Job opportunities for animators in 2025

If you are studying animation or are already involved in the world, this is of interest to you: the creative industry is more alive than ever. New technologies, streaming platforms, immersive experiences and a boom in audiovisual content have opened up a range of job opportunities that go far beyond cinema.  

In this article we tell you about the most promising jobs in the animation sector in 2025, with profiles, approximate salaries and key tools.   

Spoiler: creative talent has more opportunities than ever if you know where to look.  

Video games, film, advertising... where's the real deal?  

It is no longer just about animating well, but about knowing how to move in environments such as Unreal Engine, Blender, Houdini, After Effects or even generative AI. With the expansion of digital content and new technologies, companies are looking for profiles that master both the artistic side and the technical tools.  

3D animation in video games  

One of the most demanded fields. From large studios such as Ubisoft or Riot to indie teams, all need animators who master characters, physics and natural movements.  

• Profile: Character animator, rigger, technical animator  

• Average salary: 30.000 - 60.000€/year  

• Common software: Blender, Maya, Unreal Engine  

Tip: mastering real time pipelines opens many doors. 

Animated films and series  

With the growth of platforms such as Netflix, HBO or Filmin, animation is no longer just for kids. There are more and more series for adults and movies that bet on hybrid styles or traditional 2D.  

• Profiles in demand: Storyboard artists, layout, compositing, 2D and 3D animation  

• Average salary: 25,000 - 70,000€/year  

• Advantage: many studios offer remote or hybrid positions  

Advertising and motion graphics  

Motion designers are the kings of digital campaigns. Fashion, technology and music brands are looking for animated pieces for social networks, reels, banners or events.  

• Most wanted profiles: Motion designer, 2D animator  

• Freelance salary per project: 2.000-10.000€  

• Key programs: After Effects, Cinema 4D, Illustrator  

Special effects and VFX  

If extreme realism is your thing, VFX is your way. Whether for film, series or video games, animators of particles, creatures and physical simulations are in high demand.  

• Profile: FX Artist, Technical Animator, Creature FX  

• Common software: Houdini, Nuke, After Effects  

• Average salary: 35.000-65.000€. 

What profiles do they need and how to stand out in such a creative sector?  

Many studios are looking for multidisciplinary teams and profiles that can adapt content to platforms and formats. Our top 3 most demanded profiles are:   

1. 2D/3D animators  

2. Character designers  

3. Unreal Engine content developers  

How do I stand out in the industry?  

• Portfolio and updated reel: it is your cover letter. Don't put everything: select the best and adapt it to each offer.  

• Specialization + versatility: if you master something specific and can adapt to different teams, you have an advantage.  

• Constant networking: festivals, Discords, forums, fairs... visible talent is the one that gets a job.  

At La Salle, we promote creative talent with programs such as the Degree in Animation and VFX or the Master in Digital Arts and Creative Technologies. Each itinerary is designed to respond to the real demands of the industry, with a strong connection with studios, production companies and international festivals.   

Here you not only learn to create, but also to project your professional profile from the very first course. If storytelling, designing worlds or bringing characters to life is your thing... this is the place for you.  

ANIMATION & VFX AT | LA SALLE-URL

YOUR FUTURE STARTS HERE!