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 ...
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 ...
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
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
$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
$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
$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
$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 ...
Animation Engineer - EmptyVessel
Austin, TX · On-site +1
Empty Vessel is an emerging game development studio focusing on immersive gaming experiences. With ... We are seeking 1-2 mid-level Animation Engineers with exceptional Unreal Engine 5 expertise to join ...
Animation Engineer - EmptyVessel
Austin, TX · On-site +1
Empty Vessel is an emerging game development studio focusing on immersive gaming experiences. With ... We are seeking 1-2 mid-level Animation Engineers with exceptional Unreal Engine 5 expertise to join ...
Animation Systems Programmer
Larkspur, CA · On-site
$167K - $245K/yr
What You'll Do Epic Games is looking for an experienced Animation Systems Programmer for our ... Special Projects team. As a member of our team, you will play a critical role in driving future ...
Animation Systems Programmer
Larkspur, CA · On-site
$167K - $245K/yr
What You'll Do Epic Games is looking for an experienced Animation Systems Programmer for our ... Special Projects team. As a member of our team, you will play a critical role in driving future ...
Mid-Level/Senior Animator
Madison, WI · On-site +1
$106K - $121K/yr
Build gameplay animation workflows for combat, locomotion, and interaction. * Collaborate with Design, Programming, and TA to ensure animations function correctly within game systems. * Review ...
Mid-Level/Senior Animator
Madison, WI · On-site +1
$106K - $121K/yr
Build gameplay animation workflows for combat, locomotion, and interaction. * Collaborate with Design, Programming, and TA to ensure animations function correctly within game systems. * Review ...
ViewModel Animator (Apex Legends)
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
$42 - $63/hr
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 ...
ViewModel Animator (Apex Legends)
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
$42 - $63/hr
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 ...
Our app allows people to compete with each other playing simple games like replicas of Candy Crush ... We are looking for an animation designer who can turn static assets into animated assets. This ...
Our app allows people to compete with each other playing simple games like replicas of Candy Crush ... We are looking for an animation designer who can turn static assets into animated assets. This ...
Our app allows people to compete with each other playing simple games like replicas of Candy Crush ... We are looking for an animation designer who can turn static assets into animated assets. This ...
Our app allows people to compete with each other playing simple games like replicas of Candy Crush ... We are looking for an animation designer who can turn static assets into animated assets. This ...
Technical Animator - Unreal 4
Seattle, WA · On-site
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 ...
Technical Animator - Unreal 4
Seattle, WA · On-site
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
Technical Animator (Animation Blueprints & Control Rig) - Remote or On-Site
Seattle, WA · On-site +1
$70K - $90K/yr
Survival Evolved -- one of the most popular and original video games in recent years. Despite our ... You will own high-impact animation systems that bring creatures, characters, and gameplay to life.
Technical Animator (Animation Blueprints & Control Rig) - Remote or On-Site
Seattle, WA · On-site +1
$70K - $90K/yr
Survival Evolved -- one of the most popular and original video games in recent years. Despite our ... You will own high-impact animation systems that bring creatures, characters, and gameplay to life.
Technical Animator (Animation Blueprints & Control Rig) - Remote or On-Site
Seattle, WA · On-site +1
Survival Evolved -- one of the most popular and original video games in recent years. Despite our ... You will own high-impact animation systems that bring creatures, characters, and gameplay to life.
Technical Animator (Animation Blueprints & Control Rig) - Remote or On-Site
Seattle, WA · On-site +1
Survival Evolved -- one of the most popular and original video games in recent years. Despite our ... You will own high-impact animation systems that bring creatures, characters, and gameplay to life.
Survival Evolved -- one of the most popular and original video games in recent years. Despite our ... You will own high-impact animation systems that bring creatures, characters, and gameplay to life.
Quick apply
Survival Evolved -- one of the most popular and original video games in recent years. Despite our ... You will own high-impact animation systems that bring creatures, characters, and gameplay to life.
Survival Evolved -- one of the most popular and original video games in recent years. Despite our ... You will own high-impact animation systems that bring creatures, characters, and gameplay to life.
Quick apply
Survival Evolved -- one of the most popular and original video games in recent years. Despite our ... You will own high-impact animation systems that bring creatures, characters, and gameplay to life.
Gaming Animation information
See salary details
$15.67 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$10.58 - $16
27% of jobs
$16 - $21.42
0% of jobs
$21.42 - $26.84
19% of jobs
The median wage is $28.50 / hr.
$26.84 - $32.26
14% of jobs
$32.26 - $37.67
4% of jobs
$37.67 - $43.09
0% of jobs
$43.09 - $48.51
0% of jobs
$48.51 - $53.93
0% of jobs
$59.11 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$53.93 - $59.35
12% of jobs
$59.35 - $64.77
6% of jobs
$64.77 - $70.19
18% of jobs
$10
$39
$70
How much do gaming animation jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 12, 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.
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 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.
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 entertainment sectors, often requiring a strong portfolio and knowledge of industry tools. Job prospects depend on experience, portfolio quality, and industry demand, with roles typically involving creative and technical skills.
What is the difference between Gaming Animation vs 3D Character Artist?
| Aspect | Gaming Animation | 3D Character Artist |
|---|---|---|
| Required Skills | Animation techniques, rigging, motion design | Modeling, texturing, character design |
| Work Environment | Game studios, animation departments | Game studios, concept art teams |
| Common Certifications | Animation software certifications (Maya, Blender) | 3D modeling certifications (ZBrush, Maya) |
| Industry Usage | Creating animated characters and scenes in games | Designing 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.
What does a gaming animator do?
A gaming animator creates and brings to life characters, objects, and environments in video games through the use of animation software and techniques. They work closely with game designers and programmers to ensure animations are smooth, realistic, and fit within the game's style, often using tools like Maya or Blender. Strong artistic skills, understanding of motion, and knowledge of game development pipelines are essential for this role.
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.
More about Gaming Animation jobs
What cities are hiring for Gaming Animation jobs? Cities with the most Gaming Animation job openings:
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? States with the most job openings for Gaming Animation jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Gaming Animation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Gaming Animation jobs are:
Job description
We're seeking a talented Senior 3D Animator to join our team at Roblox for a 6-month engagement. You'll focus on creating high-quality, foundational character animations for the Roblox platform-specifically basic ability and locomotion sets that bring avatars to life with polish and personality.
This is an exciting opportunity to contribute directly to core Roblox avatar experiences used by millions of players worldwide.
You Will:- Create and refine a suite of standard locomotion and ability animations, including:
- Idle poses (variations for personality/stance)
- Walk, run, sprint cycles
- Jump, land, fall animations
- Other basic movement/ability actions as needed
- Deliver clean, weighty, and expressive animations optimized for Roblox's avatar system (R15 preferred)
- Iterate quickly based on feedback from animation leads, designers, and engineers
- Export animations properly for Roblox Studio integration (using compatible formats and best practices)
- Use SyncSketch (or similar) for review and approval workflows
- 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, and personality in movement
- Proficiency in FACS-based facial animation (Facial Action Coding System) or equivalent high-quality facial rigging/expression work
- Expert-level skills in Autodesk Maya for animation production and Tools
- Familiarity with SyncSketch (or comparable online review/approval tools)
- Proven track record creating animations for video games (mobile, PC, or console experience a plus)
- Strong sense of timing, weight, anticipation, follow-through, and polish in game animation principles
About ROBLOX
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Software development
Company size
51 - 200 Employees
Headquarters location
San Mateo, CA, US
Year founded
2004