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Key Animator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PlayStation Global

Senior Cinematic Animator

$76.92 - $86.06/hr

Develop high-quality cinematic animation content using both motion capture and hand-key techniques, ensuring alignment with schedule and performance benchmarks. * Collaborate closely with Animation ...

2K

Senior Technical Animation Designer

San Mateo, CA

$108K - $161K/yr

Work with key stakeholders to define goals and implement scalable solutions that streamline animation content creation and integration. * Take initiative in building and refining animation systems ...

2K

Senior Technical Animation Designer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$108K - $161K/yr

Work with key stakeholders to define goals and implement scalable solutions that streamline animation content creation and integration. * Take initiative in building and refining animation systems ...

Hearst

Senior Social Editor & Animator

New York, NY · Hybrid

$88K - $94K/yr

From AI-enhanced storytelling to scroll-stopping animations, this role is at the cutting edge of ... Key Responsibilities (What You're Doing) * Edit and design social-first branded content including ...

Hearst

Senior Social Editor & Animator

Manhattan, NY · Hybrid

$88K - $94K/yr

From AI-enhanced storytelling to scroll-stopping animations, this role is at the cutting edge of ... Key Responsibilities (What You're Doing) * Edit and design social-first branded content including ...

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How much do key animator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for key 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.

What is a typical workflow for a Key Animator on an animation project?

As a Key Animator, your typical workflow involves receiving storyboards or layouts, creating key frames that define critical poses or movements, and collaborating closely with directors and other animators to maintain the animation’s style and timing. You’ll often review and adjust your work based on feedback, ensuring consistency and fluidity before handing off sequences to in-between animators. Communication and regular check-ins with other departments, such as layout and clean-up, are common to align on visual direction. This process requires both creative input and technical accuracy to bring animated sequences to life as envisioned.

What does a Key Animator do?

A Key Animator is responsible for creating the primary frames of an animation, known as keyframes, which define the movement and actions of characters or objects. They establish the foundation for the animation by setting poses and timing, ensuring smooth transitions between frames. Key Animators work closely with directors and animation teams to maintain consistency and quality. Their work is crucial in bringing scenes to life by emphasizing motion, emotion, and storytelling within an animation project.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Key Animator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Key Animator, you need advanced drawing skills, a strong understanding of animation principles, and relevant experience or a degree in animation or a related field. Proficiency with industry-standard software such as Adobe Animate, Toon Boom Harmony, or TVPaint is typically required. Attention to detail, creative problem solving, and the ability to collaborate and communicate effectively are important soft skills. These capabilities ensure high-quality animation sequences and efficient teamwork within fast-paced production schedules.

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Key Animator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Key Animator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,974 per year, or $39.4 per hour.

Lead 3D Animator - Virtual Reality

Immersive Entertainment

Irvine, CA

Contractor

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Company Description

We create next-generation Virtual Reality Content that represents a new form of entertainment. We bridge the gap between video games and movies, providing a level of immersion, emotional engagement and realism never before seen.

Job Description
  • Creation of high quality game animations in collaboration with concept artists and CCO
  • Define the animation pipelines for maximum quality and efficiency
  • Leading the animation team
  • Ensure animation deliverables meet project defined timelines and budgets
  • Set quality standards for animation on the project
  • Set up a system to share knowledge and techniques across the studio
  • Mentoring animators


Qualifications
  • 5+ years of experience in game development
  • Expert knowledge in key frame creature & character animation of Max/Maya using FK and IK in a variety of styles
  • Expertise in knowledge of creature anatomy, motion, weight, acting and timing applied to 3D animation
  • Understanding of game animation practices and standards
  • Foundational knowledge of composition, editing and cinematic storytelling
  • Exceptional skill in animating realistic creatures
  • Create unique and innovative solutions for solving character animation issues
  • Experience with both motion capture in key frame techniques
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Attention to detail
  • English language
  • Strong team player and leader by example
Additional Information

Pluses

  • Shipped AAA PC or console titles as a Senior 3D Animator
  • Work experience with Unreal Engine 4
  • Understanding the difference between developing for VR compared to traditional game development.
  • A passion for developing and playing virtual reality experiences


Apply