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Pipeline Developer Animation Jobs in San Rafael, CA

Cloud Chamber

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA · On-site

$124K - $142K/yr

Work closely with programmers to establish and refine the animation pipeline. * Develop high-quality gameplay animations that meet project standards and ensure animations align with the animation ...

Cloud Chamber

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA

$124K - $142K/yr

Work closely with programmers to establish and refine the animation pipeline. * Develop high-quality gameplay animations that meet project standards and ensure animations align with the animation ...

2K

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA

$124K - $142K/yr

Work closely with programmers to establish and refine the animation pipeline. * Develop high-quality gameplay animations that meet project standards and ensure animations align with the animation ...

2K

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA · On-site

$124K - $142K/yr

Work closely with programmers to establish and refine the animation pipeline. * Develop high-quality gameplay animations that meet project standards and ensure animations align with the animation ...

World Labs

Pipeline Engineer (Graphics/3D)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$164K - $203K/yr

... engineering to product design - creating a tight feedback loop between our cutting-edge research ... Experience with production pipelines at VFX, animation, or gaming studios. * A production support ...

World Labs

Pipeline Engineer (Graphics/3D)

San Francisco, CA · Remote

$164K - $203K/yr

... engineering to product design - creating a tight feedback loop between our cutting-edge research ... Experience with production pipelines at VFX, animation, or gaming studios. * A production support ...

Krea.ai, Inc

Fullstack Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

... UI animations. * Optimize frontend performance: minimize render latency, profile UI with virtual ... Drive real-time image & video generation pipelines via low-latency APIs. * Improve observability ...

2K

Senior Rendering Engineer

Novato, CA · On-site

$108K - $161K/yr

Create new tools and efficient pipelines for content production. * Debug visual and performance ... We will work closely and constructively across design, art, engineering, animation, and audio teams ...

2K

Senior Rendering Engineer

Novato, CA · On-site

$108K - $161K/yr

Create new tools and efficient pipelines for content production. * Debug visual and performance ... We will work closely and constructively across design, art, engineering, animation, and audio teams ...

Cloud Chamber

Senior Rendering Engineer

Novato, CA

$108K - $161K/yr

Create new tools and efficient pipelines for content production. * Debug visual and performance ... We will work closely and constructively across design, art, engineering, animation, and audio teams ...

Cloud Chamber

Senior Rendering Engineer

Novato, CA · On-site

$108K - $161K/yr

Create new tools and efficient pipelines for content production. * Debug visual and performance ... We will work closely and constructively across design, art, engineering, animation, and audio teams ...

Prisms VR

3D Artist (Remote)

San Francisco, CA · Remote

$110K - $140K/yr

Prisms VR is a San Francisco-based team of educators, game developers, and engineers transforming ... Retargeting character animation using mocap data; * Scene Layout and Lighting in Unity; * Creating ...

Figma

Software Engineer, Graphics & Media

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$164K - $203K/yr

Within Creation Engine's Rendering & Animation org, the Pixel Engine team focuses on platform level ... Supporting new client-side Media features (e.g. image processing pipelines) * Improving the ...

Adobe

Staff AI VFX Engineer

San Francisco, CA

Generative AI has limited practical application in VFX pipelines with real world production ... Itshipsa coordinated stack of image, video, animation, and 3D generation models that need to work ...

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Pipeline Developer Animation information

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How much do pipeline developer animation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for pipeline developer animation in San Rafael, CA is $56.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59.47 and $65.67 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 San Rafael, CA? For Pipeline Developer Animation jobs in San Rafael, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Pipeline Developer Animation jobs in San Rafael, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Pipeline Developer Animation jobs in San Rafael, CA are:
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Pipeline Developer Animation jobs near you

Senior Gameplay Animator

Cloud Chamber

Novato, CA • On-site

$124K - $142K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

As a Senior Gameplay Animator at Cloud Chamber, you will be part of a remarkably talented team of animators who are tasked with breathing life into the world of BioShock. You will be responsible for the creation of exemplary gameplay animations as well as implementation and optimization of your work in the Unreal Engine. You will work in close collaboration with a distributed group of developers, across disciplines, to set the standards that educate and inspire our team; ultimately bringing the world of BioShock to life.
What You'll Do:
  • Create gameplay, AI, and scripted animation that matches the visual style of the game, using both keyframe and augmented mocap techniques.
  • Work closely with programmers and designers to support a multitude of features.
  • Collaborate with Senior Animators on complicated sets of animation data to fulfill various gameplay and AI systems.
  • Participate in reviews with the gameplay team, give and receive constructive feedback.
  • Communicate and collaborate with members of other disciplines as needed.
  • Estimate the time required to carry out your own tasks and to meet deadlines.
  • Provide knowledge and solutions for everyday animation challenges.
  • Work closely with programmers to establish and refine the animation pipeline.
  • Develop high-quality gameplay animations that meet project standards and ensure animations align with the animation director's vision for the project.
  • Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to integrate animations into the game.
  • Problem-solve, debug, and optimize animations to ensure smooth gameplay experiences.
  • Utilize exceptional knowledge to create and maintain gameplay and AI systems related to gameplay animation.
  • Maintain a strong understanding of character performance, form, gestures, and silhouettes for both player characters and AI entities.
  • Apply expertise in anatomy and caricature to enhance the visual appeal and believability of character animations.
  • Excel in animating various elements, including the human bipedal figure, organic forms, quadrupedal creatures, and mechanical objects.
  • Utilize motion capture data and hand-keyed facial animation techniques for realism.
  • Engage in research, gather reference materials, and document findings to share with the team, aiding in animation development.
  • Mentor, coach, and train more junior animators.

What We'll Do Together:
At Cloud Chamber, we are champions of high standards, pushing for progress and embracing change. We will work closely and constructively across design, art, engineering, animation, and audio teams to realize our creative ambitions. Together, we will stay current on technological advancements and identify solutions to overcome developmental obstacles to deliver a unique, world-class, immersive AAA experience.
Skills & Experience:
  • Previous experience as a Senior Animator on a AAA title.
  • Exemplary skills in keyframe, stylized 3D animation, using Maya and/or Motion Builder.
  • Experience working in Unreal Engine for animation implementation and debugging.
  • Strong understanding of character performance, form, gesture, and silhouette in regard to player character and AI.
  • Excellent understanding of anatomy and caricature.
  • Exceptional skills in animating the human bipedal figure, organic forms, quadrupedal, and mechanical objects.
  • Exceptional knowledge of how to create and maintain gameplay and AI systems in game engines as they pertain to video game animation.
  • Experience structuring & maintaining animation processes such as rigging or prototyping.
  • Experience working with motion capture data and editing it.
  • Excellent problem solving and debugging skills.
  • Experience with hand key facial animation and tools such as Jali.
  • A love for research, reference, and documenting your findings to share with the team.

Who You Are:
  • A reliable, positive force multiplier, actively seeking opportunities to integrate work across disciplines and contribute to a healthy, supportive team environment.
  • A solid communicator with excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly, package information for diverse audiences, and deliver difficult feedback with empathy and professionalism.
  • Experienced in working in cross-disciplinary teams with strong communication skills.
  • Persistent and self-motivated with a proactive mindset.
  • Able to maintain effectiveness and quality under pressure, ambiguity, and fast-changing priorities.
  • An active listener able to build and maintain trust-based relationships across all levels of the organization, understand differing perspectives, and navigate organizational complexity with tact and emotional intelligence.
  • Highly open to feedback and direction, possessing a desire to learn new skills, and capable of producing quick, quality revisions based on new insights or constraints.
  • A strong ownership of tasks, striving to drive work forward autonomously while maintaining a critical eye for detail and organization, ensuring high standards of quality.
  • Dedicated to upholding Cloud Chamber's core values, contributing to a positive and respectful company culture while striving for excellence in all endeavors.

Who We Are:
At Cloud Chamber we strive to make BioShock games that move people: evocative, immersive, and meaningful experiences that stay with you long after you've rolled credits. Great games are born from great collaborations, supported by a culture that brings out the best in our teams. We work openly, learn through play, take ownership, push ourselves to be better, and deliver for our players.
For candidates located in Quebec:This position requires professional proficiency in both French and English. Proficiency in English is required to collaborate with our U.S. teams and international partners, as well as to handle specialized technical documentation (reading, writing, and communication).
#LI-Hybrid
The pay range for this position in California at the start of employment is expected to be between $100,200 and $148,320 per Year. However, base pay offered is based on market location, and may vary further depending on individualized factors for job candidates, such as job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and other objective business considerations. Subject to those same considerations, the total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, including a bonus and/or equity awards and eligibility to participate in our 401(K) plan and Employee Stock Purchase Program. Regular, full-time employees are also eligible for a range of benefits at the Company, including: medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance coverage; 14 paid holidays per calendar year; paid vacation time per calendar year (ranging from 15 to 25 days) or eligibility to participate in the Company's discretionary time off program; up to 10 paid sick days per calendar year; paid parental and compassionate leave; wellbeing programs for mental health and other wellness support; family planning support through Maven; commuter benefits; and reimbursements for fitness-related expenses.
As an equal opportunity employer, we are committed to ensuring that qualified individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, perform their essential job functions, and receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us if you need reasonable accommodation.
Please note that 2K Games and its studios never use instant messaging apps or personal email accounts to contact prospective employees or conduct interviews. When emailing prospective employees, we only use 2K.com accounts

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