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2D Character Animator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Flying Bark Productions

3D Animation Lead

Denver, NC · On-site

... 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 ...

2K

Senior Concept Artist (Characters)

Novato, CA

$100K - $148K/yr

As a Senior Character Concept Artist at Cloud Chamber, you will join our talented development team ... Sketch explorative thumbnails in 2D and 3D. * Proactively identify complex visual or pipeline ...

2K

Senior Concept Artist (Characters)

Novato, CA · On-site

$100K - $148K/yr

As a Senior Character Concept Artist at Cloud Chamber, you will join our talented development team ... Sketch explorative thumbnails in 2D and 3D. * Proactively identify complex visual or pipeline ...

COGSWELL COLLEGE LLC

Adjunct Faculty DAA

San Jose, CA · On-site

$3.0K - $4.5K/mo

Topics include scale and camera angle, camera movement, character staging, composition, and basic editing processes * 2D Animation, level 2 - Advanced study of facial animation and expression with an ...

William Paterson University

$2.1K/wk

Drawing, Figurative Drawing, Dynamic Figure Drawing, and other Drawing Courses * 2D, Digital ... Storyboarding & Production Design, Cell Animation I, 3D Character Animation, Advanced Cell ...

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

As of Jun 16, 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.

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2D Character Animator jobs near you
Infographic showing various 2D Character Animator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 21% Physical, 74% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,974 per year, or $39.4 per hour.

3D Animation Lead

Flying Bark Productions

Denver, NC • On-site

Other

Posted 19 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

Salary:

Flying Bark Productions is a dynamic and innovative animation studio dedicated to pushing the boundaries of character animation and storytelling. We are working on exciting projects such as Avatar: The Last Airbender feature film, Netflix's Ghostbusters animated series and Stranger Things animated series as well as upcoming feature film, Zac Power.


The 3D Animation Lead role involves managing and guiding a team of animators on a show, acting as the main contact between production and supervisors, and ensuring smooth communication and workflow. This role requires strong leadership skills, technical knowledge of animation tools (especially Maya), and the ability to solve creative and technical challenges while meeting deadlines. The lead also coaches junior artists, collaborates with other departments, and supports production needs to maintain high-quality animation output.


About the role:

  • Lead a team of animators on a show
  • Be the key contact for production and supervisor/s. Maintain clear communication, deal with creative challenges, provide solutions and adapt to changes in production & scheduling
  • Set and manage team assignments in collaboration with the animation supervisor
  • Have a good understanding of the animation tasks the team will be working on and the potential technical and creative challenges involved
  • Be prepared to deputise for the animation supervisor if necessary
  • Be aware of workflow templates, methodology and documentation; provide to the team where necessary
  • Work with technology teams to ensure that department tools are available for the team and properly set up for the show
  • Inform supervisors and Head of Department (HOD) of any advances made on a project for integration into other shows
  • May be required to work with HOD and supervisors on bids when requested
  • Effectively manage team to avoid potential conflict or disagreement
  • Maintain positive relationships with all other departments and address any issues promptly
  • Attend dailies and present the work of your team; guide artists on how to present their work
  • Coach, share knowledge and assume some responsibility for the progression of more junior members of the team
  • Provide regular feedback to the team to ensure that work is always delivered on time to the highest possible standard
  • Work with the technical animators to ensure that show wikis are kept up to date


About you:

  • Previous experience mentoring or leading a team
  • Thorough knowledge of Maya
  • An understanding of physical motion, weight, balance, texture and form
  • An understanding of rigs and typical rigging set-ups, animation pipelines and transferring data between tools
  • The proven ability to work under pressure
  • Being open to direction and able to embrace change
  • Attention to detail
  • Reliable, with good time keeping and the ability to meet deadlines
  • Excellent organisation, communication and interpersonal skills
  • A demonstrable commitment to creative collaboration within a team and with other departments
  • Adaptability and the willingness to learn new processes and technical skills
  • Working knowledge of modelling, rigging and Mel/Python scripting
  • Knowledge of human and animal anatomy as well as life drawing skills


What do we do?

Flying Bark Productions is a renowned independent producer of family-focused animation entertainment. For over 50 years, our 2D and 3D production facility hascreated award-winning feature films and TV series.


Why work with us?

  • We work on some pretty cool projects - check out our website: https://www.flyingbark.com.au/
  • We love dogs and you will often see some of our regular fluffy companions in the studio.
  • We have a hybrid approach to work. For this particular position, full remote could be an option.
  • Career development is important to us so we offer training and support opportunities whenever possible.
  • Our employees say our culture is the best they've ever experienced - everyone is welcome and celebrated!


Flying Bark Productions is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.