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2D Character Animator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aquent

Motion & Character Designer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$58.60 - $65.10/hr

Create 2D and 3D character animations, motion graphics, and interactive motion experiences for mobile applications and web platforms. * Build and deliver production-ready interactive animations ...

MOD Worldwide, LLC

Motion Designer

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

Deliver polished animations (2D, 3D, Character, Compositing) working with team members across all disciplines: strategy, accounts, design, copy, and dev. * * Bring layout, typography, and design ...

Flying Bark Productions

3D Animation Lead

Denver, NC · On-site +1

... of character animation and storytelling. We are working on exciting projects such as Avatar: The ... For over 50 years, our 2D and 3D production facility hascreated award-winning feature films and TV ...

Skydance

Character Designer

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$2.9K - $4.0K/wk

Skydance Animation is seeking an experienced Character Designer to join our team on an upcoming ... Create clear and expressive character turnarounds, pose sheets, and supplementary drawings in 2D ...

Skydance

Character Designer

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$2.9K - $4.0K/wk

Skydance Animation is seeking an experienced Character Designer to join our team on an upcoming ... Create clear and expressive character turnarounds, pose sheets, and supplementary drawings in 2D ...

SciPlay

Senior Technical Artist

Austin, TX · On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Animation - 2D character specific * Scripting ability to common art tooling (Photoshop, 3dx Max) * C# scripting knowledge in Unity * Scripting ability using Python We are SciPlay! We make games! The ...

SciPlay

Senior Technical Artist

Austin, TX

$125K - $150K/yr

Animation - 2D character specific * Scripting ability to common art tooling (Photoshop, 3dx Max) * C# scripting knowledge in Unity * Scripting ability using Python We are SciPlay! We make games! The ...

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How much do 2d character animator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for 2d character animator in the United States is $39.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.88 and $63.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the 2D Character Animator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 2D Character Animator, you need strong drawing skills, an understanding of animation principles, and experience with character movement and expression, often backed by a relevant degree or portfolio. Proficiency with animation software such as Adobe Animate, Toon Boom Harmony, or TVPaint is typically required, and some roles may value certifications in these tools. Creativity, teamwork, strong communication, and the ability to accept and integrate feedback are invaluable soft skills in this position. These abilities ensure the creation of engaging, polished animations that meet project goals and foster effective collaboration within creative teams.

What does a 2D Character Animator do?

A 2D Character Animator creates movement for characters in a two-dimensional space, bringing them to life for films, TV shows, video games, or advertisements. They use software like Adobe Animate, Toon Boom Harmony, or TVPaint to design fluid and expressive animations. Their work often involves sketching keyframes, refining motion, and ensuring consistency in character movement. Strong artistic skills, an understanding of timing and physics, and attention to detail are essential for this role.

What are some common challenges faced by 2D Character Animators in a studio environment?

2D Character Animators in a studio setting often face tight deadlines, the need to quickly iterate on creative feedback, and the challenge of maintaining consistency across episodes or projects. They regularly collaborate with directors, storyboard artists, and other animators, which requires strong communication and the ability to adapt to different artistic styles and project needs. Keeping up with evolving animation software and industry trends can also be demanding. Despite these challenges, many animators find the work highly rewarding due to the creative input and team-driven environment that produces visually engaging content.

More about 2D Character Animator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of 2D Character Animator jobs? The most popular types of 2D Character Animator jobs are:
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2D Character Animator jobs near you
Infographic showing various 2D Character Animator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Locum Tenens, 27% As Needed, 21% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 29% Nights, and 12% Summer. Highlights an 71% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,974 per year, or $39.4 per hour.
Adjunct Faculty, 2D Animation (On Campus)

Adjunct Faculty, 2D Animation (On Campus)

Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design

Lakewood, CO

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Adjunct Faculty, 2D Animation (On Campus)
Salary: $2,440 (lecture) – $3,340 (studio) per class, per term
Location: Lakewood, CO
Target Fill Date: June 1st, 2026
Rocky Mountain College of Art +Design is looking for an Adjunct Professor who has expertise in 2D Animation. The faculty member works with the Chair and Program Lead of the Animation program, working closely with students, faculty, and administrative staff to advance teaching, student clubs and activities, co-curricular experiences, and curriculum development. They will work closely with academic leadership with a focus on teaching, monitoring and improving student learning and success, and performing duties as assigned by the Chair and the Program Lead.
RMCAD’s Digital Arts + Media Department offers degree programs rooted in industry-aligned practices, emerging technologies, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The successful applicant will have demonstrated expertise in Animation workflows, with an emphasis on character motion studies, performance-based animation, and scene development using Toon Boom Harmony. This position supports the continued design, development, and delivery of dynamic, studio-centered curricula and the advancement of learning outcomes to prepare students for leadership in an evolving digital landscape.
Required Qualifications
  • A graduate degree (MA, MS, MFA, MDes, or equivalent) in Animation, Game Art, Game Design, relevant Motion Graphics, OR a bachelors degree with a sustained record of professional or studio-based work in these areas.
  • Proficiency using and teaching industry-leading 2D Animation software, including, but not limited to ToonBoom Harmony (required), Storyboard Pro (required), Adobe Photoshop (bonus) Adobe After Effects (bonus), etc
  • Examples of pedagogical approaches that align with the institution's mission and values, along with evidence of effective and inclusive teaching that values a diverse student body.
Preferred Qualifications
  • A terminal degree (MFA or PhD) in Art, Design, or a related discipline OR equivalent professional distinction recognized at a national or international level.
  • 2+ years of teaching experience in an accredited postsecondary institution with proven expertise in teaching Animation or related digital media.
  • A sustained record of professional or studio-based work in Animation or related digital media, demonstrated through published short/feature films, series work, studio credits, freelance projects, portfolio, and/or client-based productions.
  • Ongoing engagement with contemporary, emerging industry practices and pipelines with demonstrated expertise in 2D animation production workflows, including character animation, scene development, and rigging/puppetry in Toon Boom Harmony. Experience with storyboarding, motion graphics, or visual development pipelines is also valued.
  • Courses taught may include 2D Animation I–IV (motion studies through advanced scene work), Drawing + Acting for Animation, Storyboarding, and Motion Graphics.
  • Candidates should have experience with character animation, performance-based animation, and scene development using Toon Boom Harmony. Experience with puppetry and rigging workflows in Toon Boom Harmony is strongly encouraged.
  • Knowledge of Storyboard Pro, Adobe Photoshop, and After Effects is preferred.
Working Conditions
This position involves teaching in a higher education environment and may include in-person and/or online instruction depending on course assignment. The role may require a flexible schedule, including daytime and evening hours. Work is typically performed in a classroom, studio, and/or computer-based environment and involves regular use of digital tools and software. The position requires interaction with students in both individual and group settings. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.
Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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