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Trainee 3D Animation Maya Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Flying Bark Productions

3D Animation Lead

Denver, NC · On-site +1

The 3D Animation Lead role involves managing and guiding a team of animators on a show, acting as ... Thorough knowledge of Maya * An understanding of physical motion, weight, balance, texture and form

M&S Consulting

3D Animator

Pasadena, CA · On-site +1

Experience working across the full 3D pipeline: modeling, texturing/shading, lighting, rigging, animation, rendering, and compositing * Proficiency with tools such as Unreal Engine, Blender, Maya ...

Flying Bark Productions

3D Animation Lead

Denver, NC · On-site

The 3D Animation Lead role involves managing and guiding a team of animators on a show, acting as ... Thorough knowledge of Maya * An understanding of physical motion, weight, balance, texture and form

M&S Consulting

3D Animator

Pasadena, CA · Remote

Experience working across the full 3D pipeline: modeling, texturing/shading, lighting, rigging, animation, rendering, and compositing * Proficiency with tools such as Unreal Engine, Blender, Maya ...

Montgomery College

MD · On-site

Specialized experience with 3D character animation. * Willingness to incorporate- and a familiarity ... Proficiency in Adobe Software and Autodesk Maya Software. * Successful candidates will have a ...

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Trainee 3D Animation Maya information

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$63.9K

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How much do trainee 3d animation maya jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee 3d animation maya in the United States is $63,866.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,500.00 and $62,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Trainee 3D Animation Maya do?

A Trainee 3D Animation Maya is an entry-level professional who learns and assists in creating 3D animations using Autodesk Maya, a leading animation software. They work under the guidance of senior animators to model, rig, animate, and render digital characters, objects, and environments for film, TV, games, or commercials. Trainees gain hands-on experience with animation workflows, industry standards, and creative techniques while building their technical skills. Their tasks often include following briefs, making revisions, and collaborating with other team members to support larger animation projects.

What is the difference between Trainee 3D Animation Maya vs Junior 3D Modeler?

AspectTrainee 3D Animation MayaJunior 3D Modeler
Required SkillsBasic knowledge of Maya, animation principlesModeling skills, understanding of 3D software
Work EnvironmentTraining programs, entry-level projectsProduction teams, modeling tasks
CertificationsOften no formal certification required, training focusPortfolio, some certifications beneficial
Industry UsageLearning phase in animation studios, game developmentGame studios, animation companies, VFX houses

While both roles involve 3D work, a Trainee 3D Animation Maya focuses on learning animation techniques using Maya, whereas a Junior 3D Modeler specializes in creating 3D models. The trainee role emphasizes skill development, while the junior modeler applies modeling skills in production environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Trainee 3D Animation Maya, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trainee 3D Animation Maya, you need a solid understanding of animation principles, art fundamentals, and basic 3D modeling, often supported by coursework or a degree in animation or a related field. Familiarity with Autodesk Maya is essential, as well as exposure to industry-standard tools like Adobe Creative Suite and rendering engines. Creative problem-solving, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively in a team are important soft skills. These skills and qualities ensure the production of high-quality animations, smooth workflow integration, and professional growth in a competitive industry.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a Trainee 3D Animation Maya expect during the early stages of their career?

As a Trainee 3D Animation Maya, you will typically work on a variety of foundational tasks such as creating basic models, texturing, rigging, and animating simple characters or objects under the supervision of senior animators. You may be assigned to assist with asset preparation, scene setup, or polishing existing animations. Collaboration is key, as you’ll often work closely with modelers, texture artists, and the animation lead to ensure your work aligns with the project’s vision. This role is designed to help you build technical proficiency in Maya while gaining exposure to professional production pipelines and workflows.
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Trainee 3D Animation Maya jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trainee 3D Animation Maya job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,866 per year, or $30.7 per hour.

3D Animation Lead

Flying Bark Productions

Denver, NC • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Flying Bark Productions is a dynamic and innovative animation studio dedicated to pushing the boundaries of character animation and storytelling. We are working on exciting projects such as Avatar: The Last Airbender feature film, Netflix's Ghostbusters animated series and Stranger Things animated series as well as upcoming feature film, Zac Power.


The 3D Animation Lead role involves managing and guiding a team of animators on a show, acting as the main contact between production and supervisors, and ensuring smooth communication and workflow. This role requires strong leadership skills, technical knowledge of animation tools (especially Maya), and the ability to solve creative and technical challenges while meeting deadlines. The lead also coaches junior artists, collaborates with other departments, and supports production needs to maintain high-quality animation output.


About the role:

  • Lead a team of animators on a show
  • Be the key contact for production and supervisor/s. Maintain clear communication, deal with creative challenges, provide solutions and adapt to changes in production & scheduling
  • Set and manage team assignments in collaboration with the animation supervisor
  • Have a good understanding of the animation tasks the team will be working on and the potential technical and creative challenges involved
  • Be prepared to deputise for the animation supervisor if necessary
  • Be aware of workflow templates, methodology and documentation; provide to the team where necessary
  • Work with technology teams to ensure that department tools are available for the team and properly set up for the show
  • Inform supervisors and Head of Department (HOD) of any advances made on a project for integration into other shows
  • May be required to work with HOD and supervisors on bids when requested
  • Effectively manage team to avoid potential conflict or disagreement
  • Maintain positive relationships with all other departments and address any issues promptly
  • Attend dailies and present the work of your team; guide artists on how to present their work
  • Coach, share knowledge and assume some responsibility for the progression of more junior members of the team
  • Provide regular feedback to the team to ensure that work is always delivered on time to the highest possible standard
  • Work with the technical animators to ensure that show wikis are kept up to date


About you:

  • Previous experience mentoring or leading a team
  • Thorough knowledge of Maya
  • An understanding of physical motion, weight, balance, texture and form
  • An understanding of rigs and typical rigging set-ups, animation pipelines and transferring data between tools
  • The proven ability to work under pressure
  • Being open to direction and able to embrace change
  • Attention to detail
  • Reliable, with good time keeping and the ability to meet deadlines
  • Excellent organisation, communication and interpersonal skills
  • A demonstrable commitment to creative collaboration within a team and with other departments
  • Adaptability and the willingness to learn new processes and technical skills
  • Working knowledge of modelling, rigging and Mel/Python scripting
  • Knowledge of human and animal anatomy as well as life drawing skills


What do we do?

Flying Bark Productions is a renowned independent producer of family-focused animation entertainment. For over 50 years, our 2D and 3D production facility hascreated award-winning feature films and TV series.


Why work with us?

  • We work on some pretty cool projects - check out our website: https://www.flyingbark.com.au/
  • We love dogs and you will often see some of our regular fluffy companions in the studio.
  • We have a hybrid approach to work. For this particular position, full remote could be an option.
  • Career development is important to us so we offer training and support opportunities whenever possible.
  • Our employees say our culture is the best they've ever experienced - everyone is welcome and celebrated!


Flying Bark Productions is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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