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Animation Developer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Triton College, IL

Program Assistant

River Grove, IL · On-site

$18.50/hr

Experience in animation, script development and use of digital/social media. * Excellent ... The Planetarium Producer / Programmer is primarily responsible for the production of all types of ...

Triton College, IL

Program Assistant

River Grove, IL · On-site

$18.50/hr

Experience in animation, script development and use of digital/social media. * Excellent ... The Planetarium Producer / Programmer is primarily responsible for the production of all types of ...

DePaul

Adjunct Faculty in Game Programming

Chicago, IL · On-site

Students learn about software engineering, computer graphics, artificial intelligence, animation, software architecture and networking. The game programing degree addresses the real-world needs of ...

EXP

Senior Video + Multimedia Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

As a team of engineers, architects, designers, scientists, creators and a community of ... Interviews, short-form and social video series, motion graphics, animations and GIFs, event and ...

exp

Senior Video + Multimedia Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

As a team of engineers, architects, designers, scientists, creators and a community of ... Interviews, short-form and social video series, motion graphics, animations and GIFs, event and ...

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All JobsAnimation Developer JobsAnimation Developer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Animation Developer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$36

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$77

How much do animation developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for animation developer in Chicago, IL is $60.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54.23 and $66.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Animation Developer vs Motion Designer?

AspectAnimation DeveloperMotion Designer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Graphics, Animation, or related field; knowledge of programming languagesBachelor's in Graphic Design, Animation, or related field; strong design portfolio
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in tech companies, gaming, or software development; focus on interactive animationsAdvertising agencies, media, or entertainment; focus on visual storytelling and branding
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in software, gaming, and interactive media industriesCommon in advertising, film, and digital media industries

Animation Developers focus on creating interactive and programmatic animations often for digital platforms, requiring coding skills. Motion Designers primarily craft visual animations for branding, advertising, and media, emphasizing design and storytelling. While both roles involve animation, their tools, environments, and objectives differ significantly.

What are some common challenges Animation Developers face when working on cross-functional teams?

Animation Developers often collaborate closely with designers, programmers, and project managers, which can present challenges in aligning creative vision with technical constraints. Effective communication is key, as developers must interpret design briefs into functional animations while ensuring performance and compatibility across platforms. Balancing the artistic aspects of animation with optimization for different devices and game engines is also a frequent challenge. Staying adaptable and fostering open dialogue within the team can help address these issues and lead to successful project outcomes.

How much do Disney animators get paid?

Disney animators' salaries vary based on experience and role, but entry-level animators typically earn around $60,000 to $80,000 annually, while more experienced or senior animators can earn over $100,000. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans, and proficiency in industry-standard tools like Maya or Toon Boom is common.

Is there a high demand for animators?

The demand for animation developers is strong across industries such as entertainment, gaming, and advertising, driven by increasing digital content creation. Skills in software like Adobe After Effects, Maya, or Blender, along with a strong portfolio, can enhance job prospects as companies seek skilled animators to produce engaging visual content.

What is the highest paid animation job?

The highest paid animation jobs are typically senior roles such as Lead Animator, Animation Director, or VFX Supervisor, especially in film, television, or gaming industries. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced skills in software like Maya or Houdini, and leadership responsibilities, with salaries reaching six figures or more depending on the project and location.

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

To thrive as an Animation Developer, you need a strong grasp of animation principles, computer graphics, and programming languages like JavaScript or C++, often backed by a degree in computer science, digital media, or a related field. Proficiency with animation software such as Adobe Animate, Unity, Blender, or Maya, and familiarity with relevant APIs or frameworks, is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills that help bring concepts to life and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills enable the creation of engaging, technically sound animations that meet project goals and user expectations.

What does an Animation Developer do?

An Animation Developer is responsible for creating and integrating animations into digital products like video games, apps, websites, and interactive media. They combine artistic skills with technical knowledge, using tools such as Unity, Unreal Engine, or Adobe Animate to bring characters and environments to life. Animation Developers also collaborate with designers, programmers, and artists to ensure smooth, visually appealing animations that enhance user experiences. Their work often involves coding, testing, and troubleshooting animations to achieve the desired effects.

Does Disney still hire 2D animators?

Disney Animation Studios has largely shifted focus from traditional 2D animation to 3D computer-generated imagery, but they occasionally hire 2D animators for specific projects or legacy work. Opportunities for 2D animation roles are limited and often require strong skills in traditional techniques and relevant software like Toon Boom or Adobe Animate.
What are popular job titles related to Animation Developer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Animation Developer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animation Developer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Animation Developer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Animation Developer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Animation Developer job openings:
Animation Developer jobs near you

Program Assistant

Triton College, IL

River Grove, IL • On-site

$18.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 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

Apply