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2D Animation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Apple

R&D Technical Artist

Cupertino, CA · On-site +1

$172K - $258K/yr

Using Final Cut Pro to edit video or 2D animation timelines. Creating models and animations for real-time and offline applications for VR/AR experiences or simulations.

Duolingo

Creative Technology Manager

Manhattan, NY · On-site

... 2D animation pipelines (Maya, Blender, Houdini, or Toon Boom, etc.). • Understanding of game design principles, especially for learning contexts. • A passion for the craft and a care for their ...

Solesbee's Equipment

Mechanical Draftsman

Winston, GA

$62K/yr

... 2D animation or visualizations as needed for project presentations or technical explanations Experience · Proven experience in mechanical drafting or design within an engineering or construction ...

Duolingo

Creative Technology Manager

Manhattan, NY · On-site

... 2D animation pipelines (Maya, Blender, Houdini, or Toon Boom, etc.) • Understanding of game design principles, especially for learning contexts • A passion for the craft and a care for their ...

Duolingo

Creative Technology Manager

Manhattan, NY · On-site

... 2D animation pipelines (Maya, Blender, Houdini, or Toon Boom, etc.). • Understanding of game design principles, especially for learning contexts. • A passion for the craft and a care for their ...

Duolingo

Creative Technology Manager

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

... 2D animation pipelines (Maya, Blender, Houdini, or Toon Boom, etc.) • Understanding of game design principles, especially for learning contexts • A passion for the craft and a care for their ...

Flying Bark Productions

3D Animation Lead

Denver, NC · On-site +1

The 3D Animation Lead role involves managing and guiding a team of animators on a show, acting as ... For over 50 years, our 2D and 3D production facility hascreated award-winning feature films and TV ...

Internet Soft

Video Editor

San Jose, CA · On-site

You can perform simple 2D animation, Motion graphics, and VFX * You are organized and with high attention to detail * You can deliver high-quality work while meeting tight deadlines Perks and ...

Precision Truss LLC

Be Seen First

Truss Designer

Shiloh, OH · On-site

Experience with 2D animation or interior design is a plus but not required. * Excellent attention to detail combined with strong communication skills to collaborate effectively across teams. This ...

Duolingo

Creative Technology Manager

New York, NY

A strong motion and design sensibility across 3D or 2D animation pipelines (Maya, Blender, Houdini, or Toon Boom, etc.) * Understanding of game design principles, especially for learning contexts * A ...

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2D Animation information

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$8

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$11

How much do 2d animation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for 2d animation in the United States is $10.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $9.86 and $11.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs can I get with a 2D animation degree?

A 2D animation degree can lead to roles such as 2D Animator, Character Designer, Storyboard Artist, or Motion Graphics Artist. These jobs typically require proficiency in software like Adobe Animate or Toon Boom and may involve working in entertainment, advertising, or game development industries.

How to get a 2D animation job?

To get a 2D animation job, build a strong portfolio showcasing your best work, learn industry-standard software like Adobe Animate or Toon Boom, and gain experience through internships or freelance projects. Networking within the animation community and staying updated on industry trends can also improve job prospects.

What are some common challenges 2D animators face when working on collaborative projects?

2D animators often work closely with illustrators, storyboard artists, and sound designers, which requires strong communication and adaptability. One common challenge is maintaining consistency in character movement and style across different scenes, especially when multiple animators are involved. Meeting tight production deadlines while ensuring high-quality animation can also be demanding. Successful animators stay organized, remain flexible to feedback, and use collaborative tools to synchronize their work with the broader team.

Does Disney still hire 2D animators?

Disney continues to hire 2D animators, especially for projects that involve traditional animation techniques or nostalgic content. Candidates typically need strong drawing skills, proficiency in animation software like Toon Boom or Adobe Animate, and a portfolio demonstrating their work. While the industry has shifted toward digital 3D animation, Disney still values and employs 2D animators for specific productions and legacy projects.

Will AI replace animators?

AI technology can automate certain tasks in 2D animation, such as in-betweening and background generation, but it is unlikely to fully replace human animators. Skilled animators are needed for creative direction, storytelling, and nuanced character work that AI cannot replicate. The role of 2D animators will evolve to incorporate AI tools to increase efficiency and focus on complex artistic aspects.

What is the difference between 2D Animation vs 3D Animation?

Aspect2D Animation3D Animation
Skills & ToolsDrawing, illustration, software like Adobe Animate, Toon BoomModeling, rigging, software like Maya, Blender
Work Environment2D studios, freelance, digital platformsFilm, gaming, visual effects industries
CredentialsAnimation courses, art background3D modeling, animation certifications
UsageCartoons, web animations, advertisingMovies, video games, simulations

While both 2D and 3D animation involve creating animated visuals, 2D animation focuses on flat, two-dimensional artwork using drawing and illustration skills, whereas 3D animation involves creating three-dimensional models and environments. The choice depends on project needs, with 2D often used for traditional and web animations, and 3D preferred for films and gaming.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 2D Animator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 2D Animator, you need strong drawing skills, a solid understanding of animation principles, and often a degree or certification in animation or a related field. Proficiency with industry-standard software like Adobe Animate, Toon Boom Harmony, or After Effects is commonly required. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with teams and bringing characters to life. These skills and qualities are vital to producing high-quality animations that engage audiences and meet project goals.

What is 2D animation?

2D animation is a technique in which images are created and manipulated in a two-dimensional space to create the illusion of movement. This style of animation is commonly used in cartoons, advertisements, video games, and explainer videos. Animators draw characters and backgrounds frame by frame or use software to animate digital illustrations. 2D animation can be done by hand (traditional animation) or using computer software such as Adobe Animate or Toon Boom Harmony. It remains popular due to its versatility, affordability, and classic aesthetic.
What cities are hiring for 2D Animation jobs? Cities with the most 2D Animation job openings:
What states have the most 2D Animation jobs? States with the most job openings for 2D Animation jobs include:
Infographic showing various 2D Animation job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 69% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 27% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $21,870 per year, or $10.5 per hour.
R&D Technical Artist

R&D Technical Artist

Apple

Cupertino, CA • On-site, Remote

$172K - $258K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Apple rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 661 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 30 rated technology retailers

Job description

Imagine what you can do here. Apple is a place where extraordinary people gather to do their lives best work. Together we create products and experiences people once couldn’t have imagined, and now, can’t imagine living without. It’s the diversity of those people and their ideas that inspires the innovation that runs through everything we do.
Description
APPLE INC has the following available in Cupertino, California and various unanticipated locations throughout the USA. Build highly interactive and graphically intense applications for some of Apple’s most advanced technologies, including the augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) support offered in ARKit and Metal2. Work alongside product designers and engineers on new applications demanding rapid experimentation and prototyping. Understand the state-of-the-art in real-time graphics and interactive 3D applications to help create prototypes for a broad range of application categories, including productivity, communication, and entertainment. Encapsulate the current POR and technological decision points and visually communicate them upwards within the team to leadership for critical program steering decisions. 40 hours/week. At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $172,100 - $258,600/yr and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.
PAY & BENEFITS: Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple’s discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You’ll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses - including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits: https://www.apple.com/careers/us/benefits.html.
Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.
Preferred Qualifications
N/A
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree or foreign equivalent in Industrial Design or a related field and 2 years of experience in the job offered or related occupation.
Education and/or experience must include:
Use Houdini, After Effects, and Cinema 4D to generate 3D Models for experience prototypes, concepts, and applications.
Use Final Cut Pro, Keynote, Houdini, After Effects, and Cinema 4D, to generate visual assets and animations for executive communications.
Creating 2D graphics in Illustrator, Sketch, and Photoshop.
Using After Effects to generate 2D animated motion graphics.
Using Final Cut Pro to edit video or 2D animation timelines.
Creating models and animations for real-time and offline applications for VR/AR experiences or simulations.

What Apple employees say

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976

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