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Programmer Animator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hybrid in Reno, NV What You Will Do As Animator, you will create dynamic 2D animations for ... Collaborate with illustrators, developers, and the team to solve creative or technical challenges.

Animator II

Reno, NV · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

As Animator, you will create dynamic 2D animations for characters, environments, and special ... Collaborate with illustrators, developers, and the team to solve creative or technical challenges.

Senior Gameplay Animator

Orange, CA · On-site

$88K - $120K/yr

Collaborate with the design and engineering teams to ensure animations align with gameplay mechanics and technical constraints. * Iterate and refine animations based on feedback from team members and ...

Work closely with the software engineer to prepare final animations in formats necessary for integration into the game * Understand and resolve technical issues relating to graphics (e.g., rendering ...

Collaborate with the design and engineering teams to ensure animations align with gameplay mechanics and technical constraints. * Iterate and refine animations based on feedback from team members and ...

Work closely with the software engineer to prepare final animations in formats necessary for integration into the game * Understand and resolve technical issues relating to graphics (e.g., rendering ...

Iterate quickly based on feedback from animation leads, designers, and engineers * Export animations properly for Roblox Studio integration (using compatible formats and best practices) * Use ...

Senior Gaming Animator

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$129K - $148K/yr

Join forces with designers and engineers to create characters that are expressive and that still work with player control and AI * Design hand-keyed animation with a highly intuitive and developed ...

Users can manipulate interactive animations on a touchscreen, providing superior training differentiator for products that require assembly, installation, maintenance, programming, or repair. BILT ...

Senior Gaming Animator

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$129K - $148K/yr

Join forces with designers and engineers to create characters that are expressive and that still work with player control and AI * Design hand-keyed animation with a highly intuitive and developed ...

Users can manipulate interactive animations on a touchscreen, providing superior training differentiator for products that require assembly, installation, maintenance, programming, or repair. BILT ...

Collaborate with Designers and Programmers to implement animations in engine using expert skills in Maya and proprietary engine tools. * Independently troubleshoot and resolve issues that arise.

Showing results 41-60

Programmer Animator information

See salary details

$96.5K

$135.2K

$143.5K

How much do programmer animator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for programmer animator in the United States is $135,232.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,000.00 and $143,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a programmer animator?

Programmer animators are professionals who combine programming skills with animation expertise to create, implement, and optimize animation systems in video games, films, or interactive applications. They write code that brings characters, objects, and environments to life, ensuring movements are realistic and responsive. In addition to collaborating with artists and designers, programmer animators work on technical tasks such as rigging, motion capture integration, and developing custom animation tools. Their role bridges the gap between artistic vision and technical execution, making them vital in the production pipeline.

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

To thrive as a Programmer Animator, you need a solid background in computer science, animation principles, and proficiency in programming languages such as C++ or Python, often supported by a relevant degree. Experience with animation software (e.g., Maya, Blender) and game engines (e.g., Unity, Unreal Engine) is typically required, along with knowledge of scripting and animation systems. Strong problem-solving, creativity, and effective communication skills help bridge the gap between technical and artistic teams. These skills are crucial for creating smooth, interactive animations that enhance user experience in games or simulations.

How do programmer animators typically collaborate with artists and game designers during a project?

Programmer Animators work closely with both artists and game designers to ensure that character and environment animations are both visually appealing and technically feasible. They often act as a bridge, translating artistic vision into code that runs efficiently within the game engine. Regular meetings, feedback sessions, and prototype reviews are common, allowing Programmer Animators to adjust animations based on gameplay needs or performance constraints. This collaborative environment helps create seamless animations that enhance player experience while meeting project deadlines.

What is the difference between Programmer Animator vs Graphic Designer?

AspectProgrammer AnimatorGraphic Designer
Required CredentialsAnimation or computer science degree, coding skillsDesign or fine arts degree, strong visual skills
Work EnvironmentAnimation studios, game development, multimedia companiesAdvertising agencies, print and digital media firms
Industry UsageVideo games, films, interactive mediaMarketing, branding, print and digital media

Programmer Animators focus on creating animated content through coding and technical skills, often working in multimedia and gaming industries. Graphic Designers primarily develop visual concepts for branding and marketing, emphasizing artistic skills. While both roles involve visual creativity, Programmer Animators combine programming with animation, whereas Graphic Designers focus on static visual design.

What states have the most Programmer Animator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Programmer Animator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Programmer Animator jobs?

For Programmer Animator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Animator II

Reno, NV • Hybrid

IGT
Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


IGT rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

251st of 499 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Hiring location: Reno, NV

Employment type: Full-time position

Work setup: Hybrid in Reno, NV

What You Will Do

As Animator, you will create dynamic 2D animations for characters, environments, and special effects, bringing games to life with engaging visual storytelling. You will collaborate closely with the art and design teams to ensure animations match the game's style and vision.

  • Create high-quality 2D animations using Spine and Adobe Creative Cloud, ensuring they match the game's style and vision. 
  • Organize and optimize source files for efficiency, balancing image quality, file size, and resource use. 
  • Collaborate with illustrators, developers, and the team to solve creative or technical challenges. 
  • Keep work updated in the repository and track progress in the task management system. 
  • Incorporate feedback, provide realistic time estimates, and attend team meetings to stay aligned with project goals. 
What We're Looking For
  • 2 years of experience as a 2D animator in Spine, with a strong creative passion for games. 
  • Bachelor Degree in relevant field (e.g., Computer Graphics, Animation) and strong knowledge of Adobe Suite. 
  • Team player with clear communication skills, able to integrate feedback and follow guidelines. 
  •  

Benefits and Culture

  • Permanent employment contract and a competitive salary. 
  • Private health insurance for you and your family. 
  • Flexible working hours, including a hybrid work model, along with various initiatives that support wellbeing and work-life balance. 
  • Opportunity to learn and continuously improve your skills through collaboration with e-learning platforms. 
  • Clear career development path with well-defined growth opportunities. 
  • A vibrant and stimulating work environment within Class-A office space. 

 

Important Application Note

Please include a link to your portfolio showcasing your relevant work. As the portfolio is an essential part of the evaluation process, we will not be able to proceed with the application without it.

Ready to level up your career? Your first step starts with applying; let's see where it leads. 

Let's build games played by millions together! 

Keys to Success

 Building collaborative relationships
Decision making
Drive results
Foster innovation
Personal energy
Self-leadership

#LI-CK1

IGT is committed to sustaining a workforce that reflects the diversity of the global customers and communities we serve and to fostering an inclusive environment where all employees feel valued, respected, and engaged. IGT is an equal opportunity employer and provides equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. We thank all applicants for their for applying; however, only those selected to interview will be contacted. 


Depending on the role, employees may be eligible for bonus or commission opportunities. IGT also offers a comprehensive benefits package, which may include a 401(k) savings plan with company contributions, medical, dental, and vision insurance, life and disability coverage, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, and other wellness programs, subject to eligibility requirements. 

IGT is the global leader in gaming. For more information, please visit www.igt.com.


What IGT employees say

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About IGT

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

IGTis a global leader in gaming. We deliver entertaining and responsible gaming experiences for players across all channels and regulated segments, from Lotteries and Gaming Machines to Sports Betting and Digital. Leveraging a wealth of compelling content, substantial investment in innovation, player insights, operational expertise, and leading-edge technology, our solutions deliver unrivaled gaming experiences that engage players and drive growth. We have a well-established local presence and relationships with governments and regulators in more than 100 countries around the world, and create value by adhering to the highest standards of service, integrity, and responsibility.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

London, Greater London, GB

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