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Animation Intern Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Animation Intern information

See Portland, OR salary details

$9

$18

$25

How much do animation intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for animation intern in Portland, OR is $18.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $20.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects and tasks can an Animation Intern expect to work on during their internship?

As an Animation Intern, you can expect to assist with a variety of tasks such as creating storyboards, developing character animations, preparing assets for animators, and supporting the production pipeline. Interns often collaborate closely with senior animators, designers, and other team members to support ongoing projects and may be given the opportunity to contribute creative ideas. The work environment is typically fast-paced and team-oriented, with regular feedback sessions that help interns build their technical skills and professional network. This hands-on experience provides valuable exposure to industry-standard software and practices, setting a strong foundation for a future career in animation.

What does an Animation Intern do?

An Animation Intern assists professional animators in creating visual content for films, television, games, or digital media. Their tasks often include storyboarding, creating character illustrations, working with animation software, and supporting various stages of the animation pipeline. Interns may also help with editing, preparing assets, and collaborating with other departments. This role provides hands-on experience and helps interns learn industry-standard tools and workflows.

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

To thrive as an Animation Intern, you need a solid understanding of animation principles, basic drawing or design skills, and coursework or a degree in animation, graphic design, or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Toon Boom, or Autodesk Maya is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to take constructive feedback are crucial soft skills for excelling in this position. These skills and qualities are vital for producing high-quality animations, collaborating with team members, and adapting to the fast-paced demands of creative projects.

What is the difference between Animation Intern vs Animation Assistant?

AspectAnimation InternAnimation Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically enrolled in or recent graduate of animation or related programsOften has some professional experience or relevant coursework
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, learning-focused, often in studio or production settingSupportive role, assisting senior animators in studio or production teams
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in animation studios, media companies, and production housesUsed in similar environments, often as a stepping stone to full animator roles
Search & Comparison IntentPeople exploring entry-level animation roles or internshipsIndividuals seeking support roles or entry-level positions in animation

In summary, an Animation Intern is typically a student or recent graduate gaining initial experience, while an Animation Assistant usually has some prior experience and supports the animation team in production tasks. Both roles are entry-level but differ in experience and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Animation jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Animation jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Animation Intern jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Animation Intern job openings:
Infographic showing various Animation Intern job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Internship, 5% As Needed, 60% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 69% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 28% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,580 per year, or $18.1 per hour.
Science Illustration Intern

Science Illustration Intern

The Xerces Society

Portland, OR • On-site

$24/hr

Part-time, Internship

PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Description:

JOB TITLE: Science Illustration Intern


LOCATION: Remote position within the United States. Candidates must have a personal office location suitable for work purposes, with broadband internet access, and must work from a city/state location approved by Xerces as their assigned work location.


COMPENSATION: $24 per hour


STATUS & SCHEDULE: Part time, approximately 20 hours/week.


DURATION: September – December 2026, flexible based upon student’s academic schedule


APPLICATION DEADLINE: July 31, 2026


APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

All applications must be submitted via our application website at: xerces.org/jobs

Xerces provides accommodations for the job application process if needed. If you need an accommodation to complete the job application process, please email reasonable.accomodation@xerces.org with your specific request.


JOIN US!

At Xerces, we harness the knowledge of scientists and the enthusiasm of the public to implement conservation programs. We take action by helping farms and public agencies develop conservation plans for pollinators and beneficial insects, producing ground-breaking publications on insect conservation, training thousands of farmers and land managers to protect and manage habitat for beneficial insects, protecting endangered species and their habitat, and engaging the public to raise awareness about invertebrates found on farms, forests, prairies, deserts, streams, wetlands, towns and cities. Our methods focus on habitat conservation planning, education, scientific analysis, advocacy, and applied research to conserve invertebrates, such as bees, butterflies, mollusks, and fireflies.


WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING:

As the Scientific Illustration Intern for the Xerces Society, you will build your portfolio and gain experience in science illustration by creating visual media that advances public understanding of invertebrates and advocacy for their conservation. This is a remote position at 20 hours per week from September through December. The intern will be a member of the communications team and work directly with many Xerces Society staff. The internship is made possible by the Maxwell/Hanrahan Foundation.


ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Produce scientific illustrations, animations, and/or data visualizations of invertebrates and the conservation issues impacting them. Projects will include developing print and digital media to illustrate invertebrate morphology, depict ecological interactions, and promote programs like the Xerces Society habitat kits.
  • Work with the communications team and conservation program staff to identify and produce visual storytelling opportunities for Xerces conservation initiatives.
  • Participate in relevant staff meetings and events.
  • Participate in Xerces Society program experiences, as available.
  • Present and exhibit final illustrations through a Xerces Society platform.
Requirements:

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND EXPERIENCE:

REQUIRED

  • Ability to portray natural subjects in a scientific manner in one or more mediums
  • Experience creating artwork from life and from photo references
  • Ability to meet deadlines and incorporate feedback
  • Ability to work independently and be self-motivated
  • Strong time, project management, and collaboration skills


PREFERRED

  • Ability to communicate scientific concepts through data visualization, and/or
  • Experience creating animated short videos


QUALIFICATIONS:

REQUIRED

  • Current undergraduate or graduate student in the Fall 2026 semester, pursuing a degree or certificate in scientific illustration, fine arts, graphic design, or similar related field of study.


PREFERRED

  • Interest in ecology, conservation, and science communication
  • Passion to develop skills in scientific illustration

BENEFITS: This position includes paid time off (PTO) accrued starting at a rate of 1.73 hours for every 30 hours of pay (15 days per year for a 40 hour/week schedule)


APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

Include a portfolio of 5-10 illustration samples that demonstrate skill and experience in scientific illustration of wildlife and natural subjects. 3-5 additional samples of data visualization or animation may be included, if applicable. Please upload one pdf of all samples. You may add links and brief narrative context as needed. Include a cover letter describing how you fulfill the qualifications listed above and how you hope the internship will enhance your professional development.

All applications must be submitted via our application website at: xerces.org/jobs


TERMS: The Xerces Society is an at-will employer. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.


MUTUAL ARBITRATION: Xerces policies require that employees accept a binding mutual arbitration agreement and process for dispute resolution as an alternative to a jury/trial process. Acceptance of the agreement is a condition of employment, and candidates are offered a position with a minimum of 72 hours to consider.


EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

The Xerces Society is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability.