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2D Background Artist Animation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Flying Bark Productions

3D Animation Lead

Denver, NC · On-site +1

The lead also coaches junior artists, collaborates with other departments, and supports production ... For over 50 years, our 2D and 3D production facility hascreated award-winning feature films and TV ...

Spinplay Games

Senior Technical Animator

Las Vegas, NV · On-site +1

$101K - $115K/yr

You'll work closely with artists, designers, and developers to build efficient animation pipelines ... Applications without a 2D animation portfolio will not be considered.

Steamroller Animation

NY · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

About Steamroller Animation It's different here. We're a fun-loving bunch, passionate about our ... Background in live TV, concerts, or virtual production (AR/XR). * Experience in a lead or mentor ...

TheLab

Compositing Artist

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$150K/yr

Key Responsibilities: 2D/3D Integration * Seamlessly integrate multi-pass CGI renders (including ... Work closely with CGI Supervisors, Lighting Artists, Modelers, Animators, and Production teams to ...

thelab

Compositing Artist

Manhattan, NY · On-site

Key Responsibilities: 2D/3D Integration * Seamlessly integrate multi-pass CGI renders (including ... Work closely with CGI Supervisors, Lighting Artists, Modelers, Animators, and Production teams to ...

TheLab

Compositing Artist

Manhattan, NY · On-site

Key Responsibilities: 2D/3D Integration * Seamlessly integrate multi-pass CGI renders (including ... Work closely with CGI Supervisors, Lighting Artists, Modelers, Animators, and Production teams to ...

thelab

Compositing Artist

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Key Responsibilities: 2D/3D Integration * Seamlessly integrate multi-pass CGI renders (including ... Work closely with CGI Supervisors, Lighting Artists, Modelers, Animators, and Production teams to ...

Progressive Gaming

Artist Principal Lead

Chicago, IL

$130K - $156K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Graphic Arts, 2D Animation, Motion Graphics, or similar discipline preferred or a combination of education and equivalent work experience in a related field. Job Knowledge ...

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2d Background Artist Animation information

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How much do 2d background artist animation jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for 2d background artist animation in the United States is $24.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a 2d background artist in animation?

A 2D Background Artist in animation is responsible for creating the visual environments in which animated scenes take place. They design and paint backgrounds that establish the setting, mood, and atmosphere of a story, working closely with directors and other artists to ensure consistency with the animation’s style. Their work helps bring the narrative to life by providing context and depth, supporting both the characters and the overall storytelling.

How does a 2d background artist in animation typically collaborate with other members of the production team?

A 2D Background Artist works closely with art directors, layout artists, and animators to ensure visual consistency and support the storytelling of the animation. They often participate in team meetings to review storyboards and receive feedback, adapting their backgrounds to fit the mood, tone, and perspective required for each scene. Effective communication and the ability to incorporate revisions quickly are important, as backgrounds need to seamlessly integrate with character animation and props. Collaboration tools like shared asset libraries and version control software are commonly used to streamline this process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 2d background artist in animation, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 2D Background Artist in Animation, you need strong drawing skills, an understanding of perspective and color theory, and a portfolio demonstrating relevant experience or a degree in art or animation. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as Adobe Photoshop, Toon Boom Harmony, or Procreate is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively with directors and other artists are essential soft skills. These abilities ensure the creation of visually compelling environments that support storytelling and the overall look of animated productions.

What is the difference between 2D Background Artist Animation vs 2D Character Artist?

Aspect2D Background Artist Animation2D Character Artist
Primary FocusCreating backgrounds and environments for animationsDesigning and illustrating characters for animations
Skills RequiredDrawing, painting, perspective, color theoryDrawing, anatomy, character design, storytelling
Work EnvironmentAnimation studios, post-production housesAnimation studios, game development companies
Common CertificationsArt degrees, portfolio, software proficiencyArt degrees, portfolio, software proficiency

Both roles require strong artistic skills and familiarity with animation software. While 2D Background Artists focus on creating immersive environments, 2D Character Artists specialize in designing compelling characters. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths within the animation industry.

Are 2D Background Artists in demand?

2D Background Artists are in steady demand within the animation and gaming industries, especially as visual content remains a key component of media production. Skills in digital painting, software like Photoshop or Toon Boom, and a strong portfolio can improve job prospects, with opportunities often available for freelance and full-time roles.

How much do 2D Background Artist Animations make?

2D Background Artist Animations typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Entry-level artists may start lower, while experienced professionals with strong portfolios and skills in software like Photoshop or Toon Boom can earn higher salaries.

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

A 2D background artist animation degree prepares individuals for roles such as 2D background artist, concept artist, or environment designer in animation, television, and film industries. These positions involve creating backgrounds and environments using tools like Photoshop or Toon Boom, often requiring a strong understanding of color, perspective, and composition. Additional roles may include storyboard artist or visual development artist, depending on skills and experience.

What states have the most 2D Background Artist Animation jobs?

States with the most job openings for 2D Background Artist Animation jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to 2D Background Artist Animation jobs?

For 2D Background Artist Animation jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various 2D Background Artist Animation job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,263 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Film, Animation and New Media Part-time Instructor Pool 2026-2027

Tampa, FL • On-site

University of Tampa
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about University of Tampaexternal

Part-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Teach one or two 4-hour courses per semester in Film, Animation, and New Media.

  • Create or utilize department-provided syllabi and course assignments.

  • Grade assignments and manage online/paperwork grading systems.

Job description

If you are a current University of Tampa student, please search for and apply to student jobs here via Workday. Job applications for current students will not be considered if submitted through the external career center.
Position Details
The Film, Animation and New Media Department (FMX) in the College of Arts & Letters at The University of Tampa invites applications for part-time instructors in Film and Media Arts, Animation, and New Media in the areas of critical studies of new media practices, animation, and media arts. Candidates specializations in critical studies in cinema and animation history, theory, ethics, and practice are sought to deliver introductory and specialty critical studies and history courses in to all majors in Film, Animation, and New Media, Animation and to a wide audience of university students on campus.
Courses taught will include World Animation; Media Arts: Theory and Practice; The World Image, and more.
Responsibilities will include:
1. Teach one or two 4-hours course(s) per semester.
2. Create syllabus, or utilize department syllabus and course assignments.
3. Provide meeting time outside of class hours for students.
4. Grade assignments.
5. Manage online/paperwork grading system.
The successful candidate will have:
1. PhD or Master of Arts degree in related area is required.
2. Minimum of a Master's Degree and at least 18 credit hours in your discipline, is required.
3. College teaching experience preferred in related areas.
Required Attachments
Please be sure to attach all required documents listed below in the attachment box at the bottom of the "My Experience" page of the application before continuing through the application.
Cover Letter
Curriculum Vitae
Additional Information
Applications for part-time positions are accepted on a continuous basis and reviewed by the department when openings become available. Future teaching assignments are on a term-by-term basis which may include fall, spring and summer.
The University of Tampa is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer dedicated to excellence through diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, sex, disability, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, marital status, gender identity, veteran status or any other non-job related criteria. The University of Tampa recognizes the importance of a multicultural community of students, faculty, and staff who seek to advance our commitment to diversity. The University invites applications from underrepresented groups and those who have academic experiences with diverse populations.
Submission Guidelines
To receive full consideration for a faculty appointment with The University of Tampa, please be sure to upload documents as required for this position at time of application submission. Once your application has been submitted, no changes may be made. Required documents should be submitted in the attachment box at the bottom of the "My Experience" page of the application before continuing through the application. Note: A maximum of five (5) documents may be attached to your application. If more than five (5) documents are required, please combine the additional documents into a single attachment so that you may continue through the application process.
Background Check Requirements
Finalists may be required to submit to a criminal background check.

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