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Pixar Animator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Line Cook (On-Call)

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$20.34 - $25.12/hr

If you are talented, passionate about food, friendly and curious, come and join us at Pixar Animation Studios. Our Culinary Team seeks talented and reliable cooks, with vast experience in all kitchen ...

Line Cook (On-Call)

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$20.34 - $25.12/hr

If you are talented, passionate about food, friendly and curious, come and join us at Pixar Animation Studios. Our Culinary Team seeks talented and reliable cooks, with vast experience in all kitchen ...

Research Scientist

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$162K - $210K/yr

Conduct world-class research in computer graphics and AI to develop innovative solutions for Pixar and Disney film productions. This role bridges the gap between academic research and practical ...

Pixar Animation Studios; Disneynature; Marvel Studios; and Touchstone Pictures, the banner under which live-action films from DreamWorks Studios are distributed. The Disney Music Group encompasses ...

Pixar Animation Studios; Disneynature; Marvel Studios; and Touchstone Pictures, the banner under which live-action films from DreamWorks Studios are distributed. The Disney Music Group encompasses ...

Front-End Developer (Mid-Level)

New York, NY · On-site +1

$113K - $132K/yr

... animation. We're building a magical storytelling engine powered by generative AI to create deeply personalized, emotionally resonant animated content for kids - think Pixar meets GPT. From ...

Pixar Animator information

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$10

$39

$70

How much do pixar animator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for pixar 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 are Pixar Animators?

Pixar Animators are artists who bring characters and scenes to life in Pixar's animated films using computer-generated imagery (CGI). They work closely with directors, story artists, and technical teams to create compelling movement, expressions, and performances that convey emotion and advance the story. Pixar Animators use specialized software and a deep understanding of motion, acting, and storytelling to create believable and engaging animation. Their work is a crucial part of producing the high-quality, memorable films that Pixar is known for.

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

To thrive as a Pixar Animator, you need strong artistic ability, a solid understanding of animation principles, and typically a degree in animation, fine arts, or a related field. Proficiency with 3D animation software such as Autodesk Maya and familiarity with Pixar's proprietary tools are essential. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective collaboration skills help animators bring characters to life and work seamlessly within large creative teams. These skills are crucial for producing compelling, high-quality animations that meet Pixar's renowned storytelling standards.

How much do Pixar animators get paid?

Pixar animators typically earn between $70,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, role, and location. Entry-level animators may start at lower salaries, while senior artists with specialized skills or leadership roles can earn higher compensation. Proficiency in industry-standard tools like Maya or RenderMan is often required for higher-paying positions.

How do you become a Pixar animator?

To become a Pixar animator, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in animation, fine arts, or a related field, along with strong skills in 3D modeling and animation software such as Maya or RenderMan. Building a compelling portfolio and gaining experience through internships or work on animated projects are also important steps in the hiring process.

How much do Pixar animation engineers make?

Pixar animation engineers typically earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience and role. Salaries for technical artists and software engineers at Pixar can vary based on skill level, with additional benefits such as health insurance and creative work environments.

What are some common challenges Pixar Animators face when working on feature films?

Pixar Animators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistency in character movement and emotion across long scenes, adapting to frequent story or design changes, and meeting tight production deadlines. Collaboration is essential, as animators regularly receive feedback from directors and other departments, requiring flexibility and strong communication skills. Additionally, staying up-to-date with evolving animation technology and tools is crucial to deliver the high-quality storytelling Pixar is known for.

Is it hard to get a job at Pixar?

Getting a job as a Pixar animator is highly competitive due to the studio's reputation and high standards. Candidates typically need a strong portfolio, relevant skills in animation software like RenderMan or Maya, and often several years of experience in the industry. The hiring process involves multiple interviews and assessments to evaluate technical ability and creativity.
More about Pixar Animator jobs
What states have the most Pixar Animator jobs? States with the most job openings for Pixar Animator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Pixar Animator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 76% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. 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.
Temp Positions

$18 - $21.75/hr

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Job description

Temporary Positions at Pixar Animation Studios.