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Video Game Animator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

General Motors

Senior Motion Designer

Warren, MI

$95K - $102K/yr

... gaming, and consumer tech trends to influence major product decisions. Your Skills & Abilities ... Motion, animation, or conceptual 3D * 5+ years of professional experience in UX Design, Product ...

All JobsVideo Game Animator JobsVideo Game Animator Jobs in Michigan

Video Game Animator information

See Michigan salary details

$10

$16

$20

How much do video game animator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for video game animator in Michigan is $16.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $17.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a video game animator?

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 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.

Are video 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 animation software like Maya or Blender and understanding of game engines such as Unity or Unreal are valuable for employment opportunities. The field offers opportunities in both large studios and independent development.

What are the most commonly searched types of Video Game Animator jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Video Game Animator jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Video Game Animator jobs in Michigan?

For Video Game Animator jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Video Game Animator jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Video Game Animator jobs in Michigan are:

Video Game Animator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Video Game Animator job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 83% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,643 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Student Game Developer (Student Position)

Ferris State University

Big Rapids, MI • On-site

$14 - $14.49/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Ferris State University rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

578th of 619 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Student Game Developer (Student Position)
Job no: 498110
Work type: Student Employment - General
Location: Big Rapids, MI 49307
Categories: Student Employment - General
Position Title: Student Game Developer (Student Position)
Location: Grand Rapids, MI
Department:
College of Pharmacy
Advertised Salary: $14.00-$14.49
Summary of Position: Seeking motivated student developers to join an interdisciplinary team creating a web-based educational video game. The game will teach players about antibiotics, vaccines, and their role in defending the body against harmful pathogens through engaging gameplay and interactive learning experiences
Position Type: Student
Position Requirements:
Current student at Ferris State University
Demonstrate skills in game design principles and game development
Experience creating 2D art and/or animation for video games
Proficiency using the Godot game engine
Strong problem-solving and critical thinking abilities
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with Git or other version control systems
Experience developing web-based games
Familiarity with user interface (UI) design and user experience (UX) principles
Portfolio demonstrating completed game projects, artwork, or animations
Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment
Reliable, self-motivated, and capable of managing assigned tasks independently
Availability to work 20-24 hours per week throughout the project (through Fall 2027)
Essential Duties/Responsibilities: Collaborate with faculty and student team members to design and develop gameplay systems.
Develop game features and mechanics using the Godot game engine.
Create and implement 2D artwork, animations, and user interface elements.
Participate in game design discussions, prototyping, testing, and iteration.
Debug, optimize, and maintain project code and assets.
Attend regular team meetings and communicate project progress effectively.
Contribute ideas and feedback to improve the overall player experience and educational value of the game.
Number of Positions Available: 1
Documents Needed to Apply: Resume
Job Close Date: December 31, 2026
EEO Statement: Ferris State University, an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer, is committed to enhancing equity, inclusion, and diversity within its community. Ferris offers employment opportunities to qualified candidates seeking careers in a student-focused environment that values opportunity, collaboration, diversity and educational excellence. Learn more about the Ferris Mission and community at ferris.edu. The University actively seeks applications from women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and other underrepresented groups. For more information on the University's Policy on Non-Discrimination, visit: Ferris Non-Discrimination Statement.
Advertised: 13 Aug 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 31 Dec 2026 Eastern Standard Time
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