What is Maya?
Maya, also known as Autodesk Maya, is a software and a graphics application used to create 3D models, effects, and assets intended for use in such 3D products as video games, films, architectural plans and models, and other, often interactive, pieces of media. Maya has, since the late 90s, become a standard and one of the core tools in the film and video game industries, has become a part of the primary learning curriculum in schools devoted to these crafts, and has been used in many famous movies, such as Lord of the Rings.
How is Maya used?
Zippia reviewed thousands of resumes to understand how maya is used in different jobs. Explore the list of common job responsibilities related to maya below:
- Job Description: Painting texture maps and creating shading networks using Photoshop, Bodypaint, Mudbox and Maya.
- Led by animator and illustrator Cinzia Angelini Created textures in Photoshop for 3D Maya models
- Conceptualized and developed terrain models using Maya and partnered with director and animators to correspond and produce effective shots.
- Composed reference material and tutorials for utilizing Maya with the Elemental proprietary game engine.
- Created entire world zones including prop creation, UV mapping, and scene lighting using both 3D Studio Max and Maya.
- Utilize Maya, Houdini, and MPC s proprietary tools for simulating destruction, RBD, and particles.
Are Maya skills in demand?
Yes, maya skills are in demand today. Currently, 795 job openings list maya skills as a requirement. The job descriptions that most frequently include maya skills are texture artist, animation director, and character animator.
How hard is it to learn Maya?
Based on the average complexity level of the jobs that use maya the most: texture artist, animation director, and character animator. The complexity level of these jobs is challenging.
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What jobs can you get with Maya skills?
You can get a job as a texture artist, animation director, and character animator with maya skills. After analyzing resumes and job postings, we identified these as the most common job titles for candidates with maya skills.
Character Animator
Job description:
A character animator specializes in developing life-like character designs for film, television, advertisements, and video games using special animation software. Their job usually entails understanding project requirements, conducting research, developing drafts and models, adding different effects to enhance designs, presenting designs to lead animators, and performing revisions when necessary. They are also responsible for adhering to deadlines and budgets, producing reports, and solving issues and concerns. Moreover, a character animator usually works in a team setting, which requires an open and transparent line of communication for a successful workflow.
- Animation
- Maya
- Character Animation
- Motion Capture
- AAA
- Demo Reel
Layout Artist
- Animation
- Adobe Photoshop
- Maya
- Adobe Illustrator
- Graphic Design
- Adobe Indesign
Artist
Job description:
An Artist specializes in creating various artworks or prose; the audience can vary from individuals or the general public. An artist's responsibility depends on the industry, company, or position where they are assigned. However, most of the time, Artists are expected to work under specific guidelines, deliver materials in a required format within an allotted time and perform revisions according to what is preferred by an editor or client. Furthermore, independent artists may work freelance and receive commissions for their craft.
- Maya
- Adobe Photoshop
- Customer Service
- Graphic Design
- Photography
- VFX
Lead Artist
Job description:
The duties of a lead artist depend on one's line of work or industry of employment. Typically, their responsibilities revolve around liaising with clients to identify and meet their needs, coordinating with the creative staff in developing concepts and samples to present to the clients, conducting revisions, and submitting finished works according to the prescribed format and manner. Furthermore, as a lead artist, it is essential to spearhead the efforts and encourage the team to reach goals, all while adhering to the company's policies and regulations, including the clients' vision.
- Maya
- Animation
- Portfolio
- ZBrush
- UI
- Texture
Senior Artist
Job description:
A senior artist has a variety of duties and responsibilities. These include designing all the concept art, online advertising assets, and graphics, designing and creating marketing brochures, invitations, greeting cards, and other materials, and creating the process for different artwork. Additionally, you will be responsible for identifying client objectives and translating them into an efficient multimedia solution. As a senior artist, you are also expected to create original graphics and user interfaces for multimedia projects.
- Maya
- Animation
- AAA
- ZBrush
- In-Game
- VFX
Game Artist
Job description:
This individual is tasked with just one thing, and that is to create 2D or 3D art for visual elements in video games. Their task is crucial in the process of creating games. They visualize how a game will look and ensure it comes out exactly that way. They design a few preliminary sketches and develop them according to the general style of the video game. They are required to work on components like characters, textures, vehicles, colors, lighting, objects, and environment.
- Animation
- Maya
- Sketch
- UI
- Unity
- Concept Art
Visual Artist
Job description:
Visual artists are the type of artists that engage their audience through their eyes. This type of artist expresses their feelings in different ways. They can use any material to make their feelings known. Sometimes, they express their feelings using carved wood, digital imagery, and installations from objects they find randomly. They may use water vapor or bee pollen to let the world see their feelings, thoughts, and ideals. They can also choose to work independently or work with studios that produce cartoons, develop games, and have a fixed schedule to work on a project.
- Animation
- Maya
- Visual Development
- Visual Effects
- VFX
- Motion Graphics
Level Designer
Job description:
A level designer is an expert at designing and developing gameplays, including its characters and obstacles. Their responsibilities revolve around coordinating with the creative and development teams, conceptualizing plans and diagrams, performing extensive research and analysis, studying client feedback and current market trends, constructing prototypes, and performing tests to ensure the efficiency of the game. Furthermore, as a level designer, it is essential to monitor the entire production process, coordinating with staff every step of the way for quality end products.
- Unreal Engine
- Unity
- Maya
- Lua
- CAD
- PC
Animation Artist
Job description:
Animation artists or animators are skilled professionals who create multiple images that form animation, which can be seen in movies, commercials, television programs, and video games. To produce those illusions of movements, animation artists must use several animation software such as Maya, AfterEffects, and Photoshop. They must collaborate with graphic designers and editors to create animations for the entire show. Animation artists must also create high-quality animations by producing expressive characters that can portray a wide range of emotions.
- Animation
- Maya
- Character Animation
- Concept Art
- Motion Graphics
- Adobe Photoshop
Concept Artist
Job description:
The job of a concept artist is to make visual representations of creatures, characters, environments, vehicles, and other artistic assets. You should know about the design and how to create one that needs to blend well with any creative project. Your typical job includes drawing or painting these creative assets and providing references for any ideas you need to illustrate. The general qualifications needed to become a successful concept artist include illustration skills, design understanding, and knowledge of Photoshop.
- Storyboards
- Maya
- Animation
- Sketch
- Art Direction
- Graphic Design
Compositor
Job description:
Compositors are the creators of a frame, shot, or sequence final image. They usually combine various digital elements to produce a believable picture. Following the direction of the style chosen for the set is part of these compositors' responsibilities. These workers create their visual effects and high-quality composites using special effects (SFX) like 2D and 3D animation and CGIs. They use these digital elements to create convincing shadows, enhance a picture's lighting, and static background plates.
- VFX
- Visual Effects
- Animation
- CG
- Maya
- Mocha
3D Designer
Job description:
The primary job of a 3D designer is to design and create three-dimensional models based on a client's specifications and requirements. Your duties will include developing a 3D design for new products, reviewing and enhancing the 3D design of existing products, and understanding project requirements. Using computer-aided design (CAD) tools, you will develop a design layout for complex projects as well as primary models and sketches for final product design. As a 3D designer, you are also responsible for participating in brainstorming sessions and team meetings.
- Sketch
- Animation
- Maya
- Visualization
- Revit
- Adobe Photoshop
How much can you earn with Maya skills?
You can earn up to $87,154 a year with maya skills if you become a texture artist, the highest-paying job that requires maya skills. Animation directors can earn the second-highest salary among jobs that use Python, $71,266 a year.
| Job title | Average salary | Hourly rate |
|---|---|---|
| Texture Artist | $87,154 | $42 |
| Animation Director | $71,266 | $34 |
| Character Animator | $72,126 | $35 |
| Layout Artist | $66,888 | $32 |
| Artist | $68,690 | $33 |
Companies using Maya in 2025
The top companies that look for employees with maya skills are Meta, Electronic Arts, and Apple. In the millions of job postings we reviewed, these companies mention maya skills most frequently.
| Rank | Company | % of all skills | Job openings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Meta | 57% | 11,333 |
| 2 | Electronic Arts | 4% | 28 |
| 3 | Apple | 4% | 3,106 |
| 4 | The Walt Disney Company | 4% | 2,654 |
| 5 | Activision Blizzard | 3% | 98 |
Departments using Maya
| Department | Average salary |
|---|---|
| Engineering | $110,069 |
| Art/Design | $89,175 |
20 courses for Maya skills
1. Maya: The Basics
If you are looking for a focused introduction to Maya 2020 then this is the class for you!...
2. Maya for Beginners: Animation
In this course you will gain an understanding of animation and its fundamental principles while beginning to master the industry standard software Autodesk Maya...
3. Cinematic Lighting in Maya
Hey guys would you like to create amazing renders for your portfolio? Would you like to learn how to create cinematic looking compositions? If that is the case I welcome you to Cinematic Lighting in Maya...
4. Introduction to Autodesk Maya
Learn the basics of Autodesk Maya in this introductory course!...
5. Maya for Beginners: Rigging
Lets learn what it takes to make models move! We will give our character real bones so we can articulate the model for animation...
6. Maya for Beginners: Texturing
In this second part of the course series we will learn how to give color and texture to our 3D models!...
7. Maya for Beginners: Complete Guide to 3D Animation in Maya
You can do your own 3D animations in Autodesk Maya! Learn everything you need to know to get started - taught by a Hollywood professional! As the industry standard 3D animation software, learning Autodesk Maya is a great skill to help you land a job in the film, music and gaming industry. In this course, you'll learn how to create your entire animation from scratch. What will you learn?Getting started with Maya and understanding the interfaceModeling your own objects and scenesShading your objectsCreating proper UVsTexturing your objects Lighting your scene and creating shadowsRendering your projectRigging characters to prepare for animationsAnimating with keyframesMotion graphics animation (MASH) toolkitSimulating dynamic effects like cloth and smokePutting together an entire sceneLearn by doing real world projects! Throughout this entire course, you'll be working on a Dia de Los Muertos inspired scene with a complete animated skeleton. By the end of the course, you'll truly be inspired by your own skills, and confident in using Autodesk Maya. What do you get when you enroll?25+ hours of easy-to-follow tutorialsBonus animation demonstrationsDownloadable project files for every step of the coursePremium support to help you as you take the courseWhy learn from us?Lucas Ridley is a professional 3D animator who has worked on Hollywood films such as Steven Spielberg's Ready Player One. His students love him, and we're sure you're going to enjoy this class. Lucas breaks down the most complicated steps of animating in Autodesk Maya, so that you can easily start animating on your own! Phil Ebiner is the founder of Video School Online, and has taught over one million students around the world with our top-rated courses. We only partner with the best instructors, so you'll know that you're getting a great course with this one! Our 30-day 100% money-back guarantee! We want you to be happy. If there's any reason you aren't enjoying the course, and getting what you expected, we'll refund your money. We can't wait to see you in the course! Cheers, Phil + Lucas...
8. Learning Autodesk Maya 2016
In this Learning Autodesk Maya 2016 training course, expert author Todd Palamar will teach you the basic fundamentals of Autodesk Maya. This course is designed for the absolute beginner, meaning no previous experience with Autodesk Maya is required. You will start by touring the Maya interface, then jump into learning about nodes and transformations. From there, Todd will teach you about polygon modeling, including how to select polygon components, extrude faces, and how to extrude along a curve. This video tutorial also covers texturing, rigging and weighting, and animation. Finally, you will learn about rendering with mental ray. Once you have completed this computer based training course, you will be be fully capable of modeling, texturing, animating, and rendering in Autodesk Maya. Working files are included, allowing you to follow along with the author throughout the lessons...
9. Unwrapping Techniques in Maya
Unwrapping! That's my favorite part of 3D content creation... said no one ever. However, unwrapping is a necessary evil and is not the 3D process of scratching your nails across the blackboard. In this course you will be doing a whole lot of unwrapping of models that are of different shapes and sizes. By the end of the course, our aim is to give you the skills and the knowledge to efficiently unwrap and layout a model's UVs...
10. Maya 2022 Beginners Course
Hi everyone welcome to Maya 2019 beginners course my name is Vito and i'm going to be your instructor throughout this course. This course is for those with no prior experience in Maya or 3D Modeling in general. Not only you'll learn Maya but you'll be introduced to fundamentals of 3D Modeling which will help you work with any 3D Modeling application. This in-depth Maya course is designed to help you get a solid understanding of the core features found in Maya, and help you to ease your transition into this very powerful program. During the course of these lessons, you'll have a chance to learn about different aspects of Maya. In the first portion of this course, you'll get familiar with the fundamental skills that you'll need in order to begin moving around and working in Maya. From there, you'll move into exploring some of the modeling features found in Maya, From there, you go through the entire process of creating materials and textures. Then, you'll see the process of uv unwrapping. Finally, you'll discover how to add lights, shadows, and how to render your final animated sequence. This course is designed for new Maya users, so its goal is to help you form some really good habits and workflows, allowing you to see the entire start-to-finish pipeline, and by the end of this Maya course, you'll be at a point where you can feel very comfortable using the software. So let's go ahead and get startedNote: This course was recorded using Maya 2019, but since there are no major changes in the UI or functionality of the software. Course is fully relevant...
11. Complete Guide to Maya
Do you want to learn about the 3d world? Would you like to create environments, characters and tell your own stories? Would you like to learn all of that in a single course? if that is the case then I welcome you to Complete Guide to Maya: Learn to create complete animation shots for your short films. WHY SHOULD YOU LEARN FROM ME: My name is Abraham Leal. I have 11 years of experience in the industry and I will be your instructor throughout this course. In this super ambitious course I will guide you through the exciting world of 3D Animation. We will first cover the basics of Maya such as the interface and basic workflows. We will then start working on a 15 sec animation and we will do everything from 0. Modelling, rigging, animation, rendering, everything. This is a super complete course where you will be able to follow along and create your own animation. BENEFITS: By the end of this course, You'll be able to model, texture and render assets inside of MayaAnimate and rig simple objectsCreate cinematic looking animations and storiesWHAT WILL I LEARN: Maya InterfaceModellingTexturingRiggingAnimationRenderingPost ProductionCOURSE PROJECTS: In this course we will go over all the different areas inside of Maya. The course has 10 chapters where we will take a deep dive into all of the necessary tools to produce the short. IS THIS COURSE RIGHT FOR ME: This courses is aimed towards beginner level students who are starting their 3d journey however even experienced students can get a lot of useful information from our main projectWHAT SHOULD I KNOW OR HAVE FOR THE COURSE: We will be using Maya, Substance Painter and a little bit of After Effects at the end. Make sure to have all of the software installed and updated. JOIN ME NOW: Join me and become a great 3D Artist...
12. Maya 2017 - Create Pixar cartoon scene using Arnold and Maya
More about the Instructor: This course is designed by Animation Hacks which is the visual effect studio with high-quality skill artist work on numerous unannounced projects. In addition, they enjoy sharing their knowledge with those students who learn 3D online. NOTE FOR STUDENTS - please take a look Section 1 / Lecture 1 to downloads for the source attachment link with the lesson.)...
13. Learn Maya - Intro to 3D Box Modeling Techniques with Maya
POSSIBILITIES ARE ENDLESS IN 3D 3D modeling is part of a huge industry that includes; movies, television, product design, video games and many more. As a 3D modeler it is your job to take a conceptual design (pencil and paper) and build it in 3D space within the computer (Maya). The magic that you will feel and master as your model begins to take life is something that you will want to experience many times over. BEGIN WITH THE BASICS This course will quickly introduce you to the basics that you will use to build your career upon. The basics aren't something that you will learn and then forget, but they will stick with you from day one throughout the rest of your career. You will learn to master 3D space and working with primitive shapes that will take a on a life of their own as you breathe life into them pulling, pushing and twisting the geometry wherever your imagination takes you. Some of the topics you will master during this course will include: Basic 3D ConceptsWorking with Basic Primitive Shapes (Cubes)Accessing Sub-Component Modes of Your Shapes to Build Complex ModelCommon 3D Modeling Tools Found in Mayaand more. After mastering the basics you will then move on to creating a portfolio ready model. Through the step-by-step instruction you will take the knowledge you are mastering and create this model from scratch, starting with nothing more then a 3D cylinder. Join this course and begin your journey from novice 3D modeler to paid professional. the journey maybe long at times but well worth the time invested!...
14. Maya 2018 VFX - Learn to create Visual effects using Maya
In this intermediate level course, you will be taken through a VFX shot from start to finish by creating a crashed spaceship complete with CGI smoke! Start by matching the movement of your real camera in the computer using Autodesk Matchmover which is available for FREE. You will then model your spaceship using the industry standard Maya 2018 and unwrap the objects UVs so you can create textures. You will then go on to light your shot to match the background using the industry standard Arnold renderer which is included in Maya 2018. Finally you will output render passes using Arnold AOVs and Maya render setup, and composite them together using the industry standard compositor Nuke to make your final shot. This course is designed to give you as much information as possible for you to create your own shots using the same workflow. Take this course today to start creating photorealistic VFX shots!...
15. Maya for Beginners: Dynamic FX
In this final section of the "Maya for Beginner" series we will cover how to create interesting animated dynamic effects through simulations . You can start with this section if you like but I highly recommend taking one of the other sections first as this is a more advanced topic for a true beginner and I would recommend the order: modeling texturing rigging animation and then this course. ...
16. Introduction to Animation in Maya
Are you a beginner who wants to learn the tools and techniques for animation inside of Maya? Would you like to learn animation with easy to follow exercises and projects? If that is the case then I welcome you to nexttut's Introduction to Animation in Maya. Course Goal: At the end of this course you will be able to animate scenes using universal techniques and concepts. You will understand how to apply the different principles of animation and how to utilize the tools inside of Maya to create great scenes. What I Will Learn: In this course we will be covering: Animation tools in Maya Principles of Animation IK and FK systems Body Mechanics MASHRendering I will start the course by teaching you the basics of animation in Maya, we will explore some of the most classical exercises like the bouncing Ball and the Pendulum Swing to understand some core concepts. We will then jump into more advancer animations like a Walk Cycle, Body Mechanics and even a combat animation. I have designer this course for students who want to learn the basics of the animation world inside of Maya. Basic knowledge of the Maya interface is recommended. We will be using Maya and Arnold so make sure to have both elements installed. Join me and you will be animating inside of Maya in no time...
17. Introduction to Rigging in Maya
Is this Course Right for Me: Hey Guys! Do you want to learn the secrets and techniques to rig your own 3D Assets? Would you like to understand the how's and whys of the rigging process? This course is for those who wants to rig their characters and props but don't have any rigging knowledge at all. If that is the case then I welcome you to Nexttut's Introduction to rigging in Maya course. Throughout this course we will be exploring all the basic principles of rigging while learning the proper techniques to create efficient and flexible rigs. We will start with simple exercises to understand the main tools and concepts and we will then jump onto more advanced rigs. In this course you will learn Rigging BasicsRigging Mechanical ObjectsRigging Characters and CreaturesRigging PropsInstructor: My name is Abraham Leal, I am 3D Artist and producer and I have 8 years of experience in the industry. Currently I lead my own studio Critical Hit where we design and produce projects for the entertainment Industry. Project Based Course: In this course we will work on multiple projects. This course is aimed towards students with basic knowledge in Maya, however the tools that we will be covering are easy to grasp and easy to follow. We will be using Maya so make sure to have your software up to date. Join me and you will be rigging inside of Maya in no time...
18. Learn Maya In Three Hours
Learn Maya In 3 Hoursps. I am using Maya 2018 during this course but you can follow along in the latest versions. Have you ever wanted to create amazing 3D models and 3D animations? Want to learn how to create 3D gaming assets? Do you want to learn how to use the industry standard 3D Modeling and 3D Animation software: Autodesk Maya 2018?Autodesk Maya 2018 is seen as the industry standard when it comes to 3D modeling, 3D design and 3D animation. Learn how to render your 3D animations and scenes using the amazing Arnold renderer now built into Maya 2018! Don't have a copy of Maya 2018? - No problem! - You can download a 100% FREE educational version from the Autodesk. This course consists of 25 Maya lessons where you will learn how to: Use the Maya 2018 interfaceCreate your own amazing 3D modelsAnimate and create your own awesome 3D scenesCreating your own materials using the Hypershade in Maya 2018Using HDRI maps for lighting and reflectionsHow to use Image Planes to model amazing 3D assetsWorking with lights in Maya 2018How to create amazing animations using the Maya Graph EditorHow to create stunning 3D textHow to do physics simulations in Maya 2018 using the Bullet Physics EngineUV and UV projectionsRendering your scene and animations using the amazing Arnold Renderer in Maya 2018 - All of this and much more in only 3 hours!!! During the three hours you will learn all the basics and even some advanced techniques using this amazing 3D application! Master these 25 lessons and you will be able to create anything that you can imagine! Good luck and have lots of fun using Autodesk Maya 2018!...
19. Hard Surface Modelling in Maya
Do you find it difficult to model hard surface objects inside of Maya? If that is the case then I welcome you to Hard surface Modelling in Maya course. WHY SHOULD YOU LEARN FROM ME: My name is Abraham Leal and I have 11 years of experience in the industry. I have been teaching 3D for the past 7 years while managing my own studio in Mexico. BENEFITS: By the end of this course, You'll be able to model hard surface objects inside of maya with proper topology and edge flow. You will be able to tackle complex shapes and simplify them using the necessary workflow for subdivision modelling. You will be able to create professional looking renders to present your hard surface models. WHAT WILL I LEARN: Hard Surface Tools and TechniquesSubdivision workflowEdgeflow controlProper TopologyMaterial SetupStudio LightningRenderingCOURSE PROJECTS: The project is divided into 6 chapters, the first chapter will serve as an introduction to the most important concepts and tools. The next chapters will each focus on common objects you might have to model while in a professional project. These projects will show specific elements and techniques that can be applied to a variety of props. At the end we will prepare renders for all of our objects and present them in a professional way. IS THIS COURSE RIGHT FOR ME: I have designed this course for beginner level students who want to learn the proper way to model and create hard surface models inside of Maya. This course is also designed for anyone who wants to polish their workflow and discover new ways to approach complex objects inside of Maya. WHO IS NOT THE IDEAL STUDENT: This course is for beginners and not for advance users. If you are looking for advanced complex hard surface modelling then this course is not for you. WHAT SHOULD I KNOW OR HAVE FOR THE COURSE: A basic understanding of the Maya interface is expectedYou should have Maya installed with its latest update along with Arnold (included in Maya)You need a software called Pureref to view the reference images. This software is free. Join me! And start creating amazing Hard Surface Models ready for production inside of Maya...
20. 3D Modeling & Animation with Maya
***This course is being added to weekly*** This is meant to be a fun, introductory course on the full 3D pipeline using Autodesk Maya, the premiere 3D content creation and animation software. This course is specifically meant for students at the high school level or above. We are going to be learning how to use Maya, we will start learning polygonal modeling, then we will learn texturing, rigging, animation, lighting and rendering. We will even be doing simple character and creature modeling & animation. It's my goal to get you up to speed feeling the confidence to model anything you want, texture it, rig it, animate it, light and render it. You'll finish this course able to do 3d modeling of any creature or character you want for games, videos, effects, or internet memes. 3d modeling and animation will open up new worlds of creativity for you! Learning can be difficult. That's why I encourage my students to have fun with the process and regularly take the time to not take the difficult process of learning too seriously. If you're not having fun learning 3d it's simply not worth your time, that's why I guarantee this will be the most entertaining course on 3d animation in Maya that you'll ever take! Join me as we have a blast learning to master Autodesk Maya together!...