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Video Game Animator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ten4

Senior Gaming Animator

Redwood City, CA

$129K - $148K/yr

Ten4 works with some of the best ad agencies, start-ups, production studios, and video game shops. * Drive animation performance without pushing out of a believable and realistic style; your hand ...

Ten4

Senior Gaming Animator

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$129K - $148K/yr

Ten4 works with some of the best ad agencies, start-ups, production studios, and video game shops. * Drive animation performance without pushing out of a believable and realistic style; your hand ...

Cloud Chamber

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA · On-site

$124K - $142K/yr

... video game animation. * Experience structuring & maintaining animation processes such as rigging or prototyping. * Experience working with motion capture data and editing it. * Excellent problem ...

Cloud Chamber

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA · On-site

$124K - $142K/yr

... video game animation. * Experience structuring & maintaining animation processes such as rigging or prototyping. * Experience working with motion capture data and editing it. * Excellent problem ...

2K

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA

$124K - $142K/yr

... video game animation. * Experience structuring & maintaining animation processes such as rigging or prototyping. * Experience working with motion capture data and editing it. * Excellent problem ...

2K

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA · On-site

$124K - $142K/yr

... video game animation. * Experience structuring & maintaining animation processes such as rigging or prototyping. * Experience working with motion capture data and editing it. * Excellent problem ...

Roblox

3D Animator (Short Term)

San Mateo, CA

Proven track record creating animations for video games (mobile, PC, or console experience a plus) * Strong sense of timing, weight, anticipation, follow-through, and polish in game animation ...

PUBG Madglory

Mid-Level/Senior Animator

Madison, WI · On-site +1

$106K - $121K/yr

Defines animation direction and execution even in ambiguous situations. * Organizes direction and ... Annual health & wellness, video game, and continuing education reimbursements * Industry-leading ...

Roblox

3D Animator (Short Term)

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$9.1K - $11K/mo

Proven track record creating animations for video games (mobile, PC, or console experience a plus) * Strong sense of timing, weight, anticipation, follow-through, and polish in game animation ...

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Video Game Animator information

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How much do video game animator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for video game animator in the United States is $18.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Video Game Animator?

As a Video Game Animator, your daily responsibilities often include creating and refining character movements, bringing game environments to life, and collaborating with designers and programmers to ensure smooth integration of animations. You’ll participate in team meetings, review feedback, and iterate on assets to improve quality and meet project deadlines. Animators also test and debug their work directly in the game engine to ensure fluid, responsive gameplay. Effective communication with other departments is crucial, as your animations must align with both artistic vision and technical constraints.

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

To thrive as a Video Game Animator, you need strong skills in character animation, motion design, and a solid understanding of animation principles, typically backed by a relevant degree or portfolio. Proficiency with industry-standard tools such as Autodesk Maya, 3ds Max, or Blender, along with knowledge of game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, is essential. Creativity, collaboration, time management, and strong communication skills set standout animators apart. These abilities ensure high-quality, engaging animations that enhance gameplay and contribute to effective teamwork in fast-paced development environments.

What does a Video Game Animator do?

A Video Game Animator creates the movement and behavior of characters, creatures, and objects in video games. They use animation software to design realistic or stylized motions that enhance gameplay and storytelling. Animators often collaborate with designers, programmers, and artists to ensure smooth, visually appealing animations that fit the game's style. Their work brings life to in-game models, making interactions and environments feel dynamic and immersive.

How much do video game animators make?

Video game animators typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Entry-level animators may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or working at major studios can earn higher salaries. Proficiency in animation software like Maya or Blender and a strong portfolio can influence earning potential.

Is 30 too late to become an animator?

Video game animators can start at any age, as the profession values skills, creativity, and proficiency with tools like Maya or Blender. Many successful animators begin their careers later in life after gaining relevant training or experience, so 30 is not too late to pursue this role.

Are game animators in demand?

Video game animators are in demand due to the growing gaming industry and the need for high-quality visual content. Skills in 3D animation, software like Maya or Blender, and understanding of game engines increase employability in this field.

Does Disney still hire 2D animators?

Disney continues to hire 2D animators for projects that preserve traditional animation styles, often requiring strong drawing skills and proficiency in software like Toon Boom or Adobe Animate. While 3D animation is prevalent, there is still demand for skilled 2D animators in certain productions and legacy projects.
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Video Game Animator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Video Game Animator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,600 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Senior Gaming Animator

Ten4

Redwood City, CA

$129K - $148K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Here at Ten4, there's a core focus on Creative Services. By only recruiting for Digital Creatives we can give the best attention and satisfaction to both the clients and the candidates. Being a niche company provides the ability to source top notch candidates and to make the best connections possible. Ten4 works with some of the best ad agencies, start-ups, production studios, and video game shops. 

Job Description
  • Drive animation performance without pushing out of a believable and realistic style; your hand-keyed work will fit seamlessly with motion capture
  • 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 understanding of body mechanics, force, balance, timing, and believability
  • Use motion capture, video, and thumbnail sketches as reference for your process
  • Prototype gameplay by blocking animation quickly; when ideas are proven, polish animations to a high level
  • Provide thoughtful feedback to team members and be open to critique
  • Create multiplayer characters and AI that execute believable and memorable performances
Qualifications
  • 5+ years in game development with at least 2 shipped games
  • Experience OR interest in PC multiplayer games
  • Experience with in-game animation and Maya
  • College/University Degree in Character Animation or similar
  • Full comprehension of camera, layout, and stagingS
  • Self-directed and independent worker

Major Plus:

  • Excellent hand-keyed facial animation
  • Motionbuilder and Unreal Engine experience
  • First-person animations experience
  • strong design eye
  • Strong knowledge of cinematography, editing, and story development
  • Experience creating state machines and controller schemes
Additional Information

Benefits and Perks: 

  • Competitive Salary with Stock Options
  • An open/unlimited Paid Time Off and Vacation Policy
  • Great medical, dental, and vision coverage for employee and dependents covered at 80% and company paid One Medical Group membership on top of your medical plan
  • Team lunch outings covered by company

Apply