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Unreal Engine Gameplay Animator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

2K

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA · On-site

$124K - $142K/yr

You will be responsible for the creation of exemplary gameplay animations as well as implementation and optimization of your work in the Unreal Engine. You will work in close collaboration with a ...

Cloud Chamber

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA · On-site

$124K - $142K/yr

You will be responsible for the creation of exemplary gameplay animations as well as implementation and optimization of your work in the Unreal Engine. You will work in close collaboration with a ...

2K

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA · On-site

$124K - $142K/yr

You will be responsible for the creation of exemplary gameplay animations as well as implementation and optimization of your work in the Unreal Engine. You will work in close collaboration with a ...

Cloud Chamber

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA

$124K - $142K/yr

You will be responsible for the creation of exemplary gameplay animations as well as implementation and optimization of your work in the Unreal Engine. You will work in close collaboration with a ...

Ember Lab

Senior Gameplay Animator

Orange, CA · On-site

As a Senior Gameplay Animator, you will conceptualize, design, develop and execute 3D animations ... Unreal Engine 4 or 5 experience Location * In Office To Apply * Please include a portfolio ...

Ember Lab

Senior Gameplay Animator

Orange, CA

$88K - $120K/yr

As a Senior Gameplay Animator, you will conceptualize, design, develop and execute 3D animations ... Unreal Engine 4 or 5 experience Location * In Office To Apply * Please include a portfolio ...

CD PROJEKT RED

Senior Gameplay Animator (Locomotion)

Boston, MA · On-site +1

$115K - $131K/yr

Implement and iterate within Unreal Engine to ensure locomotion animation feels responsive, readable, and polished in real-time gameplay. * Research, explore and advocate new techniques, systems, and ...

Ember Lab

Senior Gameplay Animator

Orange, CA · On-site

$88K - $120K/yr

As a Senior Gameplay Animator, you will conceptualize, design, develop and execute 3D animations ... Unreal Engine 4 or 5 experience Location * In Office To Apply * Please include a portfolio ...

teamLFG

OR

... in Unreal Engine Strong understanding of game animation concepts like layering, blending, state machines, etc Knowledge of Maya animation pipelines Strong communication skills, and the ability to ...

De Circle

Animation Engineer - EmptyVessel

Austin, TX · On-site +1

Troubleshoot and debug game crashes, utilizing knowledge of C++ and Unreal Engine to identify and resolve issues promptly. * Utilize Autodesk Maya for keyframe animation and animation techniques ...

Epic Games

Character Animation Lead

Cary, NC · On-site

Lead the creation and implementation of high-quality, gameplay-driven animation in Unreal Engine * Prototype and iterate on new approaches to character movement, responsiveness, and player-driven ...

2K

Expert Animator

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$123K - $182K/yr

Familiar with Unreal Engine, including animation systems, asset integration, and runtime considerations. * Familiarity with Unreal Sequencer, camera language, and in-game cinematic workflows.

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All JobsUnreal Engine Gameplay Animator Jobs

Unreal Engine Gameplay Animator information

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$39

$70

How much do unreal engine gameplay animator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for unreal engine gameplay 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Unreal Engine Gameplay Animator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Unreal Engine Gameplay Animator, you need a strong background in 3D animation principles, character rigging, and a portfolio showcasing animation for interactive environments, often supported by a degree in animation or related fields. Proficiency with Unreal Engine, Maya or Blender, and understanding of animation blueprints and real-time workflows are typically required. Creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving are standout soft skills for working effectively with designers and programmers. These abilities are crucial for creating engaging, believable character animation that enhances gameplay and player experience.

What is the difference between Unreal Engine Gameplay Animator vs Character Animator?

AspectUnreal Engine Gameplay AnimatorCharacter Animator
Primary FocusAnimating gameplay elements, interactions, and in-game characters within Unreal EngineCreating character movements and performances for film, TV, or animation projects
Tools & SkillsUnreal Engine, Blueprint scripting, game physicsMaya, Adobe After Effects, motion capture
Work EnvironmentGame development studios, interactive media projectsAnimation studios, film production
Industry UsageVideo game industry, interactive experiencesEntertainment, film, television

While both roles involve character animation, Unreal Engine Gameplay Animators specialize in animating interactive gameplay elements within Unreal Engine, focusing on real-time responses and game mechanics. Character Animators typically work on pre-rendered or cinematic character performances for film or animation projects. The key difference lies in the environment and tools used, with Unreal Engine Gameplay Animators working primarily within game engines for interactive content.

What is an Unreal Engine Gameplay Animator?

An Unreal Engine Gameplay Animator is a professional who creates and implements character animations within the Unreal Engine, primarily for video games. They work closely with game designers and programmers to ensure animations are responsive and enhance gameplay experiences. Their responsibilities often include rigging characters, creating animation blueprints, and integrating animations using Unreal Engine's tools. These animators must have a strong understanding of both animation principles and the technical aspects of game engines. They play a crucial role in bringing characters and worlds to life in interactive environments.

What are some typical challenges Unreal Engine Gameplay Animators face when integrating animations with gameplay mechanics?

Unreal Engine Gameplay Animators often encounter challenges ensuring that animations blend seamlessly with real-time gameplay mechanics, such as syncing character movement with player inputs and maintaining responsiveness. Balancing visually appealing animations with the technical constraints of the game engine and optimizing performance for different platforms are also common hurdles. Collaboration with programmers and designers is essential to troubleshoot issues and refine animation systems, making communication and adaptability key skills for success in this role.
More about Unreal Engine Gameplay Animator jobs
What cities are hiring for Unreal Engine Gameplay Animator jobs? Cities with the most Unreal Engine Gameplay Animator job openings:
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Unreal Engine Gameplay Animator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Unreal Engine Gameplay Animator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Nights. 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.
AAA Gameplay Animator -- Unreal Engine Expert (San Mateo)

AAA Gameplay Animator -- Unreal Engine Expert (San Mateo)

2K Games, Inc.

San Mateo, CA • On-site

$123K - $182K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

2K Games, Inc. is actively seeking an Expert Animator in San Mateo, California. The ideal candidate will create high-quality in-game animations, leveraging strong knowledge of gameplay animation and tools like Maya and Unreal Engine. You'll collaborate with teams to enhance character motion and gameplay responsiveness.

This role requires 6-8+ years in game development with a track record of AAA titles. Competitive salary range of $123,200 - $182,360 per year along with comprehensive benefits awaits you.

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