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Animation Professor Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Animation Professor information

See Illinois salary details

$56.2K

$111.2K

$183.1K

How much do animation professor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for animation professor in Illinois is $111,236.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,600.00 and $117,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an animation professor do?

An Animation Professor teaches students the principles and techniques of animation, including 2D, 3D, stop-motion, and digital animation. They design curriculum, deliver lectures, guide projects, and provide mentorship to help students develop technical and creative skills. Additionally, they often conduct research, collaborate with industry professionals, and stay updated with emerging animation technologies and trends.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the animation professor position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animation Professor, you need advanced expertise in animation principles, digital art, and storytelling, typically supported by a master's degree or higher in animation or a related field, along with teaching experience. Proficiency with industry-standard animation software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Maya, Blender, or Toon Boom, and possibly certification in these tools, is commonly required. Strong communication, mentorship abilities, and a passion for fostering creativity help educators connect with and inspire students. These skills are essential for preparing students for industry demands and maintaining an engaging, effective learning environment.

What are some typical responsibilities of an animation professor throughout the academic term?

Animation Professors are responsible for designing and delivering course content, leading classroom instruction, and evaluating student progress through projects, critiques, and exams. They often mentor students on portfolio development, oversee capstone projects or collaborative productions, and stay current with evolving animation technologies. Professors may also participate in departmental meetings, contribute to curriculum development, and work closely with industry professionals or alumni to facilitate internships and networking opportunities. Balancing teaching, advising, and creative research makes this role both dynamic and rewarding.

What are the most commonly searched types of Animation Professor jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Animation Professor jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Animation Professor jobs in Illinois?

For Animation Professor jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Animation Professor job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 40% Part Time, and 20% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $111,236 per year, or $53.5 per hour.

Adjunct Faculty in Television Production

DePaul University

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


DePaul University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

385th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Description
DePaul's Jarvis College of Computing & Digital Media (CDM) is located in the heart of Chicago's Loop, the central business district of Chicago. Our students represent many different experiences, perspectives, and cultures, and the university strives to recruit and sustain a faculty community where all backgrounds are valued and supported. Part-time teaching positions are available throughout the academic year, including summer sessions. Academic course schedules fluctuate from quarter to quarter, and the college will work with selected individuals to determine a quarterly schedule. Courses are not guaranteed, however the college does its best to give ample notice about available courses. Applicants with expertise that matches course scheduling needs will be contacted for an interview.
The School of Cinematic Arts (SCA) offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs incluuding Film and Television, Animation, Creative Producing, Documentary, and Screenwriting on the Loop campus and at DePaul Cinespace Studios. Find out more about SCA at https://www.cdm.depaul.edu/academics/Pages/School-of-Cinematic-Arts.aspx.
Qualifications
Minimum requirements include a master's degree in the discipline, or 18 semester/27 quarter hours of graduate work in the discipline, or an undergraduate degree with a minimum of five years demonstrated relevant professional experience. Exceptions may be considered with approval of the dean.
MFA degree in television plus professional, produced credits, or significant festival screenings and/or television contest successes are preferred.
Application Instructions
This post applies to
  • Entertainment Television Production
  • Entertainment Television Directing
  • Entertainment Television Editing
  • Web series production

Considerations:
Exceptions to standard rates may apply to courses with unique credit hours, supervision, labs, clinical/practicum courses, coaching, administrative tasks, and courses that are either over-enrolled or under-enrolled.
General Compensation/Benefits Statement:
DePaul University has provided a compensation range that represents its good faith estimate of what the University may pay for the position at the time of posting. The salary offered to the selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the qualifications, education, experience, and training of the selected candidate, the scope and responsibilities of the position, departmental budget availability, internal salary equity considerations, and available market information.
DePaul University offers a variety of benefit options for qualified part-time employees. Further information regarding benefits can be found here: https://offices.depaul.edu/human-resources/benefits/part-time/Pages/default.aspx
About DePaul University's Academic Calendar:
Except for the College of Law, DePaul University operates on a quarter system. Classes in Autumn, Winter, and Spring quarters are 11 weeks in length (including finals week) and Summer courses, in two sessions, are typically 5 weeks in length. The College of Law operates on the semester system. Classes in the Fall and Spring semesters are 16 weeks in length (including finals week) and it offers a Summer Session of 7 weeks (including final exams).

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