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Technical Animator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Animator

Reno, NV · On-site +1

$114K - $141K/yr

... strong technical and commercial capabilities and nurtured by a culture of collaboration ... Create high-impact animations and visual effects for real-time and pre-rendered gameplay * Craft ...

... Animator to bring ideas, products, and stories to life through compelling motion design and ... The ideal candidate blends strong visual storytelling with technical execution, works efficiently ...

The 3D Animator will create high-fidelity, cinematic animations that communicate complex scientific and technical concepts through compelling visual storytelling. This role is ideal for a senior ...

Partnering with cross-discipline leads (design, engineering, art, production) to align animation with gameplay systems, technical realities, and the overall player experience. * Owning combat feel ...

The position requires strong technical expertise, creativity, and the ability to produce complex ... Create animations and models that represent both concrete subject matter and abstract concepts.

The position requires strong technical expertise, creativity, and the ability to produce complex ... Create animations and models that represent both concrete subject matter and abstract concepts.

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 ...

Partnering with cross-discipline leads (design, engineering, art, production) to align animation with gameplay systems, technical realities, and the overall player experience. * Owning combat feel ...

Apply animation and design principles to continuously build and strengthen technical design skills Knowledge and expertise that matter most for this role: Required: * Bachelor's degree or ...

Apply animation and design principles to continuously build and strengthen technical design skills Knowledge and expertise that matter most for this role: Required: * Bachelor's degree or ...

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 ...

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 ...

Apply animation and design principles to continuously build and strengthen technical design skills Knowledge and expertise that matter most for this role: Required: * Bachelor's degree or ...

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Technical Animator information

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How much do technical animator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for technical 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.

Are animators in demand right now?

Technical animators are currently in demand due to the growth of the gaming, film, and virtual reality industries, which require skilled professionals proficient in animation software and programming. Strong technical skills, knowledge of tools like Maya, Blender, or Unreal Engine, and a portfolio can improve job prospects in this field.

What does a technical animator do?

A technical animator develops and implements the tools, scripts, and processes that enable smooth animation workflows in video games or films. They collaborate with artists and programmers to troubleshoot rigging, optimize performance, and ensure animations function correctly across different platforms, often using software like Maya, Blender, or proprietary engines. Strong programming skills and understanding of character rigging are essential for this role.

What is a Technical Animator job?

A Technical Animator bridges the gap between art and programming in animation and game development. They create animation rigs, develop tools, and ensure characters and objects move smoothly and efficiently. Their work involves collaboration with animators, artists, and engineers to optimize animation processes and integrate assets into game engines. They also troubleshoot technical issues and improve workflows to enhance animation quality and performance.

Is animator a high paying job?

The salary of a technical animator varies depending on experience, location, and industry, but it is generally considered a mid to high-paying role within the animation and gaming industries. Skilled animators with expertise in tools like Maya or Blender and knowledge of programming can earn higher salaries, especially in larger studios or with advanced certifications.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Technical Animator?

As a Technical Animator, your daily tasks often include creating and maintaining character rigs, developing animation tools or scripts, troubleshooting technical issues, and collaborating with artists and programmers to ensure smooth animation pipelines. You might also optimize assets for performance and work closely with designers to implement animations in game engines or other platforms. The role often involves both hands-on creative work and problem-solving technical challenges. Communication and teamwork are important, as you will regularly coordinate with various departments to deliver high-quality animated content efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Technical Animator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Technical Animator, you need a solid foundation in 3D animation principles, rigging, scripting, and a relevant degree such as computer graphics or animation. Proficiency in software like Autodesk Maya, Blender, MotionBuilder, and scripting languages such as Python or MEL is typically required, along with knowledge of game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine. Strong problem-solving abilities, collaboration skills, and clear communication help Technical Animators excel in cross-disciplinary teams. These competencies enable you to bridge creative and technical workflows, ensuring high-quality, efficient animation production for games, films, or other media.

Is AI replacing 3D animators?

AI is increasingly used to assist 3D animators by automating repetitive tasks and generating initial models or animations, but it does not fully replace the need for skilled animators. Technical animators still play a crucial role in refining, rigging, and bringing creative vision to life using specialized software and artistic expertise. Human oversight remains essential for quality and creative control in the animation process.
What cities are hiring for Technical Animator jobs? Cities with the most Technical Animator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Technical Animator jobs? The most popular types of Technical Animator jobs are:
What states have the most Technical Animator jobs? States with the most job openings for Technical Animator jobs include:
Animator

Animator

IGT

Reno, NV • On-site, Remote

$114K - $141K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


IGT rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

220th of 418 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

IGT, where innovation meets entertainment on a global scale!  From the casino floor to your mobile screen, we deliver thrilling, responsible, and unforgettable gaming experiences-powered by worldclass content, strong technical and commercial capabilities and nurtured by a culture of collaboration, accountability, and ownership.

 

Whether it's spinning reels, placing bets, or enabling secure payments, we turn innovation into impact through disciplined execution and longterm value creation. With a team of over 6,000 employees across 30+ countries and products delivered in more than 100 jurisdictions worldwide, we operate at scale while staying closely connected to costumers we serve. If you're ready to bring your talent to a team shaping the future of entertainment, your next big move starts here - www.igt.com.

Overview

Bring worlds to life at IGT's Vibe Studio in Reno, Nevada! We're looking for Animators who thrive on creating bold, dynamic visuals that elevate gameplay and captivate players. You'll shape the look, feel, and energy of our games-owning animation from concept to final polish while collaborating with a passionate, cross-disciplinary team.

What You'll Do

  • Create high-impact animations and visual effects for real-time and pre-rendered gameplay
  • Craft storyboards, animatics, and gameplay sequences that maximize excitement
  • Collaborate with designers, engineers, and artists to define and execute creative vision
  • Bring complex game mechanics to life (bonuses, jackpots, feature events, etc.)
  • Elevate quality through feedback, iteration, and hands-on problem solving
  • Explore new techniques, tools, and workflows to push visual innovation
  • Playtest and refine animations to ensure they're engaging, polished, and fun


Work Location

This role is based onsite at our Reno office. While it isn't remote-eligible, we welcome applicants who already live in Reno/surrounding areas or are excited about the opportunity to relocate.

What You Bring
  • Minimum 3-5 years game development experience required
  • Strong portfolio/reel showcasing animation, timing, and visual storytelling
  • Expertise in 2D/3D tools (After Effects, Spine, Maya, Blender, etc.)
  • Experience creating animations in Unity or other real-time engines
  • Deep understanding of motion, composition, and player-driven animation design
  • Ability to collaborate, give/receive feedback, and raise the bar creatively
Keys to Success

 Building collaborative relationships
Decision making
Drive results
Foster innovation
Personal energy
Self-leadership
#LI-CK1

At IGT, we believe compensation should be as individual as you are, reflecting your skills, experience, background, and location. For this role, the starting compensation range is $114,500 to $141,400, with flexibility to adjust higher or lower based on the full scope of qualifications. We proudly comply with all applicable local pay transparency laws and collective bargaining agreements.

And compensation is just the beginning. Our Total Rewards program is designed to support your success, both professionally and personally, and may include:

  • Commission opportunities for eligible sales roles
  • Discretionary bonus potential for non-sales positions
  • Comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, accident, and disability insurance
  • A 401(k) Savings Plan with company contributions to help you plan for the future
  • Tuition reimbursement to support continued learning and growth
  • Paid time off to rest, recharge, and reset
  • Wellness programs that support your overall well-being
  • Identity theft protection for added peace of mind

What IGT employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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Get the full story on Breakroom


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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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