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Maya Animation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ten4

Senior Gaming Animator

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$129K - $148K/yr

Experience with in-game animation and Maya * College/University Degree in Character Animation or similar * Full comprehension of camera, layout, and stagingS * Self-directed and independent worker ...

Epic Games

Technical Designer in Animation

Cary, NC · On-site

Expertise with animation pipelines, including source content creation tools such as Maya, MotionBuilder, and the Unreal Engine using our Control Rig toolset * Exceptional problem-solving ability with ...

Progressive Gaming

Animator

Reno, NV · On-site +1

$114K - $141K/yr

Strong portfolio/reel showcasing animation, timing, and visual storytelling * Expertise in 2D/3D tools (After Effects, Spine, Maya, Blender, etc.) * Experience creating animations in Unity or other ...

IGT

Animator

Reno, NV · On-site +1

$114K - $141K/yr

Strong portfolio/reel showcasing animation, timing, and visual storytelling * Expertise in 2D/3D tools (After Effects, Spine, Maya, Blender, etc.) * Experience creating animations in Unity or other ...

VG Systems

Animator / 3-D Modeler

Huntsville, AL

Proficiency in 3-D modeling and animation software (e.g., Maya, Blender, 3ds Max, or similar tools). * Strong understanding of animation principles, modeling techniques, and visual composition.

VG Systems

Animator / 3-D Modeler

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Proficiency in 3-D modeling and animation software (e.g., Maya, Blender, 3ds Max, or similar tools). * Strong understanding of animation principles, modeling techniques, and visual composition.

Progressive Gaming

Animator IV

Reno, NV · On-site +1

$105K - $120K/yr

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 ...

M&S Consulting

3D Animator

Pasadena, CA · On-site +1

Experience working across the full 3D pipeline: modeling, texturing/shading, lighting, rigging, animation, rendering, and compositing * Proficiency with tools such as Unreal Engine, Blender, Maya ...

M&S Consulting

3D Animator

Pasadena, CA · Remote

Experience working across the full 3D pipeline: modeling, texturing/shading, lighting, rigging, animation, rendering, and compositing * Proficiency with tools such as Unreal Engine, Blender, Maya ...

IGT

Animator IV

Reno, NV · On-site +1

$105K - $120K/yr

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 ...

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All JobsMaya Animation Jobs

Maya Animation information

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$10

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How much do maya animation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for maya 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.

Is there a demand for 3D animators?

Maya animators, as 3D animators using Maya software, are in demand across industries such as gaming, film, and advertising due to the growing need for high-quality visual effects and animated content. Strong skills in modeling, rigging, and rendering, along with a portfolio, can improve job prospects in this competitive field.

What jobs use Maya?

Jobs that use Maya include 3D animator, character animator, visual effects artist, and game developer. These roles typically require skills in 3D modeling, animation, and rendering, often using Maya software in film, television, gaming, and advertising industries.

What is Maya animation?

Maya animation refers to the process of creating animated sequences using Autodesk Maya, a leading 3D computer graphics and animation software. Artists use Maya to model, rig, animate, and render characters and environments for films, TV, video games, and commercials. The software offers a wide range of tools and features for keyframe animation, motion graphics, dynamics, and more, making it a popular choice among professional animators and studios worldwide.

Do animators use Maya?

Yes, Maya is a widely used software tool among animators, especially in 3D animation and character modeling roles. It offers advanced features for modeling, rigging, and rendering, making it a common choice in the industry for creating high-quality animations. Proficiency in Maya is often required or preferred for many animation jobs.

Does Disney still hire 2D animators?

Disney continues to hire 2D animators for certain projects, especially in legacy animation and specialized productions, though the company primarily focuses on 3D animation with tools like Maya and Toon Boom. Skilled 2D animators with strong traditional drawing and digital skills remain in demand for specific roles and independent projects.

What are some common challenges Maya Animators face when working on collaborative projects, and how can they be addressed?

Maya Animators often work in teams where clear communication and consistency are crucial, especially when multiple animators contribute to the same scene or character. Common challenges include managing version control, ensuring animation styles remain cohesive, and integrating feedback from directors or other departments. These challenges can be addressed by adhering to standardized naming conventions, using shared asset libraries, regularly updating project files, and participating in team reviews to align creative direction. Proactive communication and flexibility help maintain a smooth workflow and high-quality output.

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

To thrive as a Maya Animator, you need strong artistic skills, a solid understanding of animation principles, and proficiency in Autodesk Maya, often backed by a degree in animation or a related field. Mastery of Maya software, familiarity with rigging, rendering engines, and sometimes a knowledge of scripting languages like MEL or Python are typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and excellent communication help animators collaborate effectively and bring characters to life. These skills ensure high-quality, visually compelling animations that meet production standards and support team workflows.

What is the difference between Maya Animation vs 3D Modeler?

AspectMaya Animation3D Modeler
Primary FocusCreating animated sequences and character movementsDesigning and building 3D models and assets
Skills RequiredAnimation principles, rigging, keyframing, storytellingModeling techniques, topology, texturing, software proficiency
Work EnvironmentAnimation studios, VFX companies, game developmentDesign firms, game studios, VFX houses
CertificationsOften requires knowledge of Maya software, animation coursesProficiency in Maya, 3ds Max, Blender, with modeling certifications

While Maya Animation focuses on bringing characters and objects to life through movement, 3D Modelers concentrate on creating the detailed 3D assets used in animations and environments. Both roles often collaborate in the production pipeline, but their core skills and tasks differ significantly.

More about Maya Animation jobs
What cities are hiring for Maya Animation jobs? Cities with the most Maya Animation job openings:
What states have the most Maya Animation jobs? States with the most job openings for Maya Animation jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Maya Animation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Maya Animation jobs are:
Maya Animation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Maya Animation job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Internship, 65% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 70% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 27% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,974 per year, or $39.4 per hour.
Adjunct Faculty (Pool) - College of Entertainment and the Arts, Animation and Game Art

Adjunct Faculty (Pool) - College of Entertainment and the Arts, Animation and Game Art

Lipscomb University

Nashville, TN • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

The successful candidate for this adjunct posting could be asked to teach a range of aspects of the animation industry such as writing for animation, preproduction, 3D, 2D, motion graphics, VFX, compositing, visualization, and animation aesthetics using current industry-standard tools.
The successful candidate is expected to have experience with Adobe Creative Suite and other high-end 2D or 3D animation software.
Those with the following software/experience will receive special consideration: Autodesk Maya, Toon Boom Harmony, Maxon Red Giant, Unreal Engine, or VR/AR/MR/XR.
In addition, those with drawing and draftsmanship skills will receive special consideration.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
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About Lipscomb University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Born from the powerful vision of courageous leaders, Lipscomb University leads at the forefront as pioneers in Christ-centered higher education, magnifying the best in everyone we encounter on our campus, in our community and around the world. Forged by the trials and opportunities of 130 years of pursuing excellence in education, we continually reimagine and refine our methods to fulfill our mission—preparing learners for purposeful lives through rigorous academics and transformative experiences. Lipscomb offers an intellectually challenging academic program with a commitment to continual spiritual formation while engaging the world.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Nashville, TN, US

Year founded

1891

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