Art Team in the development tools that support the animation pipeline. Collaborate with Design ...

Animator IV

Reno, NV · On-site +1

$105K - $120K/yr

In this senior-level role, you will lead animation efforts from concept to final implementation, establishing the visual tone and quality standards for groundbreaking gaming experiences while ...

Lead Animator

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$123K - $182K/yr

Develop quick animation prototypes for new gameplay features, such as combat abilities, character actions, or animatic sequences. Help define, maintain, and elevate the animation style and quality ...

Lead Animator

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$123K - $182K/yr

Develop quick animation prototypes for new gameplay features, such as combat abilities, character actions, or animatic sequences. Help define, maintain, and elevate the animation style and quality ...

Lead Animator

Novato, CA · Remote

$123K - $182K/yr

Deep knowledge of gameplay and AI animation systems, animation graph/data integration, motion capture pipelines, and rigging/prototyping processes. * Strong practical skill in hand-key facial ...

Lead Animator

Novato, CA · On-site

$123K - $182K/yr

Deep knowledge of gameplay and AI animation systems, animation graph/data integration, motion capture pipelines, and rigging/prototyping processes. * Strong practical skill in hand-key facial ...

Lead Animator

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$123K - $182K/yr

Develop quick animation prototypes for new gameplay features, such as combat abilities, character actions, or animatic sequences. * Help define, maintain, and elevate the animation style and quality ...

Lead Animator

Novato, CA · On-site

$123K - $182K/yr

Deep knowledge of gameplay and AI animation systems, animation graph/data integration, motion capture pipelines, and rigging/prototyping processes. * Strong practical skill in hand-key facial ...

Lead Animator

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$123K - $182K/yr

Develop quick animation prototypes for new gameplay features, such as combat abilities, character actions, or animatic sequences. * Help define, maintain, and elevate the animation style and quality ...

Lead Animator

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$123K - $182K/yr

Develop quick animation prototypes for new gameplay features, such as combat abilities, character actions, or animatic sequences. * Help define, maintain, and elevate the animation style and quality ...

Lead Animator

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$123K - $182K/yr

Develop quick animation prototypes for new gameplay features, such as combat abilities, character actions, or animatic sequences. * Help define, maintain, and elevate the animation style and quality ...

Lead Animator

Novato, CA

$123K - $182K/yr

Deep knowledge of gameplay and AI animation systems, animation graph/data integration, motion capture pipelines, and rigging/prototyping processes. * Strong practical skill in hand-key facial ...

Showing results 41-60

Game Animation information

See salary details

$47K

$156K

How much do game animation jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 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.
More about Game Animation jobs

What cities are hiring for Game Animation jobs?

Cities with the most Game Animation job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Game Animation jobs?

The most popular types of Game Animation jobs are:

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $149,118 per year, or $71.7 per hour.

ViewModel Animator (Apex Legends)

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Electronic Arts Inc.
PC Games • 10K+ employees

$42 - $63/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

General Information
Locations: Vancouver - Great Northern Way, British Columbia, Canada
  • Location: Los Angeles - Chatsworth
  • State: California
  • Country: United States of America

Role ID
215308
Worker Type
Regular Employee
Studio/Department
EA Studios - Respawn
Work Model
Hybrid
Description & Requirements
Electronic Arts creates next-level entertainment experiences that inspire players and fans around the world. Here, everyone is part of the story. Part of a community that connects across the globe. A place where creativity thrives, new perspectives are invited, and ideas matter. A team where everyone makes play happen.
Founded in 2010 by the original creators of the Call of Duty Franchise, Respawn was created with the philosophy that when talented people have creative freedom, they'll make extraordinary games that achieve the unexpected. From our roots as an indie studio to joining the expansive roster of studios at Electronic Arts, this remains our guiding principle. We truly love what we do and want to share our passion with players worldwide. Our shipped titles include critically acclaimed multi-platform games Apex Legends, Titanfall, Titanfall 2, Star Wars™ Jedi: Fallen Order, Star Wars™ Jedi: Survivor and Medal of Honor: Above and Beyond. Join us for the opportunity to create groundbreaking games with some of the best developer talent in the industry.
You can learn more about our studio and values at respawn.com/studio.
We are looking for a talented and experienced Viewmodel Animator to join the Apex Legends Animation team. You are passionate about making games in a collaborative environment, working with a team of experienced developers to craft immersive, player-first experiences. In this role, you will realize high-quality first-person animations that bring our gameplay to life.
What you'll do...
  • Deliver powerful, memorable first-person animation performances from initial blockout to final polish, with style and personality.
  • Work with Designers and members of all disciplines cross-discipline teams to ensure that we achieve responsive, immersive gameplay that feels rewarding to our players.
  • Maintain communication across all relevant disciplines (production, design, art, audio, VFX) throughout the development of your areas of responsibility.
  • Help to establish efficient pipelines and procedures across the animation teams
  • Be proactive in assessing and evolving both workflow and player experience for Apex Legends.

Ideally you have...
  • 2+ years of professional game development experience
  • A strong understanding of video game animation development
  • Proficiency in a 3D animation package such as Autodesk Maya
  • Examples of high fidelity first person viewmodel animation and a range of expressive personality and grounded body mechanics
  • Experience working with other domains-especially Designers, Engineers and Artists
  • A proactive work ethic and a sense of responsibility for the continued success of Apex Legends

Pay Transparency - North America
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
The ranges listed below are what EA in good faith expects to pay applicants for this role in these locations at the time of this posting. If you reside in a different location, a recruiter will advise on the applicable range and benefits. Pay offered will be determined based on a number of relevant business and candidate factors (e.g. education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, or business needs).
PAY RANGES
* British Columbia (depending on location e.g. Vancouver vs. Victoria) *$77,700 - $107,900 CAD
* California (depending on location e.g. Los Angeles vs. San Francisco) *$42 - $63 USD
Pay is just one part of the overall compensation at EA.
For Canada, we offer a package of benefits including vacation (3 weeks per year to start), 10 days per year of sick time, paid top-up to EI/QPIP benefits up to 100% of base salary when you welcome a new child (12 weeks for maternity, and 4 weeks for parental/adoption leave), extended health/dental/vision coverage, life insurance, disability insurance, retirement plan to regular full-time employees. Certain roles may also be eligible for bonus and other incentive programs.
In the US, we offer a package of benefits including paid time off (3 weeks per year to start), 80 hours per year of sick time, 16 paid company holidays per year, 10 weeks paid time off to bond with baby, medical/dental/vision insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, and 401(k) to regular full-time employees.
About Electronic Arts
We're proud to have an extensive portfolio of games and experiences, locations around the world, and opportunities across EA. We value adaptability, resilience, creativity, and curiosity. From leadership that brings out your potential, to creating space for learning and experimenting, we empower you to do great work and pursue opportunities for growth.
We adopt a holistic approach to our benefits programs, emphasizing physical, emotional, financial, career, and community wellness to support a balanced life. Our packages are tailored to meet local needs and may include healthcare coverage, mental well-being support, retirement savings, paid time off, family leaves, complimentary games, and more. We nurture environments where our teams can always bring their best to what they do.
Electronic Arts is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, genetic information, religion, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, marital status, family status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We will also consider employment qualified applicants with criminal records in accordance with applicable law. EA also makes workplace accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities as required by applicable law.