ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Animation Background Artist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Steamroller Animation

NY · On-site

$80 - $120/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 ...

MARKETSCALE LLC

3D Artist

Dallas, TX · On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

Our 3D Artists create 3D product animation for incredible brands. As a 3D Artist at MarketScale we ... The ideal candidate has a background in 3D video production and can import 3D CAD files into Maya ...

MARKETSCALE LLC

3D Artist

Dallas, TX · On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

Our 3D Artists create 3D product animation for incredible brands. As a 3D Artist at MarketScale we ... The ideal candidate has a background in 3D video production and can import 3D CAD files into Maya ...

LA 411

Storyboard/Design Artist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100 - $135/hr

The Comedy Central animated TV series, "South Park," is looking for a passionate, artistic, and ... also Background Design, Character Design, Cinematic Design, and various other mixed animation art ...

Arrow International Inc

Senior Artist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80 - $120K/hr

The Senior Artist will use their artistic expertise with color, composition, shape, typography ... Gaming or casino-related knowledge or background. * Knowledge of animation principles. Usage of ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsArts and Entertainment JobsEntertainment Production JobsMultimedia Designer JobsAnimation Background Artist Jobs

Animation Background Artist information

See salary details

$5

$29

$37

How much do animation background artist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for animation background 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 background artist do?

An Animation Background Artist creates the environments and settings for animated scenes, establishing the mood, atmosphere, and style of a project. They design and paint backgrounds that complement character animation while maintaining visual consistency. These artists work closely with directors and designers to match the aesthetic vision of the production. Their work can be done traditionally or digitally, often using software like Photoshop, Blender, or Procreate.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animation background artist?

To thrive as an Animation Background Artist, you need strong skills in drawing, painting, color theory, and spatial design, typically supported by a degree in art, animation, or a related field. Mastery of industry-standard software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and often 3D programs such as Blender is highly valued, alongside a robust digital portfolio. Creativity, collaboration, adaptability, and attention to detail help artists excel in the fast-paced animation pipeline. These skills ensure that backgrounds effectively support the story, maintain visual consistency, and enhance the overall quality of the animated production.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an animation background artist?

An Animation Background Artist typically spends their day creating detailed and stylistically appropriate environments that serve as the settings for animated sequences. This involves collaborating closely with art directors, layout artists, and character designers to ensure visual continuity and meet the production's artistic vision. Tasks often include sketching environment concepts, refining digital paintings, adjusting layouts based on feedback, and delivering finished backgrounds on schedule. Artists also attend regular team meetings to discuss progress and integrate changes requested by the animation or production teams.

More about Animation Background Artist jobs

What cities are hiring for Animation Background Artist jobs?

Cities with the most Animation Background Artist job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Animation Background Artist jobs?

The most popular types of Animation Background Artist jobs are:

What states have the most Animation Background Artist jobs?

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

What job categories do people searching Animation Background Artist jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Animation Background Artist jobs are:

Animation Background Artist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animation Background Artist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,546 per year, or $29.1 per hour.

Freelance Background Artist for YouTube Studio

Newscape Studios

Austin, TX • Remote

Contractor

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Summary

Newscape Studios, Inc has a dozen YouTube channels, with over 10 million total subscribers. We create content based on popular video games such as Fortnite, Minecraft, and original animations. Newscape also produces a vast array of videos for a young audience and content through animation and machinima.

We are looking to add Freelance 2D Background artists to our team to work on our animation. Candidates must have substantial knowledge using Adobe Creative Suite, particularly Photoshop. Toon Boom knowledge is a plus but not required.

Animation channels to match style of:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCToxKVrkEuAONR4rFIJ_DyQ

Responsibilities and Duties:

  • Keep an organized and efficient workflow
  • Fully finalize environments and background props for full use in production
  • Meet daily quotas during the production week 
  • Responsible for approximately 25 environments per week.
  • Complete revisions by deadline given by management
  • Depending on skill and experience some duties and responsibilities may differ

Qualifications and Skills:

  • Proficiency in Adobe Photoshop, Procreate
  • Illustrator/Background artists must be able to adapt to a variety of styles
  • Strong understanding of composition, perspective, color theory, light and form is a must
  • Must be able to work as part of a team
  • Communicates effectively
  • Great listening skills
  • Great time management skills
  • Comfortable in meeting deadlines and daily quotas
  • Strong attention to detail and consistency 

Competitive pay: $800.00 per production week

Portfolio is required to be considered. 

This is a remote/ work from home, Independent Contractor Position. 

Artists with LLCs are preferred but not required.
If you receive an email from Newscapeprocareers.com this is a scam. Newscape Studios will not email questionnaires, ask for any personal information such as SS #, address, or bank account information or present a  job offer without a face to face interview with our supervisors and/or Human Resources.  If you receive an email from newscapeprocareers.com, please report to the authorities.  Be careful of scams. 

Powered by JazzHR

qYiJTrG9E8