Create special effects or animations using film, video, computers, or other electronic tools and media for use in products, such as computer games, movies, music videos, and commercials.
SOC: 27-1014.00
Common Job Titles
3D Artist (Three-Dimensional Artist)
Animator
Artist
Graphic Artist
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeDevelop procedural animation systems and particle effects using scripting languages such as Python, MEL, and MaxScript to automate workflows and enhance efficiency.
Advanced
KnowledgeDesign visual effects and animation sequences using industry-standard 3D software such as Maya, 3ds Max, and Cinema 4D for film, games, and commercial projects.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate digital animation and compositing software including Adobe After Effects, Photoshop, and rendering engines to produce high-quality visual content.
Proficient
KnowledgeSynthesize creative concepts with technical constraints to develop innovative visual solutions for multimedia productions under project deadlines.
Proficient
Hands-onExecute precisely character rigging, texturing, and lighting workflows in 3D modeling environments to achieve photorealistic or stylized visual outcomes.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate animation sequences and special effects for visual quality and technical standards in collaboration with directors, producers, and interdisciplinary creative teams.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate client feedback with artistic vision when refining animations and effects to meet project specifications and stakeholder expectations.
Proficient
KnowledgeCoordinate asset creation and delivery schedules with production teams to ensure timely completion of animated sequences within project milestones.
Proficient
KnowledgeApply principles of motion, timing, and physics to create believable animation and simulation effects for various media formats.
Developing
Hands-onManipulate digital assets including models, textures, and composited layers across multiple software platforms to maintain visual consistency throughout production pipelines.
Developing
KnowledgeAnalyze technical requirements and artistic direction to determine optimal animation techniques, rendering methods, and resource allocation.
Developing
MindsetEngage in continuous learning of emerging tools and techniques to stay current with evolving industry standards in visual effects and animation technology.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Special Effects Artists and Animators (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
21,280
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $57,220. 25th percentile: U.S. $73,030. 50th percentile: U.S. $99,800. 75th percentile: U.S. $135,600. 90th percentile: U.S. $174,630. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$57,220
10% of workers earn the following or more
$174,630
Workers on average earn
$110,110
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Computers and Electronics5.0/5
English Language4.4/5
Design4.2/5
Communications and Media4.1/5
Customer and Personal Service3.9/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
