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Pipeline Developer Animation Jobs in Chicago, IL

NxT Level

Technical Artist

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$130K - $156K/yr

Work with engineering and art teams to develop custom shaders from scratch * Work across several ... Understanding of animation pipelines, including character and environment systems * Strong ...

NxT Level

Technical Artist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $156K/yr

Work with engineering and art teams to develop custom shaders from scratch * Work across several ... Understanding of animation pipelines, including character and environment systems * Strong ...

TransPerfect

Marketing Lead

Chicago, IL · On-site

As a leading provider of world-class art, animation, VFX, and engineering services for the video ... Optimize content and campaigns for lead generation, conversion, and pipeline acceleration. Events ...

TransPerfect

Marketing Lead

Chicago, IL · On-site

As a leading provider of world-class art, animation, VFX, and engineering services for the video ... Optimize content and campaigns for lead generation, conversion, and pipeline acceleration. Events ...

PriceLabs

Senior, Market Insights (Remote)

Chicago, IL · Remote

$109K - $124K/yr

You will own the data insight narrative pipeline, applying consulting-grade rigor and strong data ... You don't need to be an AI engineer, but you should already be reaching for these tools ...

All JobsPipeline Developer Animation JobsPipeline Developer Animation Jobs in Chicago, IL

Pipeline Developer Animation information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$5

$52

$64

How much do pipeline developer animation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for pipeline developer animation in Chicago, IL is $52.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54.95 and $60.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Pipeline Developer in Animation, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pipeline Developer in Animation, you need strong programming skills (especially in Python), understanding of animation workflows, and a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard tools like Maya, Houdini, Shotgun, and version control systems is typically required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication set standout candidates apart in this role. These skills ensure the smooth integration and automation of processes, enabling artists and technical teams to work efficiently and deliver high-quality animated content.

What are Pipeline Developers in Animation?

Pipeline Developers in animation are technical professionals who design, implement, and maintain the software tools and workflows that connect various stages of the animation production process. They ensure that artists, animators, and technical directors can move assets and data seamlessly between different software applications and departments. Their work helps to automate repetitive tasks, fix bottlenecks, and improve production efficiency. Pipeline Developers often write scripts, develop plugins, and provide technical support to the team throughout the animation pipeline.

What kind of jobs in media bring in $150,000 a year?

In media, high-paying roles like senior pipeline developers or lead animation engineers can earn $150,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in scripting and software tools, and working in large studios or production companies. These positions often require strong technical expertise, knowledge of animation pipelines, and sometimes certifications or specialized training.

What is the difference between Pipeline Developer Animation vs Pipeline TD?

AspectPipeline Developer AnimationPipeline TD
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, Animation, or related fieldBachelor's in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field
Work EnvironmentAnimation studios, VFX companies, game developmentVFX studios, animation houses, game studios
Industry UsageFocuses on animation pipeline tools and workflowsFocuses on technical pipeline automation and software integration

While both roles involve pipeline development, the Pipeline Developer Animation specializes in creating and maintaining workflows specific to animation and visual effects, whereas the Pipeline TD focuses on automating and integrating technical pipelines across various production stages. Both roles require strong scripting skills and industry experience but differ in their primary focus areas within the production pipeline.

What are some common challenges Pipeline Developers face in animation studios, and how can they overcome them?

Pipeline Developers in animation studios often encounter challenges such as integrating new tools with legacy systems, ensuring smooth data flow between departments, and supporting diverse artist workflows. To overcome these, it’s important to maintain clear documentation, collaborate closely with artists and technical directors, and stay adaptable to rapidly evolving production needs. Regular communication with end users and iterative testing can help ensure the pipeline remains efficient and user-friendly.

What is the pipeline of animation production?

The animation production pipeline involves several key stages: pre-production, which includes storyboarding, concept art, and scripting; production, where animators create the actual animation using tools like Maya or Blender; and post-production, which involves editing, compositing, and rendering. As a pipeline developer in animation, understanding these stages and the software tools used is essential for creating efficient workflows.

What is the highest paying job in animation?

In animation, senior roles such as Lead Animator, Animation Director, or VFX Supervisor tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures annually. These positions require extensive experience, advanced skills in software like Maya or Houdini, and strong leadership abilities.

How to become a pipeline developer?

To become a pipeline developer in animation, you typically need a strong foundation in computer science, programming skills in languages like Python or C++, and experience with pipeline tools such as Autodesk Maya, Houdini, or Nuke. Gaining knowledge of scripting, automation, and version control systems, along with a portfolio of relevant projects, can improve job prospects. Many roles also require a degree in computer science, animation, or a related field.
What are popular job titles related to Pipeline Developer Animation jobs in Chicago, IL? For Pipeline Developer Animation jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Pipeline Developer Animation jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Pipeline Developer Animation jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Pipeline Developer Animation jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Pipeline Developer Animation job openings:
Pipeline Developer Animation jobs near you
Technical Artist

Technical Artist

NxT Level

Chicago, IL • On-site, Remote

$130K - $156K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Remote – US and Canada only

thatgamecompany designs and develops artistically crafted, broadly accessible video games that push the boundaries of interactive entertainment. We respect our players and want to contribute meaningful, enriching experiences that touch and inspire them.

We seek talent that values integrity and personal growth within an environment of intense collaboration and experimentation.

Our mission - create timeless entertainment that makes positive change to the human psyche worldwide. If you’ve been wanting to have a positive impact on people's lives and the creative challenges associated with doing something different and unique, then come help us shine brighter together.

Major Responsibilities

  • Work with engineering and art teams to develop custom shaders from scratch
  • Work across several art disciplines including shading, environment art, character art, animation and general art to support as the need arises.
  • Profile and optimize shaders and VFX for optimal performance across a wide range of target platforms.
  • Lead efforts in building foundational systems for art to establish scenes, animation, rigging, FX, and material tests.
  • Coordinate with art, technical, and studio leads to help build and maintain a high-performance art pipeline from creation to final package delivery.
  • Contribute to the unique product artistic vision holding high standards for aesthetics and technical art implementation.
  • Optimizing art content for performance.

Additional Responsibilities

  • Profile and optimize shaders and VFX for optimal performance across a wide range of target platforms.
  • Working in our proprietary engine, help to establish our material and vfx pipelines.
  • Document workflows and best practices for materials and vfx

Must-Haves

  • A good understanding of shaders (HLSL and/or GLSL) and ideally able to handle supporting c++ code for those prototypes or tools if required
  • Solid experience working with shader, materials and vfx in an industry standard or proprietary game engine
  • Experience implementing visual effects in an industry standard or proprietary Game Engine from concept to completion
  • Solid experience profiling and optimizing shaders and vfx on multiple platforms
  • 3-5 or more years experience as a Technical Artist
  • Must have 3 or more years experience with Maya and modern 3D art pipelines
  • Proven experience building tools for modern art pipeline with a solid understanding of game engine scripting (ex. Unity, Unreal, Proprietary Engine)
  • Portfolio demonstrating the technical artistic ability, with a focus on custom shaders and vfx
  • Self-motivated and diligent, with established habits for tracking one’s own tasks and seeking out answers when needed

Nice to Haves

  • Writing c++ code would be a plus
  • Knowing Mel, Python, Lua, C++, is a plus
  • Understanding of animation pipelines, including character and environment systems
  • Strong communication skills and a positive and professional attitude
  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent years of experience in Computer Science, 3D graphics, or related field
  • Experience working with offsite art and programming teams

Perks:

  • Paid Time Off, Holidays and Two Weeks Winter Break
  • Employees and their dependents get medical, dental, and vision coverage, regardless of their level, tenure, or position within the company. Moreover, these benefits start on the first day of the job—there’s no waiting period before they kick in.
  • Pet Insurance for those who need it too.
  • Compassionate leave for employees who needs to take care of their family members
  • Pre-tax wellness stipend
  • Pre-tax work from home stipend
  • Access our savings plan (401K program) with company match
  • Mental health resources including Headspace membership and Employee Assistance Program (CCA)
  • Discount portal for everyday goods and services
  • Employee inclusive and diversity initiatives such as Grow Together
  • Support for personal professional development

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