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Senior 3D Game Animator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Roblox

3D Animator (Short Term)

San Mateo, CA

We're seeking a talented Senior 3D Animator to join our team at Roblox for a 6-month engagement ... Strong experience in character animation , with a focus on creating believable, game-ready ...

ZAGG, Inc.

Senior 3D Animator

Midvale, UT · On-site

$100K - $114K/yr

Senior 3D Animator Location: Midvale, UT, 84047 Employment Type: Full-Time | On-site Department: Creative/Marketing About Us At ZAGG Brands, we're at the forefront of innovation, empowering mobile ...

ZAGG Inc

Senior 3D Animator

Midvale, UT

$100K - $114K/yr

Senior 3D Animator Location: Midvale, UT, 84047 Employment Type: Full-Time | On-site Department: Creative/Marketing About Us At ZAGG Brands, we're at the forefront of innovation, empowering mobile ...

Roblox

3D Animator (Short Term)

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$9.1K - $11K/mo

We're seeking a talented Senior 3D Animator to join our team at Roblox for a 6-month engagement ... Strong experience in character animation , with a focus on creating believable, game-ready ...

2K

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA · On-site

$124K - $142K/yr

Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to integrate animations into the game. * Problem-solve ... Exemplary skills in keyframe, stylized 3D animation, using Maya and/or Motion Builder. * Experience ...

Cloud Chamber

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA · On-site

$124K - $142K/yr

Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to integrate animations into the game. * Problem-solve ... Exemplary skills in keyframe, stylized 3D animation, using Maya and/or Motion Builder. * Experience ...

Cloud Chamber

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA

$124K - $142K/yr

Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to integrate animations into the game. * Problem-solve ... Exemplary skills in keyframe, stylized 3D animation, using Maya and/or Motion Builder. * Experience ...

2K

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA

$124K - $142K/yr

Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to integrate animations into the game. * Problem-solve ... Exemplary skills in keyframe, stylized 3D animation, using Maya and/or Motion Builder. * Experience ...

Valicy

3D Animator

Greenville, NC

We make games. We also make the machines they run on. What we're building matters. How we treat ... The 3D Animator will work across all aspects of a game's life cycle, owning the responsibility of ...

2K

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA · On-site

$124K - $142K/yr

Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to integrate animations into the game. * Problem-solve ... Exemplary skills in keyframe, stylized 3D animation, using Maya and/or Motion Builder. * Experience ...

Ember Lab

Senior Gameplay Animator

Orange, CA · On-site

$88K - $120K/yr

Having released our debut game, Kena: Bridge of Spirits, in 2021 this journey is just beginning. We ... As a Senior Gameplay Animator, you will conceptualize, design, develop and execute 3D animations.

Ember Lab

Senior Gameplay Animator

Orange, CA

$88K - $120K/yr

Having released our debut game, Kena: Bridge of Spirits, in 2021 this journey is just beginning. We ... As a Senior Gameplay Animator, you will conceptualize, design, develop and execute 3D animations.

Ember Lab

Senior Gameplay Animator

Orange, CA · On-site

Having released our debut game, Kena: Bridge of Spirits, in 2021 this journey is just beginning ... As a Senior Gameplay Animator, you will conceptualize, design, develop and execute 3D animations.

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$122K

How much do senior 3d game animator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior 3d game animator in the United States is $112,707.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $106,000.00 and $121,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Senior 3D Game Animator do?

A Senior 3D Game Animator is responsible for creating complex and realistic animations for characters, creatures, and objects within video games. They work closely with designers, modelers, and programmers to ensure animations are visually appealing and fit seamlessly into the gameplay. In addition to animating, they often mentor junior animators, develop animation pipelines, and help set the artistic direction for movement and action in the game.

What is the difference between Senior 3D Game Animator vs 3D Character Artist?

AspectSenior 3D Game Animator3D Character Artist
Primary FocusCreating and refining character animations for gamesModeling and designing 3D character assets
Skills RequiredAnimation, rigging, motion capture, storytellingModeling, texturing, sculpting, concept design
Work EnvironmentGame studios, animation departmentsGame studios, character design teams
Common UsageUsed to bring characters to life through movementUsed to create the visual appearance of characters

While both roles involve 3D art, the Senior 3D Game Animator focuses on animating characters, whereas the 3D Character Artist specializes in designing and modeling character assets. Both roles require strong 3D skills, but their core responsibilities differ significantly in the game development process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior 3D Game Animator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior 3D Game Animator, you need advanced skills in character animation, a deep understanding of anatomy and motion, and typically a degree in animation or a related field. Expertise with industry-standard tools such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, and motion capture systems is crucial, often complemented by a strong portfolio and experience with game engines like Unreal or Unity. Creativity, collaboration, and strong communication skills help animators work effectively with artists, designers, and developers to bring characters and environments to life. These skills ensure engaging, high-quality animations that enhance gameplay and contribute to the overall success of a game project.

How does a Senior 3D Game Animator typically collaborate with other departments during game development?

As a Senior 3D Game Animator, you will frequently collaborate with game designers, character artists, technical artists, and programmers to ensure animations integrate seamlessly into the game engine and enhance the gameplay experience. This often involves attending cross-functional meetings, giving and receiving feedback, and adjusting animations based on gameplay mechanics or technical constraints. Effective communication and a strong understanding of both artistic vision and technical requirements are essential for aligning your animations with the broader creative and functional goals of the project.
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What are the most commonly searched types of 3D Game Animator jobs? The most popular types of 3D Game Animator jobs are:
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Senior 3D Game Animator jobs near you

Lead 3D Animator - Virtual Reality

Immersive Entertainment

Irvine, CA • On-site, Remote

Contractor

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Company Description
We create next-generation Virtual Reality Content that represents a new form of entertainment. We bridge the gap between video games and movies, providing a level of immersion, emotional engagement and realism never before seen.
Job Description
  • Creation of high quality game animations in collaboration with concept artists and CCO
  • Define the animation pipelines for maximum quality and efficiency
  • Leading the animation team
  • Ensure animation deliverables meet project defined timelines and budgets
  • Set quality standards for animation on the project
  • Set up a system to share knowledge and techniques across the studio
  • Mentoring animators

Qualifications
  • 5+ years of experience in game development
  • Expert knowledge in key frame creature & character animation of Max/Maya using FK and IK in a variety of styles
  • Expertise in knowledge of creature anatomy, motion, weight, acting and timing applied to 3D animation
  • Understanding of game animation practices and standards
  • Foundational knowledge of composition, editing and cinematic storytelling
  • Exceptional skill in animating realistic creatures
  • Create unique and innovative solutions for solving character animation issues
  • Experience with both motion capture in key frame techniques
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Attention to detail
  • English language
  • Strong team player and leader by example

Additional Information
Pluses
  • Shipped AAA PC or console titles as a Senior 3D Animator
  • Work experience with Unreal Engine 4
  • Understanding the difference between developing for VR compared to traditional game development.
  • A passion for developing and playing virtual reality experiences

Apply