Space Animator

Description: Space animators create 3D images of space and model theoretical constructions and phenomenon, to better understand and interact with the world around us.

Knowledge Required: A science animator needs extensive knowledge of complex math, plus mastery of many types of modeling and animation computer programs, or computer science and graphic design. For scientific animation, the ability to work with 3D modeling software is more important than the ability to draw.

Skills: Computer, research, mathematics, communication, problem-solving skills

Career Path: Many universities, community colleges, and trade schools offer degrees and courses in animation. After graduation, animators start with an internship at a research lab or animation company to gain experience. Although an interest in astronomy and science is preferred, space animators are not considered to be scientists.

Best Cities for this job: Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York City, Seattle, Chicago

Median Annual Income: National: $61,370 per year; CA: $84,590

Future Growth: Employment of animators is projected to grow six percent from 2012 to 2022.

From the field: “When making an animation I fail constantly… I only have to get it right once, then I can show my successful animation a million times.” -Zareh Gorjian

Did You Know?: The development of high-end computers has allowed scientists to build 3-D models on the computer, instead of building physical models of things such as spacecrafts and exploding stars.