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Animator Pay Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hearst

Senior Social Editor & Animator

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$88K - $94K/yr

From AI-enhanced storytelling to scroll-stopping animations, this role is at the cutting edge of ... The actual base pay offered is dependent upon many factors, such as: transferable skills, work ...

Hearst

Senior Social Editor & Animator

Manhattan, NY · Hybrid

$88K - $94K/yr

From AI-enhanced storytelling to scroll-stopping animations, this role is at the cutting edge of ... The actual base pay offered is dependent upon many factors, such as: transferable skills, work ...

Hearst

Senior Social Editor & Animator

New York, NY · Hybrid

$88K - $94K/yr

From AI-enhanced storytelling to scroll-stopping animations, this role is at the cutting edge of ... The actual base pay offered is dependent upon many factors, such as: transferable skills, work ...

Hearst

Senior Social Editor & Animator

New York, NY · Hybrid

$88K - $94K/yr

From AI-enhanced storytelling to scroll-stopping animations, this role is at the cutting edge of ... The actual base pay offered is dependent upon many factors, such as: transferable skills, work ...

Hearst

Senior Social Editor & Animator

Manhattan, NY · Hybrid

$88K - $94K/yr

From AI-enhanced storytelling to scroll-stopping animations, this role is at the cutting edge of ... The actual base pay offered is dependent upon many factors, such as: transferable skills, work ...

Aquent

Sr. UI Animator / Motion Designer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$81 - $91/hr

Pay Comments: W2, weekly pay, benefits, 401k w/ match * Background screening required Key ... Description As a UI Animator/Motion Designer on our team, you will: * Design and animate UI motion ...

L3HHCM20

Senior Specialist, Creative Services

Rochester, NY · On-site +1

$84K - $156K/yr

Familiarity working from computer-aided design (CAD) data or engineering models as source material for animation. In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in ...

L3HHCM20

Senior Specialist, Creative Services

Melbourne, FL · On-site +1

$84K - $156K/yr

Familiarity working from computer-aided design (CAD) data or engineering models as source material for animation. In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in ...

Epic Games

Character Animation Lead

Cary, NC · On-site

You will combine strong animation fundamentals with technical fluency in Unreal Engine to build ... We pay 100% of the premiums for both you and your dependents. Our coverage includes Medical, Dental ...

Epic Games

Animation Systems Programmer

Larkspur, CA · On-site

$167K - $245K/yr

What You'll Do Epic Games is looking for an experienced Animation Systems Programmer for our ... We pay 100% of the premiums for both you and your dependents. Our coverage includes Medical, Dental ...

Epic Games

Technical Designer in Animation

Cary, NC · On-site

Build animation behavior tools, techniques, and frameworks that enable complex systems and ... We pay 100% of the premiums for both you and your dependents. Our coverage includes Medical, Dental ...

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Animator Pay information

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$10

$39

$70

How much do animator pay jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for animator pay in the United States is $39.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.88 and $63.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do animators pay?

Animator salaries vary based on experience, location, and industry, but the median annual pay in many regions ranges from $50,000 to $80,000. Entry-level animators typically earn less, while those with specialized skills in software like Maya or Adobe After Effects and a strong portfolio can earn higher wages.

Does Disney still hire 2D animators?

Disney continues to hire 2D animators, especially for projects that require traditional hand-drawn animation or a nostalgic aesthetic. While the industry has shifted toward digital 3D animation, there is still demand for skilled 2D animators in certain productions and specialized roles.

How much do animators typically get paid?

Animator pay can vary widely depending on factors such as experience, location, industry, and the type of animation work. In the United States, the median annual salary for animators and multimedia artists is around $78,790 as of 2022, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Entry-level animators may earn less, while experienced or specialized animators working in film, television, or video games can earn significantly more. Freelance rates also vary, often depending on the complexity of the project and the animator's portfolio.

What is the difference between Animator Pay vs Video Editor Pay?

AspectAnimator PayVideo Editor Pay
Required CredentialsAnimation degree or related certificationVideo production or editing certification
Work EnvironmentAnimation studios, media companies, freelanceMedia companies, production houses, freelance
Industry UsageUsed in entertainment, advertising, gamingUsed in film, TV, online content
Common Search IntentComparing salaries and pay ratesComparing salaries and pay rates

Animator Pay and Video Editor Pay are both creative roles in media industries, often requiring similar certifications and working in related environments. While animator salaries tend to be higher due to specialized skills in character and motion design, video editors focus on assembling footage and editing content. Understanding these differences helps job seekers and employers set appropriate compensation expectations based on role-specific skills and industry standards.

What are some common challenges animators face when negotiating their pay or salary?

Animators often encounter challenges such as pay discrepancies based on project budgets, studio size, and location. Freelance animators may find it difficult to set competitive rates, especially when balancing client expectations with fair compensation for their skills and experience. Additionally, animators working in-house might struggle with salary transparency and advancement opportunities, as pay scales can vary widely across the industry. Researching industry standards and networking with peers can help animators better advocate for fair pay during negotiations.

What is the highest paid animator?

The highest paid animators are often senior or lead professionals working in film, television, or video game industries, with top earners making over $150,000 annually. Experienced animators with specialized skills in 3D modeling, character design, or visual effects tend to earn the highest salaries, especially when working on major projects or for large studios.

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

To thrive as an Animator, you need strong artistic ability, a solid understanding of animation principles, and typically a degree in animation, graphic design, or a related field. Proficiency in industry-standard animation software such as Adobe After Effects, Autodesk Maya, or Toon Boom Harmony is commonly required. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial for producing visually engaging animations that meet client or project specifications while collaborating efficiently within creative teams.

Is animator a high paying job?

Animator pay varies based on experience, location, and industry, but generally, it is considered a mid-range salary job. Entry-level animators often earn less, while experienced professionals working in film, gaming, or advertising can earn higher wages, especially with specialized skills and advanced software knowledge.
More about Animator Pay jobs
What cities are hiring for Animator Pay jobs? Cities with the most Animator Pay job openings:
What states have the most Animator Pay jobs? States with the most job openings for Animator Pay jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Animator Pay jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Animator Pay jobs are:
Animator Pay jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animator Pay job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 17% Locum Tenens, 60% As Needed, 22% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 71% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,974 per year, or $39.4 per hour.

Senior Social Editor & Animator

Hearst Newspapers

New York, NY • Hybrid

$88K - $94K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Be Part of What's Next 

Are you obsessed with the intersection of creativity, motion design, and what's trending on TikTok? We're looking for a Senior Social Editor & Animator to help shape the future of how branded stories live and thrive across social platforms. From AI-enhanced storytelling to scroll-stopping animations, this role is at the cutting edge of editorial creativity and performance.

About Hearst Magazines (Why Us?)

Hearst Magazines' portfolio of more than 30 iconic brands in the U.S.-including Cosmopolitan, ELLE, Esquire, Good Housekeeping, Harper's BAZAAR, and Popular Mechanics - inspires, entertains, and builds new and bold experiences for an engaged and growing audience across digital, video, social and print, reaching nearly 130 million readers and site visitors each month. With sophisticated content creation, cutting-edge technology, and industry-leading data capabilities, we make media and products that move people across all platforms. We are a global media company that publishes nearly 200 magazine editions and 175 websites around the world-and together, we are shaping what's next.

Key Responsibilities (What You're Doing)

  • Edit and design social-first branded content including Reels, Stories, Shorts, interactive assets, and vertical video variations.
  • Transform single content pieces into optimized assets for TikTok, Instagram, YouTube Shorts, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and more.
  • Animate graphics with impact using kinetic typography, motion overlays, and dynamic treatments tailored to platform trends.
  • Convert still images into engaging motion content through AI tools, motion design, and inventive storytelling.
  • Repurpose long-form video into short-form, snackable content that performs across social channels.
  • Collaborate with producers, directors, and creatives to develop fresh visual narratives aligned with brand and client goals.
  • Experiment with stop-motion, mixed media, lo-fi effects, and emerging formats to keep content cutting-edge.
  • Integrate AI tools like Runway to enhance workflows and elevate creative output.
  • Deliver high-quality, polished assets under tight deadlines while maintaining creative excellence.

Qualifications (What We're Looking For)

  • 3-5 years of social-first editing and animation experience in a brand studio, publisher, agency, or digital-first content environment.
  • Strong skills in Adobe Creative Suite (Premiere Pro, After Effects, Photoshop, Illustrator).
  • Proficiency with emerging creator-native tools such as CapCut, Edits, DaVinci Resolve, and Canva Pro.
  • Experience using AI-enhanced creative tools (e.g., RunwayML).
  • Bonus if familiar with 3D or advanced motion graphics platforms like Blender or Cinema4D.
  • Portfolio showcasing optimized content for TikTok, Instagram, YouTube Shorts, and platform-native design styles.
  • Demonstrated expertise in transforming still images into motion content using design and AI tools.
  • Strong collaborator, highly adaptable, and able to juggle multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
  • Based in NYC with a hybrid in-office schedule (4 days/week).

What We Offer

  • Work with the Best: Collaborate with top-tier professionals across media, advertising, tech, fashion, lifestyle, and publishing, shaping the future of these dynamic industries.
  • Grow Your Skills: Unlock your potential with access to innovative training programs, immersive workshops, and exclusive industry events.
  • Work-Life Harmony: Enjoy the flexibility of hybrid work, empowering you to balance professional success with personal priorities.
  • Foster Connection & Belonging: Join our Employee Resource Groups and help create a welcoming workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered.
  • Wellness First: Prioritize your well-being with a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance from Day 1.
  • Plan for Your Financial Future: Enjoy competitive financial perks, including a 401(k) plan with a generous company match.

The base salary for this role is between $88,000 - $94,000. The actual base pay offered is dependent upon many factors, such as: transferable skills, work experience, business needs and market demands. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future.

Hearst is 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, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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