An animation engineer is responsible for designing objects and characters in tri-dimensional layouts and using visual effects to come up with a convincing illusion. An animation engineer develops advertisement materials for websites and movies. This creative person collaborates with other experts in animation to improve the looks, movement and attributes of characters in the computer graphics. Animators must be skilled in digital technology and visual effects.
Average Annual Salary
At present, the average salary for animation engineer jobs is $66,000, according to Simply Hired, Inc. The average wages of animation engineers can vary because of the size of the company and its location. An animation engineer's compensation is also influenced considerably by the degree of the candidate's experience and the type of industry in which he works.
Median Wages
Animation engineers fall under the category of graphic designers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wages for graphic designers in May of 2008 was only $42,400. The middle 50 percent earned between $32,600 and $56,620. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $26,110 and the highest 10 percent earned more than $74,660. The median annual wages for employees doing computer systems design and related services during the same year was $47,680.
Starting Salaries
Animation engineers usually start with salaries of approximately $30,000 to $35,000 every year. This figure is similar to other entry-level positions in professional occupations. However, experience affects salary increases in the animation business. An animation engineer who demonstrates patience and proficiency can look forward to commanding a higher salary in the coming years.
Top-Paying States
The District of Columbia, New York and California are the top-paying areas for this position in the United States, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Washington, D.C. pays an average of $66,020 per year and $32 per hour. New York pays an average salary of $57,510 per year and average of $28 per hour. California pays average of $57,240 per year and an average of $27 per hour.
Qualifications and Skills
Animation engineers must have bachelor's degrees in fine arts or an equivalent course. Candidates for the position must also possess strong art and animation training, knowledge of Flash, 3D illustration, 3D animation, 3D web development, web design and 3D web illustration. The potential animation engineer should be competent in Adobe Photoshop and Adobe After Effects. They must also have a basic knowledge about PC operating systems, flex and tri-dimensional illustrating technologies. A prospective animation engineer must be able to work quickly and produce results within the selected production schedule. All candidates are expected to display a high level of creativity and good communication skills.
