1

2D Character Animator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

2D Animator

Austin, TX · On-site

$34.13/hr

Experienced 2D animator with a strong command of character acting and performance. * Proficiency in 2D animation software such as Clip Studio Paint, Toon Boom Harmony, etc. A bonus if experienced in ...

... 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 ...

Character Artist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$142K - $149K/yr

... animation, character design, industrial design, or a related field - or have equivalent hands-on portfolio experience. * Have a portfolio that shows character design or expressive design work, in 2D ...

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 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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

2D Character Animator information

See salary details

$10

$39

$70

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

As of Aug 17, 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 as a 2d character animator?

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of 2D Character Animator jobs?

The most popular types of 2D Character Animator jobs are:

Infographic showing various 2D Character Animator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,974 per year, or $39.4 per hour.

$34.13/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

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


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
The Animator is responsible for creating animated sequences or characters for the series production. They have a strong sense of anatomy and movement, and the ability to work with realistic characters in the production style.
Position Details
  • Contract Dates: August 24, 2026 - February 12, 2027
  • Rate: $34.13 per hour
  • Project Hours: 40 hours per week; hours worked in excess of 40 per week will be paid at one and one-half times the regular hourly rate.
  • Reports to: Animation Supervisor
  • Classification: Non Exempt, Full Time Employee
  • Location: To be considered for the position, all candidates must currently reside in Texas. Able to work onsite, remote, or hybrid.
  • This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement.

Requirements
  • Work closely with the Episode Directors, the Animation Supervisor, and other team members to ensure that the animated sequences meet the narrative and creative goals.
  • Keep up-to-date with the latest production notes and scripts, implementing changes and revisions as needed.
  • Ensure animations are delivered on time and in line with the production schedule.
  • Update the production tracker as necessary.
  • Troubleshoot and solve creative challenges to achieve the desired movement and performance.
  • Communicate any schedule and/or assignment concerns with the Animation Supervisor and Post Production Supervisor as soon as possible.
  • Attend production meetings as necessary.
  • Edit, clean up, and adjust outsourced animation assets as needed with internal standards and shot specific needs.
  • Provide animation draw overs and breakdowns to outsource partners to aid retake feedback.
  • Reconfigure and animate preexisting or new animation scenes.

Qualifications
  • Strong understanding of 2D animation principles, including timing, spacing, and squash-and-stretch.
  • Experienced 2D animator with a strong command of character acting and performance.
  • Proficiency in 2D animation software such as Clip Studio Paint, Toon Boom Harmony, etc. A bonus if experienced in Storyboard Pro.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt to feedback.
  • Strong organizational and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with other artists and directors.
  • Experience working within tight deadlines while maintaining a high level of quality.
  • Understanding of acting and character performance as it applies to animation.

Benefits We Offer:
  • Comprehensive medical coverage (including HSA options)
  • Dental and vision insurance
  • Life and AD&D insurance at no cost, with voluntary coverage options
  • Short-term and long-term disability insurance
  • Supplemental benefits, including accident and hospital indemnity coverage
  • Wellness programs, including telemedicine and chronic care support
  • Company Paid Holidays
  • Paid and Sick Time Off
  • 401K Contributions with up to a 4% Company Match after 90 days of employment

Powerhouse Animation Studios is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility as required by law. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Powerhouse Animation Studios also complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act and applicable state and local laws with regard to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities.
Salary Description
$34.13 per hour