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Animation Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Triton College, IL

Program Assistant

River Grove, IL · On-site

$18.50/hr

Posting Details Posting Summary Posting Number S00391P Position Title Program Assistant Position ... Experience in animation, script development and use of digital/social media. * Excellent ...

powercon

VDC Engineer

Chicago, IL

$65K - $100K/yr

Create 4D Scheduling animations from construction schedules * Create models from captured laser scanned site point clouds * Assist in laser scanning of construction sites * Review 3D models for ...

powercon

VDC Engineer

Chicago, IL

$65K - $100K/yr

Create 4D Scheduling animations from construction schedules * Create models from captured laser scanned site point clouds * Assist in laser scanning of construction sites * Review 3D models for ...

Thinkingbox

Senior Motion Designer - The Heist

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$85K - $95K/yr

We bring together directors, designers, animators, editors, and technologists to create work that ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

Thinkingbox

Senior Motion Designer - The Heist

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$85K - $95K/yr

We bring together directors, designers, animators, editors, and technologists to create work that ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

Power Construction

VDC Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K - $100K/yr

Create 4D Scheduling animations from construction schedules * Create models from captured laser scanned site point clouds * Assist in laser scanning of construction sites * Review 3D models for ...

Thinkingbox

Art Director, Motion - The Heist

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$120K - $150K/yr

We bring together directors, designers, animators, editors, and technologists to create work that ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

Thinkingbox

Art Director, Motion - The Heist

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$120K - $150K/yr

We bring together directors, designers, animators, editors, and technologists to create work that ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

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All JobsAnimation JobsAnimation Assistant JobsAnimation Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

Animation Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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$72

How much do animation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for animation assistant in Chicago, IL is $30.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.52 and $38.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are animators still in demand?

Animators are still in demand in industries such as film, television, gaming, and advertising, especially as digital media continues to grow. Skills in software like Adobe After Effects, Maya, or Blender, along with a strong portfolio, can improve job prospects in this competitive field.

What do assistant animators do?

Assistant animators support lead animators by preparing scenes, creating in-between frames, and maintaining animation files. They often use software like Adobe Animate or Toon Boom and may assist with background work or character rigging to ensure smooth production workflows.

How to get an animation job with no experience?

To get an animation assistant position with no experience, build a portfolio showcasing your basic skills using software like Adobe Animate or Toon Boom. Pursuing relevant courses or certifications can also demonstrate your commitment and help you develop foundational knowledge, increasing your chances of entry-level employment in the field.

How much do you get paid as a production assistant?

As an animation assistant or production assistant, the average pay ranges from $15 to $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the project. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants working on larger productions can earn higher wages, often with opportunities for overtime and benefits.

What are Animation Assistants?

Animation Assistants are professionals who support animators and animation teams in creating animated films, television shows, video games, and other multimedia projects. Their responsibilities often include cleaning up rough animations, preparing backgrounds, managing files, and assisting with in-between frames. Animation Assistants help ensure the animation process runs smoothly by handling various technical and organizational tasks. They are essential in maintaining the production schedule and supporting the creative vision of the lead animators.

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

To thrive as an Animation Assistant, you need a foundational understanding of animation principles, drawing skills, and a relevant degree or coursework in animation or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Toon Boom, or Autodesk Maya is typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively with the animation team are critical soft skills for this role. These capabilities ensure the smooth execution of animation projects, support the creative process, and help deliver high-quality visual content on schedule.

What is the difference between Animation Assistant vs Graphic Designer?

AspectAnimation AssistantGraphic Designer
Required SkillsBasic animation software, understanding of animation principlesDesign software, visual communication skills
Work EnvironmentAnimation studios, media companiesAdvertising agencies, print and digital media
Typical TasksAssist in creating animations, support senior animatorsDesign logos, layouts, visual branding
CredentialsDiploma or certificate in animation or related fieldDegree in graphic design or visual arts

While both roles involve visual creativity, an Animation Assistant primarily supports animation projects with technical skills in animation software, whereas a Graphic Designer focuses on visual branding and static designs. The roles often overlap in creative environments, but their core responsibilities and skill sets differ.

What are the most common challenges Animation Assistants face when working on fast-paced productions?

Animation Assistants often work under tight deadlines, which can make time management and maintaining high-quality work challenging. They may need to quickly adapt to changing project requirements or feedback from senior animators and directors. Staying organized while juggling multiple tasks, such as cleaning up animation frames and preparing assets for the animation pipeline, is crucial. Collaborating closely with other team members also requires strong communication skills to ensure consistency and meet production goals.
What are the most commonly searched types of Animation jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Animation jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Animation Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL? For Animation Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animation Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Animation Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Animation Assistant jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Animation Assistant job openings:
Animation Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animation Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% As Needed, 39% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 66% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 31% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,437 per year, or $30.5 per hour.

Program Assistant

Triton College, IL

River Grove, IL • On-site

$18.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Posting Summary
Posting Number
S00391P
Position Title
Program Assistant
Position Type
Hourly
Department
Finance
Essential Function
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Collaborate with the Director in the development and production of new or special audio-visual content for the Cernan Earth and Space Center.
  • Assist with general monitoring of planetarium equipment and troubleshooting.
  • Deliver programs in the Cernan Earth and Space Center to visitors and groups as needed.
  • Assist with special events such as star parties, center-wide events, member parties, and facility rentals.
  • Other duties as deemed necessary by program need and/or management.

Qualifications
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in Visual Communications or related field.
  • Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite (After Effects, Photoshop, Illustrator, Audition, Premiere Pro primarily) as well as 3D modeling and rendering software.
  • Experience in animation, script development and use of digital/social media.
  • Excellent interpersonal, communication and presentation skills.
  • Professional appearance and demeanor.
  • Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:
  • Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite (After Effects, Photoshop, Illustrator, Audition, Premiere Pro primarily) as well as 3D modeling and rendering software.
  • Detail oriented; excellent planning, problem solving and organizational skills.
  • Ability to work on multiple projects and meet deadlines.
  • Proficient in MS Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access).

Responsibilities
RESPONSIBILITIES:
The Planetarium Producer / Programmer is primarily responsible for the production of all types of audio-visual content for the Cernan Earth and Space Center utilizing audio and video production techniques and programming of planetarium systems. Production and programming projects will be used in programs (including for sale or lease to other venues), exhibits, publications, websites, and other distribution methods. This position also assists with general monitoring of planetarium equipment and troubleshooting.
Posting Date
10/14/2024
Closing Date
Special Instructions to Applicants
  • Rate of pay of $18.50 per hour; maximum 28 hours per week.
  • Official transcripts required prior to employment (if applicable).
  • Recommended hire will be subject to pre-employment screenings.
  • Triton College is an AA/EOE.

Quicklink for Posting
https://jobopenings.triton.edu/postings/1850

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