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Animation Artist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AgreeYa Solutions

VFX Artist III

Los Angeles, CA

VFX Artist III Los Angeles, CA (Hybrid) As a Senior Real-Time VFX Artist, you will work closely with animators, artists, and designers to create exceptional action and combat experiences. Leveraging ...

ACLC

Graphic Artist

Randolph, TX

$145K - $174K/yr

Adjusts and improves the appearance of animations by altering facets such as light, color, shadow, or transparency * Collaborates with other animators, artists, and others to create complete ...

Advanced Computer Learning Company

$116K - $139K/yr

Adjusts and improves the appearance of animations by altering facets such as light, color, shadow, or transparency * Collaborates with other animators, artists, and others to create complete ...

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How much do animation artist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for animation artist in the United States is $29.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.76 and $32.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Animation Artist do?

An Animation Artist creates visual sequences for films, television, video games, and other media by designing characters, backgrounds, and special effects that bring stories to life. They use both traditional drawing techniques and computer software to produce animated images. Animation Artists often work closely with directors, writers, and other artists to ensure their work matches the creative vision of a project. Their role can include storyboarding, creating models, rigging, and adding motion to characters and environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Animation Artist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animation Artist, you need strong drawing abilities, a solid understanding of animation principles, and typically a degree in animation or a related field. Proficiency in industry-standard software such as Adobe After Effects, Autodesk Maya, or Toon Boom Harmony is commonly required. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective collaboration skills are crucial soft skills for standing out in this role. These competencies ensure the production of visually compelling animations that meet project goals and resonate with audiences.

What are some common challenges Animation Artists face when working on collaborative projects?

Animation Artists often collaborate with writers, directors, and other artists, which can sometimes lead to challenges such as aligning creative visions and meeting tight deadlines. Balancing feedback from multiple stakeholders while maintaining consistency in animation style is a key aspect of the role. Additionally, adapting to rapidly changing project requirements and new software tools is common, so strong communication skills and flexibility are essential. Despite these challenges, working collaboratively can also lead to creative growth and valuable learning experiences.

Is animator a high paying job?

Animator jobs can offer competitive salaries, especially for those with experience, specialized skills, or work in high-demand industries like film or video game development. Entry-level positions tend to pay less, but experienced animators with strong portfolios and proficiency in tools like Maya or Adobe Animate can earn higher wages. Overall, animation can be a well-paying career, but salaries vary based on location, experience, and industry.

Does Disney still hire 2D animators?

Disney continues to hire 2D animators for certain projects, especially for legacy and specialty productions, though the company primarily focuses on 3D animation for most new films. Skilled 2D animators with proficiency in traditional techniques and software like Toon Boom or Adobe Animate remain valuable for specific roles and artistic styles.

What jobs can I get with animation?

Animation artists can pursue roles such as 2D or 3D animator, character designer, storyboard artist, visual effects artist, or motion graphics designer. These jobs are common in industries like film, television, video game development, advertising, and digital media, often requiring proficiency in tools like Adobe After Effects, Maya, or Blender.

What jobs can I do with animation?

Animation artists can work in various roles such as 2D or 3D animator, character designer, storyboard artist, visual effects artist, or motion graphics designer. They often work in entertainment, advertising, gaming, or film industries, using tools like Adobe After Effects, Maya, or Blender, and may require a portfolio or specialized training.
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Animation Artist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animation Artist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 69% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 27% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,546 per year, or $29.1 per hour.
Assistant Professor of Animation

Assistant Professor of Animation

Champlain College Incorporated

Burlington, VT • On-site

$64K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Job Description
Champlain College seeks a highly experienced animation artist-educator to join our faculty as an Assistant Professor within the BFA in Animation. The successful candidate will teach a wide range of courses related to 2D and 3D animation, bringing extensive industry experience and deep expertise in animation production workflows.
As an entrepreneurial, market-driven institution, Champlain's academic programs respond to industry dynamics. The College particularly values industry and practical experience for its faculty. We are seeking a collaborative faculty member capable of teaching introductory to advanced animation courses while contributing to interdisciplinary partnerships across other majors.
Faculty members develop industry connections, mentor students, and contribute to Champlain College's creative community through service activities supporting the program and the College's mission. Central to this role is a genuine commitment to fostering a thriving animation community, one where students of all backgrounds feel welcome, supported, and inspired to grow alongside one another..
Key Responsibilities
Teaching & Curriculum Development
  • Deliver four courses per semester across the animation pipeline, from foundational principles through advanced performance and experimental techniques
  • Develop and refine rigorous, industry-informed curriculum covering areas such as 2D and 3D Animation fundamentals, 2D & 3D Character Animation and Performance, 2D & 3D Body Mechanics, Concept Art, VFX and real time Animation, Experimental and Stop Motion Animation, Figure Drawing, Cinematography, and Advanced Seminars
  • Apply a strong command of visual storytelling and cinematography to help students understand not just how to animate, but how to direct the eye, build tension, and tell a story through composition, camera, and movement
  • Integrate contemporary techniques, hybrid workflows, and emerging technologies into course content
  • Design hands-on learning experiences that translate theory into professional practice

Student Mentorship & Development
  • Actively nurture an inclusive animation community within the program, fostering a culture where students of all backgrounds feel welcome, engaged, and supported, and where every animator has a voice, a place, and peers to grow alongside
  • Advise students and provide individualized mentorship in animation professional development and career guidance
  • Teach and advise students while creating a classroom environment where diverse learning styles are embraced, every student feels seen, and the space itself becomes a place of creative confidence and belonging
  • Supervise student teams and interdisciplinary animation projects
  • Help students navigate the transition from college to industry through portfolio development and professional practice

Professional Engagement & Service
  • Maintain active connections with the animation and visual effects industry, whether through freelance work, professional networks, festival involvement, or ongoing personal projects
  • Stay current with evolving industry trends, tools, and techniques, bringing a genuine eagerness to keep learning and carry that energy back into the classroom
  • Serve on college committees and collaborate with faculty across disciplines
  • Contribute to program assessment, recruitment, and outreach initiatives

Requirements
  • MFA in Animation, Computer Animation, or related field preferred; consideration given to candidates with a bachelor's degree plus significant animation/visual effects industry experience
  • Professional-level expertise in one or more of the following areas: 2D Animation, 3D Animation, 3D Modeling/Texturing/Lighting, Compositing, Visual Effects, Virtual Production, and Visual Storytelling
  • Proficiency in cinematography and visual compositing workflows
  • Comprehensive knowledge of animation and film production pipelines across all stages
  • Technical proficiency in relevant industry-standard tools such as Toon Boom Harmony, Autodesk Maya, Houdini, Blender, Adobe Creative Suite, Unreal Engine, ZBrush, Nuke, or similar platforms
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective student mentoring
  • College-level teaching experience preferred

Working Arrangements
  • Full-time, in-person position based at our main campus in Burlington, Vermont
  • Comfortable office environment with access to campus resources
  • Occasional evening or weekend commitments for special events or student activities
  • Participation in faculty meetings, professional development, and academic ceremonies

Compensation & Benefits
  • Annual Salary: $64,000 - $75,000
  • Comprehensive Benefits Package:
    • Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance with HSA and FSA options
    • Paid Time Off: 16 holidays, summer and school breaks, plus 2 weeks sick time and 2 days of personal leave
    • Retirement: 403(b) plan with 3% employer matching contribution
    • Education: Tuition benefits for employees and family members
    • Wellness: Gym discount and Wellness programs with up to $300 annual incentives
    • Welfare: Short-term and long-term disability coverage, plus life insurance
    • Other Perks: Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with counseling services, access to employee discounts and local/national benefit programs

Application Instructions
To apply, please follow the link below and submit the following application materials:
  • Resume/CV
  • Cover Letter addressing the desired qualifications and how your experiences contribute to the academic excellence and inclusive community at Champlain College
  • Statement of Teaching Philosophy
  • A link to your portfolio/demo reel
  • A portfolio of teaching and student work (if available)

Please use the Link field on the application to submit your portfolio/demo reel. Your Statement of Teaching Philosophy and any additional materials can be uploaded using the Other Documents section of the application.
The College seeks candidates who can enhance its mission through their work, life experiences, service, teaching, or research. Please include specific examples of how you would contribute to these efforts in your Cover Letter. We will consider applications on a rolling basis.
To streamline our hiring process and ensure fairness for all candidates, we manage all recruitment communications through our online application system. Please do not call regarding your application status. We'll reach out directly if we'd like to schedule an interview.
The successful completion of a criminal background check is required as a condition of employment.
Champlain College does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, place of birth, ancestry, religion, age, sexual orientation, sex, gender identity, veteran or military service status, HIV -positive status, qualified disability, or on the basis of any other status protected by law, and does not discriminate in the administration of its education and admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, employment practices or co-curricular and other College-administered programs. Champlain College will make reasonable accommodations for otherwise qualified students, applicants for admission or employment, or employees.
Champlain College is committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming community. We believe that bringing together individuals with different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences enriches education and strengthens our community. At Champlain, all members are valued as individuals and respected for their unique contributions.
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About Us
Founded in 1878, Champlain College is a small, private, not-for-profit college in Burlington, Vermont overlooking Lake Champlain and the Adirondack mountains. Its career-driven approach to higher education prepares students for professional life from their very first semester. For the fifth year in a row, Champlain was named a "Most Innovative School" in the North by U.S. News & World Report's "America's Best Colleges" 2020 regional rankings and ranked #9 on The Princeton Review's "2025 Top Schools for Game Design."

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