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Game Animator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Progressive Gaming

Animator

Reno, NV · On-site +1

$114K - $141K/yr

You'll shape the look, feel, and energy of our games-owning animation from concept to final polish ... while collaborating with a passionate, cross-disciplinary team. What You'll Do * Create high-impact ...

Jobgether

Working within a collaborative game development environment, you will partner closely with artists, designers, and developers to create polished animations that align with the game's visual style and ...

PUBG Madglory

Mid-Level/Senior Animator

Madison, WI · On-site +1

$106K - $121K/yr

After the release of our flagship title in 2017 we have become one of the highest selling games of ... Defines animation direction and execution even in ambiguous situations. * Organizes direction and ...

IGT

Animator

Reno, NV · On-site +1

$114K - $141K/yr

You'll shape the look, feel, and energy of our games-owning animation from concept to final polish ... while collaborating with a passionate, cross-disciplinary team. What You'll Do * Create high-impact ...

Roblox

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 ...

Valicy

3D Animator

Greenville, NC

Job Title: 3D Animator Department: NC Art Location: Greenville, NC Reports To: Art Lead Status ... We make games. We also make the machines they run on. What we're building matters. How we treat ...

Leland

Animation & CGI Coach

$108K - $123K/yr

Coaches also guide students through CGI production and post-production workflows, animation software proficiency, and animation direction, while helping them explore paths in film animation, game ...

New

Epic Games

Technical Designer in Animation

Cary, NC · On-site

What You'll Do Epic Games is looking for a Technical Designer in Animation (TDiA) to join our team ... working across various animation systems. As a TDiA, you will use your animation sense and ...

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Game Animator information

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How much do game animator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for game animator in the United States is $39.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.88 and $63.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is 30 too late to become an animator?

Game animators can start at any age, and many successful professionals begin their careers later in life. Developing skills in animation software like Maya or Blender and building a strong portfolio are key steps, regardless of age. Age is less important than dedication, skill development, and experience in the industry.

What is the difference between Game Animator vs Character Animator?

AspectGame AnimatorCharacter Animator
Required CredentialsAnimation degree or related certification, portfolioAnimation degree, portfolio, sometimes specialized in character animation
Work EnvironmentVideo game studios, interactive mediaFilm, TV, video game studios, often focused on character movement
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in gaming industry, working on game assetsIn entertainment industry, focusing on character performance
Common Search & ComparisonGame Animator vs Character Animator

While both roles involve animation skills, a Game Animator specializes in creating animations for video games, including character, environment, and object movements. A Character Animator focuses specifically on bringing characters to life, often in film or TV, but also in games. The main difference lies in the scope and context of their work, with Game Animators working within interactive environments and Character Animators emphasizing performance and storytelling through character movement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Game Animator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Game Animator, you need a strong background in animation principles, 3D modeling, and an understanding of character movement, often supported by a degree in animation or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, and game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine is crucial, and knowledge of scripting languages can be beneficial. Creativity, attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to take feedback are important soft skills that help animators bring characters and environments to life. These skills ensure that animations are visually engaging, technically flawless, and seamlessly integrated into the gameplay experience.

Is game animation a good career?

Game animation is a viable career for those with skills in 3D modeling, rigging, and animation software such as Maya or Blender. It offers opportunities in the gaming, film, and entertainment industries, often requiring a strong portfolio and knowledge of storytelling and character movement. Job prospects depend on industry demand, technical proficiency, and the ability to work within team environments and deadlines.

What are game animators?

Game animators are professionals who create the movement and behavior of characters, objects, and environments in video games. They use specialized software to design animations that bring digital worlds to life, ensuring that character actions and environmental effects look natural and engaging. Game animators work closely with game designers, artists, and programmers to integrate their animations seamlessly into gameplay. Their work helps enhance storytelling, visual appeal, and the overall player experience.

How much does a game animator make?

The average salary for a game animator ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and skill level. Entry-level animators typically earn less, while those with specialized skills in tools like Maya or Blender and a strong portfolio can earn higher salaries, especially in larger studios or competitive markets.

How do Game Animators typically collaborate with other departments during the development process?

Game Animators work closely with game designers, character artists, and programmers to ensure that animations integrate smoothly into the game engine and support gameplay objectives. They frequently participate in cross-functional meetings to review animation progress, receive feedback, and adjust their work to meet creative and technical requirements. Effective communication is essential, as animators must balance artistic vision with technical constraints and gameplay needs, often iterating on their animations based on feedback from multiple teams.

Does Disney still hire 2D animators?

Disney continues to hire 2D animators for traditional animation projects, especially for legacy and specialty productions. However, the industry has shifted toward digital and 3D animation, so 2D roles are less common and often focused on specific artistic styles or nostalgic projects. Candidates with strong drawing skills and proficiency in animation software like Toon Boom or Adobe Animate remain valuable for such roles.
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Game Animator jobs near you
Animator [Contract] (Retro Studios)

Animator [Contract] (Retro Studios)

Nintendo of America Inc

Austin, TX • On-site

Contractor

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Nintendo rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

87th of 209 rated software companies

Job description

RETRO STUDIOS: Founded in 1998, Retro Studios is a wholly owned subsidiary of Nintendo Co., Ltd., and a powerhouse in game development. Working hand-in-hand with Nintendo, we craft award-winning titles for the company's cutting-edge platforms, blending innovation, artistry, and gameplay excellence. Our home base is Austin, Texas, a vibrant city known for its creative energy, live music, stunning natural scenery, and forward-thinking culture. With year-round sunshine and endless options for outdoor adventures, Austin offers the perfect backdrop for world-class developers to stay inspired, balanced, and at the top of their game. Retro Studios is looking for an Animator! We are looking for someone who is passionate about quality and takes pride in their work. An animator who wants to be part of a creative and collaborative team. Someone who will be thrilled to work on Nintendo's awesome IPs! We expect our animators to exhibit leadership qualities and encourage involvement and responsibility across wider aspects of the project. DESCRIPTIONS OF DUTIES: You will implement and maintain animations for a wide range of characters, creatures, bosses, cinematics and pretty much anything that moves. You will be responsible for collaborating and sharing your ideas on animation as well as other aspects of our projects such as gameplay and story. We will count on you to help us identify needs and propose solutions that will improve our production pipeline. We all use "Band-Aid solutions" from time to time, but we love forward thinkers, people who think long term. Your feedback will be greatly appreciated, and you will get plenty of critique from others to help you grow your own skills. You feel comfortable on the technical side of animation deployment. You don't have to be an expert rigger or scripter, but you know how to set up simple characters and are familiar with using a variety of tools to speed up your work process. You are part of a creative team, the process of game making is dynamic, so it is important that you maintain familiarity with the game, the latest changes and updates. You enjoy collaborating with other development disciplines, contributing your expertise and taking advantage of the expertise of others to achieve more together. Did we mention how excited we are that you are considering this position? *This job description outlines primary duties and requirements and is not intended to identify all tasks that may be performed; individuals occupying the position may be required to perform other duties. The company may modify job duties from time to time, either in practice or in writing. SUMMARY OF REQUIREMENTS: Minimum 5 years' experience with in-game and/or cinematic video game animation, including at least 2 full video game production cycles. A robust portfolio that demonstrates a wide range of animation experience. Considerable experience animating in Maya. Undergraduate degree in art related subject or completion of an intensive art training program preferred. Specific experience can be substituted for formal education. Effective written, verbal and interpersonal skills. Retro Studios is an equal opportunity employer. We offer a welcoming and inclusive environment in service to one another, our products, the diverse consumers we represent, and the communities we call home. We do all of this with kindness, empathy, and respect for each
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