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Animation Runner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Manager, Animation

Bristol, CT · On-site

$126K - $170K/yr

The Manager, Animation helps lead the ESPN Creative Studio Animation/Animation FX team and their ... Daily assessment of workloads and priorities to keep projects running smoothly * Easily pivot ...

Manager, Animation Req ID: 10150084 The Manager, Animation helps lead the ESPN Creative Studio ... Daily assessment of workloads and priorities to keep projects running smoothly * Easily pivot ...

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Animation Runner information

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How much do animation runner jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for animation runner in the United States is $13.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.58 and $16.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Animation Runner, you need excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of animation production processes, with a high school diploma or equivalent often required. Familiarity with production tracking software, office tools, and studio communication systems is highly beneficial. Strong interpersonal skills, adaptability, and a proactive attitude help Animation Runners stand out in supporting fast-paced creative teams. These abilities ensure smooth workflow, timely delivery of tasks, and effective support for animators and production staff.

What does an Animation Runner do?

An Animation Runner is responsible for assisting the production team in an animation studio by handling administrative tasks, coordinating schedules, and ensuring smooth workflow between departments. They support animators, directors, and producers by delivering assets, organizing meetings, and sometimes managing file distribution. This role is crucial for keeping animation projects on track and meeting deadlines.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an Animation Runner?

Animation Runners are responsible for a variety of support tasks throughout the studio, such as delivering materials between departments, assisting with setup for meetings, and handling administrative duties to keep the production moving smoothly. They often act as the point of contact for coordinating requests from different teams, ensuring everyone's needs are met promptly. Runners may also help organize assets, update tracking systems, and perform errands both within and outside the studio. This role is a great way to gain firsthand experience in a professional animation environment and observe the key stages of animation production.

More about Animation Runner jobs
What cities are hiring for Animation Runner jobs? Cities with the most Animation Runner job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Animation Runner jobs? The most popular types of Animation Runner jobs are:
What states have the most Animation Runner jobs? States with the most job openings for Animation Runner jobs include:
Infographic showing various Animation Runner job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 65% In-person, 14% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $28,409 per year, or $13.7 per hour.
Manager, Animation

Manager, Animation

ESPN

Bristol, CT • On-site

$126K - $170K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


ESPN rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 65 rated media


Job description

The Manager, Animation helps lead the ESPN Creative Studio Animation/Animation FX team and their workflows. They are responsible for balancing creative and production priorities with efficiency, staff development, and long-term strategic planning. The Manager oversees animation staff, technology resources, schedules, and team performance. They have a comprehensive understanding of animation team software, hardware, workflows, along with knowledge of individual staff skillsets and development areas. They are proactive problem-solvers with an eye on emerging production trends to anticipate future animation needs. They help create an innovative, collaborative, and creatively positive environment for the entire team. They engage and align with internal leaders on workflows to deliver against company priorities and key business goals.

Responsibilities:

  • Daily leadership, planning, monitoring, and support of all staff and assignments
  • Daily assessment of workloads and priorities to keep projects running smoothly
  • Easily pivot attention to where needed & readily open to diverse ideas and discussion
  • Direct management, mentoring and coaching of supervisor- and staff-level personnel
  • Develop and align team workflows and strategies with ESPN Creative Studio priorities
  • Assess staff capabilities & proactively plan against known and anticipated project needs
  • Foster a team environment that encourages innovation, creativity, and skills growth
  • Identify and drive resolutions to technical, operational, and organizational challenges
  • Collaborate with IT partners to guide enhancements to team software and hardware
  • Engage with ECS leaders and outside vendors to influence and align on workflows

Basic Qualifications:

  • Minimum 10 years of experience in animation, design, tv production
  • Strong understanding of industry-standard animation software and workflows
  • Detail-oriented with the ability to manage priorities and meet tight deadlines
  • Confident problem solver; able to think quickly in pressure situations
  • Technical curiosity; keen to generate and explore new ideas
  • Excellent organizational, communication, presentation, and group dynamic skills
  • Excellent coaching and motivational skills

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Proven experience supervising in-person and remote creative teams
  • Proven experience working with DEET/IT and outside vendors
  • Strong knowledge of ESPN studio and event animation packages
  • Strong technical troubleshooting abilities
  • Deadline Render Manager experience
  • Microsoft 365 application experience

Required Education:

  • High School Diploma or Equivalent

Preferred Education:

  • Degree in Animation, VFX, Graphic Design, TV/Film Production, or related field

#ESPNMedia

The hiring range for this position in Bristol, CT is $126,800.00 to $170,000.00 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.

Job ID: 10150084

Location: Bristol,Connecticut

Job Posting Company: ESPN

ESPN Productions, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status.


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