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Gaming Animation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Progressive Gaming

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 ...

teamLFG

Staff Gameplay Animator

OR · On-site +1

We are looking for someone that is excited about the creative art of animation and the technical challenge of turning that animation into world class action gameplay. As a Staff Animator on teamLFG ...

Insomniac Games

Senior Gameplay Animator (CONTRACT)

OR · On-site +1

$105K - $120K/yr

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 ...

Epic Games

Senior Technical Designer in Animation

Cary, NC · On-site

$98K - $112K/yr

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

teamLFG

Staff Gameplay Animator

$144K - $217K/yr

We are looking for someone that is excited about the creative art of animation and the technical challenge of turning that animation into world class action gameplay. As a Staff Animator on teamLFG ...

Insomniac Games

Senior Gameplay Animator (CONTRACT)

$76.92 - $86.06/hr

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 ...

Ember Lab

Senior Gameplay Animator

Orange, CA · On-site

$88K - $120K/yr

Contribute to the development of animation workflows and tools to streamline the animation process. * Stay up-to-date with industry trends and techniques to continually improve the quality of ...

Ember Lab

Senior Gameplay Animator

Orange, CA · On-site

$88K - $120K/yr

Contribute to the development of animation workflows and tools to streamline the animation process. * Stay up-to-date with industry trends and techniques to continually improve the quality of ...

IGT

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 ...

Ember Lab

Senior Gameplay Animator

Orange, CA · On-site

$88K - $120K/yr

Contribute to the development of animation workflows and tools to streamline the animation process. * Stay up-to-date with industry trends and techniques to continually improve the quality of ...

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 ...

Epic Games

Technical Designer in Animation

Cary, NC · On-site

Whether it's building award-winning games or crafting engine technology that enables others to make ... As a TDiA, you will use your animation sense and technical understanding of character animation to ...

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Gaming Animation information

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How much do gaming animation jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for gaming animation 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.

What is gaming animation?

Gaming animation refers to the process of creating and designing animated movements and actions for characters, objects, and environments in video games. Animators in this field use specialized software to bring digital assets to life, ensuring smooth and realistic motion that enhances the gaming experience. This role often involves collaborating with game designers, artists, and programmers to ensure animations fit the game's style and technical requirements. Gaming animators may work on everything from character walks and attacks to cinematic cutscenes and environmental effects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a gaming animator?

To thrive as a Gaming Animator, you need strong artistic skills in character movement, a solid understanding of animation principles, and typically a degree in animation or a related field. Proficiency with industry-standard software like Autodesk Maya, Blender, or 3ds Max, as well as experience with game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine, is essential. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective collaboration are crucial soft skills for bringing characters and worlds to life and working within multidisciplinary teams. These skills are important because they ensure immersive, high-quality animations that enhance gameplay and player experience.

How does a gaming animator typically collaborate with game designers and developers during the production process?

Gaming animators work closely with game designers and developers to ensure animations align with gameplay mechanics and narrative goals. Regular meetings and feedback sessions are common, where animators present their work, discuss technical constraints, and incorporate suggestions from designers and programmers. This collaborative environment helps maintain consistency across visual elements and ensures animations enhance the overall player experience. Effective communication and flexibility are essential, as priorities can shift based on testing and player feedback.

What is the difference between Gaming Animation vs 3D Character Artist?

AspectGaming Animation3D Character Artist
Required SkillsAnimation techniques, rigging, motion designModeling, texturing, character design
Work EnvironmentGame studios, animation departmentsGame studios, concept art teams
Common CertificationsAnimation software certifications (Maya, Blender)3D modeling certifications (ZBrush, Maya)
Industry UsageCreating animated characters and scenes in gamesDesigning detailed character models for games

Gaming Animation focuses on bringing characters and environments to life through movement and rigging, while 3D Character Artists specialize in creating detailed character models and textures. Both roles are essential in game development but serve different stages of character creation.

How to become a gaming animator?

To become a gaming 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 game animations and gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions can help establish your skills in the industry.

Is gaming animation a good career?

Gaming animation is a viable career for those with skills in 3D modeling, character design, and animation software such as Maya or Blender. It offers opportunities in the video game industry, film, and advertising, often requiring a strong portfolio and knowledge of industry-standard tools. Job prospects depend on experience, portfolio quality, and the ability to adapt to evolving technology and artistic trends.

What does a gaming animator do?

A gaming animator creates movement and visual effects for characters, objects, and environments in video games. They use animation software and skills in art, storytelling, and programming to bring game elements to life, often collaborating with designers and developers to ensure smooth, engaging gameplay. Proficiency in tools like Maya or Blender and understanding of game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine are essential for this role.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Gaming Animation jobs?

The most popular types of Gaming Animation jobs are:

What states have the most Gaming Animation jobs?

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What job categories do people searching Gaming Animation jobs look for?

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Gaming Animation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Gaming Animation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $81,974 per year, or $39.4 per hour.

Animator IV

Reno, NV • On-site, Remote

Progressive Gaming
See more jobs at Progressive Gamingexternal

$105K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

IGT, where innovation meets entertainment on a global scale!  From the casino floor to your mobile screen, we deliver thrilling, responsible, and unforgettable gaming experiences-powered by worldclass content, strong technical and commercial capabilities and nurtured by a culture of collaboration, accountability, and ownership.

 

Whether it's spinning reels, placing bets, or enabling secure payments, we turn innovation into impact through disciplined execution and longterm value creation. With a team of over 6,000 employees across 30+ countries and products delivered in more than 100 jurisdictions worldwide, we operate at scale while staying closely connected to costumers we serve. If you're ready to bring your talent to a team shaping the future of entertainment, your next big move starts here - www.igt.com.

Overview

Step into a lead role within IGT's Vibe Game Studio in Reno, Nevada, as an Animator IV, where your creativity, technical expertise, and artistic vision will help shape both our next generation of games and the culture of innovation within the studio. 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 mentoring and elevating fellow animators.

Working closely with Game Designers, Engineers, Technical Artists, and Art peers, you will drive a collaborative and holistic approach to game development that pushes the boundaries of casino gaming entertainment. Your contributions will directly support IGT's mission to pioneer the future of gaming by creating animations that captivate players, enhance gameplay, and deliver memorable experiences.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Create and lead the development of complex animations and dynamic visual effects for EGM (Electronic Gaming Machine) development, including both real-time and pre-rendered content.
  • Drive and collaborate on the creative vision for animation across multiple game development projects, establishing high standards for quality, style, and player engagement.
  • Develop storyboards, animatics, and gameplay sequences that maximize excitement and enhance the overall player experience.
  • Partner with cross-functional teams to define animation strategies, artistic direction, and final animation assets that align with gameplay and narrative goals.
  • Spearhead the creation of specialized animation techniques supporting advanced game mechanics such as progressive bonuses, jackpots, immersive bonus rounds, and attract sequences.
  • Mentor and coach junior animators, helping them refine their artistic skills and technical expertise while fostering a culture of growth and collaboration.
  • Review and provide feedback on animation assets from peers and junior team members to ensure successful integration into the game engine and adherence to visual and performance standards.
  • Play and evaluate games in studio test environments, Unity builds, and standalone game versions, providing constructive feedback to elevate animation quality and player impact.
  • Innovate new animation workflows, tools, and techniques, incorporating advanced visual effects such as particle systems and motion graphics to enhance gameplay experiences.
  • Ensure all animations maintain the intended tone, atmosphere, and visual integrity of the game experience, making adjustments and providing direction as needed.
  • Collaborate closely with Game Designers, Technical Artists, and Art peers to conceptualize animation sequences that strengthen storytelling, gameplay clarity, and player interaction.
Work Location

This role is based onsite at our Reno office. While it isn't remote-eligible, we welcome applicants who already live in Reno/surrounding areas or are excited about the opportunity to relocate.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Animation, Art, Game Design, or a related field - or equivalent professional experience.
  • 8+ years of professional animation experience, including at least 5 years focused on game development.
  • Proven success leading animation projects or mentoring teams within the gaming industry, particularly in EGMs or other real-time interactive experiences.
  • Strong demo reel showcasing visual storytelling, choreography, timing, and mastery of animation principles across effects, symbols, environments, and gameplay sequences.
  • Expert-level proficiency in 2D and 3D animation tools such as After Effects, Spine, Maya, and Blender.
  • Experience creating and implementing real-time animations in Unity.
  • Strong understanding of EGM-specific animation elements including reel spins, transitions, base and bonus features, math screens, attract sequences, and jackpot effects.
  • Familiarity with slot game or casino gaming animation pipelines, including integration into proprietary game engines and development platforms.
  • Exceptional attention to detail in animation principles, movement, composition, and timing within fast-paced production environments.
  • Animation test required as part of the interview process.
Keys to Success

 Building collaborative relationships
Decision making
Drive results
Foster innovation
Personal energy
Self-leadership
#LI-CK1

At IGT, we believe compensation should be as individual as you are, reflecting your skills, experience, background, and location. For this role, the starting compensation range is $117,400 to $145,450, with flexibility to adjust higher or lower based on the full scope of qualifications. We proudly comply with all applicable local pay transparency laws and collective bargaining agreements.

And compensation is just the beginning. Our Total Rewards program is designed to support your success, both professionally and personally, and may include:

  • Commission opportunities for eligible sales roles
  • Discretionary bonus potential for non-sales positions
  • Comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, accident, and disability insurance
  • A 401(k) Savings Plan with company contributions to help you plan for the future
  • Tuition reimbursement to support continued learning and growth
  • Paid time off to rest, recharge, and reset
  • Wellness programs that support your overall well-being
  • Identity theft protection for added peace of mind

Apply