Strong working knowledge of workholding principles, clamping mechanics, and the effects of material ... Perform visual inspections requiring close vision and focus adjustments. Work environments include:
Strong working knowledge of workholding principles, clamping mechanics, and the effects of material ... Perform visual inspections requiring close vision and focus adjustments. Work environments include:
Visual Effects information
See Minnesota salary details
$10.59 - $15.56
4% of jobs
$17.12 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$15.56 - $20.53
66% of jobs
$24.04 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$20.53 - $25.49
6% of jobs
$25.49 - $30.46
5% of jobs
$30.46 - $35.42
2% of jobs
$35.42 - $40.39
1% of jobs
$40.39 - $45.35
3% of jobs
$45.35 - $50.32
1% of jobs
$50.32 - $55.28
6% of jobs
$55.28 - $60.25
4% of jobs
$60.25 - $65.22
0% of jobs
$10
$25
$65
How much do visual effects jobs pay per hour?
As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for visual effects in Minnesota is $25.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $28.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Visual Effects Artist, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Visual Effects Artist, you need strong artistic ability, a solid understanding of animation and compositing principles, and often a relevant degree or portfolio demonstrating your skills. Proficiency with industry-standard software like Adobe After Effects, Autodesk Maya, Nuke, and Houdini is typically required, along with knowledge of rendering engines and scripting languages. Creativity, attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and effective communication help artists excel in collaborative, deadline-driven environments. These skills ensure the creation of high-quality, believable visual effects that enhance storytelling and meet production goals.
What are visual effects (VFX) in film and television?
Visual effects (VFX) are techniques used in film, television, and other media to create imagery that cannot be achieved during live-action shooting. This includes digitally generated environments, characters, and effects such as explosions, weather, or fantastical creatures. VFX artists use software to seamlessly blend these elements with live footage, enhancing storytelling and bringing imaginative scenes to life. VFX can range from subtle background enhancements to spectacular, action-packed sequences. The field is constantly evolving with advances in technology and creativity.
What is the difference between Visual Effects vs Motion Graphics Designer?
| Aspect | Visual Effects | Motion Graphics Designer |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Creating realistic or fantastical effects integrated into live-action footage | Designing animated graphics and visual elements for videos and multimedia |
| Skills & Tools | Compositing, 3D modeling, software like After Effects, Nuke | Animation, graphic design, software like After Effects, Illustrator |
| Work Environment | Film, TV, advertising, post-production studios | Advertising agencies, media companies, digital content studios |
| Industry Usage | Used to enhance live footage with effects | Used to create animated titles, logos, and visual content |
While both roles involve Adobe After Effects and visual creativity, Visual Effects specialists focus on integrating effects into live footage, whereas Motion Graphics Designers create animated graphics and visual content for various media. Both roles are essential in multimedia production but serve different purposes within the industry.
What is the highest paid job in VFX?
The highest paid roles in VFX are typically senior positions such as VFX Supervisors or Creative Directors, who oversee large projects and teams. These roles often require extensive experience, advanced skills in software like Maya or Nuke, and strong leadership abilities, with salaries reaching six figures or more depending on the project and location.
How much do visual effects people make?
The average salary for visual effects artists varies by experience and location, with entry-level positions typically earning around $50,000 to $70,000 annually and experienced professionals earning $100,000 or more. Skilled VFX artists proficient in software like Maya, Nuke, or After Effects and with a strong portfolio tend to command higher salaries, especially in competitive markets or for high-budget projects.
What are some common challenges faced by visual effects artists in collaborating with directors and other departments?
Visual effects artists often work closely with directors, cinematographers, and editors to ensure that VFX elements align with the creative vision of a project. One common challenge is adapting to last-minute changes from directors or integrating VFX seamlessly with practical footage, which can involve technical problem-solving and flexibility. Effective communication is essential, as VFX artists must clearly explain the possibilities and limitations of digital effects to non-technical team members. Building strong collaborative relationships helps streamline feedback loops and ensures the final product meets both artistic and technical standards.
Is AI replacing VFX artists?
AI is increasingly used to assist VFX artists by automating repetitive tasks and enhancing workflows, but it does not fully replace the creative and technical skills required for visual effects work. VFX artists continue to be essential for complex, creative, and high-quality effects that require human judgment and expertise. Proficiency in industry-standard tools like Maya, Nuke, and Adobe After Effects remains important for VFX professionals.
Is visual effects a good career?
Visual effects is a growing field within the entertainment industry that involves creating digital imagery for film, television, and video games. It requires skills in software such as Adobe After Effects and Autodesk Maya, along with a strong understanding of design and technical principles. The career can be competitive but offers opportunities for creative expression and advancement with experience and a strong portfolio.
What are popular job titles related to Visual Effects jobs in Minnesota? For Visual Effects jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Visual Effects jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Visual Effects jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Visual Effects jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Visual Effects job openings:
Other
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO
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Job description
Description
Description
Who we're looking for: an experienced CNC machinist that is looking to get off the shop floor.
- You've spent time on the shop floor setting up and running 3-, 4-, or 5-axis CNC machines.
- You know feeds, speeds, and offsets because you've done the work-not just watched it.
- You have experience with CAD/CAM, fixture design, workholding solutions, or machining complex parts.
- You have experience in fixture design or complex part holding.
If you haven't run a CNC machine, this role isn't the right match. (It's not an IT, software-support, or call-center job.)
Sound like you? We'd love to hear from you. If not, thanks for taking a look and good luck with your search!
Are you a problem-solving, customer-focused professional with a passion for machining, workholding, and precision manufacturing? Do you enjoy applying your technical expertise, CAD experience, and knowledge of HMC, VMC, and 4- and 5-axis machining to develop creative solutions that help customers optimize their manufacturing processes?
At Mate Precision Technologies, we Respect, Support, and Inspire metalworking professionals around the world - and we're looking for a talented CNC Technical Solutions Specialist to join our team at our headquarters in Anoka, Minnesota.
As a CNC Technical Solutions Specialist, you'll collaborate closely with customers to evaluate machining applications, develop innovative workholding concepts, and recommend solutions that drive performance, productivity, and precision. This role blends hands-on machining experience, strong technical judgment, and clear communication to deliver the high-level support Mate is known for.
If you're ready to bring your machining expertise into a customer-facing, solution-driven role with opportunities for continuous learning and impact - this is the role for you!
Requirements
What You'll Do
As a CNC Technical Solutions Specialist, you will:
- Evaluate customer applications by assessing their machining and/or forming environments (HMC, VMC, 5-axis/5-sided setups, usable workspace, table layouts, and/or press brakes and related equipment).
- Analyze key machining factors including material type, removal rate, clamping method, and part size.
- Collaborate directly with customers to understand their manufacturing challenges across machining and metal forming processes while providing both pre-sale and post-sale technical support.
- Apply strong mechanical aptitude and deep product and process knowledge to diagnose customer challenges, develop practical solutions through engineering concept drawings, sketches, and 3D CAD models for Workholding and press brake applications. Prepare formal quotations, including establishing pricing and lead times using Mate's business systems.
- Develop working knowledge of press brake tooling and forming applications through structured training and hands-on experience.
- Deliver exceptional technical service that reflects Mate's industry-leading reputation for customer care.
- Work collaboratively with team members while demonstrating responsiveness, openness, and support.
- Model Mate's values through reliability, sound judgment, honesty, and accountability.
- Contribute to a respectful, communication-focused work environment.
- Perform all other duties as assigned.
What You'll Bring
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Minimum of 4 years of experience with multi-axis VMC/HMC machining, including machine setup and programming.
- Strong working knowledge of workholding principles, clamping mechanics, and the effects of material type and thickness.
- Practical understanding of cutting tool design, application, and performance.
- Hands-on experience with various tooling designs and machining applications.
- Proficiency in 3D CAD software such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or equivalent (preferred).
- Excellent spatial reasoning with the ability to visualize in 2D and 3D.
- Strong math skills, especially related to force, tolerances, and metric/inch conversions.
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints.
- Basic understanding of GD&T.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and online research tools.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills in English.
- What would be a bonus: Fluency in a foreign language-especially Spanish, Japanese, or French.
- What would be a bonus: Comprehensive knowledge in Press Brake or Punch Press Tooling
- Ability to work on-site at our Anoka, Minnesota headquarters five days per week.
Physical Requirements & Work Environment
This position involves both office and manufacturing environments. You will:
- Sit for extended periods and work on a computer.
- Use hands and fingers to operate office and engineering tools.
- Communicate effectively in written and verbal formats.
- Occasionally stand, walk, bend, reach, or stoop.
- Lift or move items up to 15 lbs.
- Perform visual inspections requiring close vision and focus adjustments.
Work environments include:
- A standard office setting with normal lighting, ventilation, and temperature.
- Occasional visits to manufacturing areas with moderate noise and required PPE.
Pay, Schedule & Benefits
- Hourly Pay Range: $38.00-$44.25 per hour depending upon education and experience
- Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short- & Long-Term Disability, PTO, Paid Holidays, and more
- Retirement: 401(k) with employer match and profit-sharing plan
- Award-Winning Wellness Program
- Tuition Reimbursement
If you're ready to apply your machining expertise in a role that blends technical problem-solving, customer partnership, CAD creativity, and innovation - join Mate!
About Mate Precision Tooling
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