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Assistant Motion Graphics Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Thinkingbox

Senior Motion Designer - The Heist

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$85K - $95K/yr

Design and animate compelling 2D and 3D motion graphics across a wide range of styles and platforms ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

Thinkingbox

Senior Motion Designer - The Heist

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$85K - $95K/yr

Design and animate compelling 2D and 3D motion graphics across a wide range of styles and platforms ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

The Huntington Resource

Be Seen First

Graphic Artist

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Prepare artwork for screen printing, including color separations and film output. * Assist with ... Digital content creation including animation, motion graphics, illustration, and 3D design.

New

Crain

Multimedia Designer

Chicago, IL

... * Assist with the development of reusable multimedia templates, motion graphics packages, storytelling frameworks, and workflow standards. * Contribute to a collaborative creative environment by ...

Crain

Multimedia Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

... * Assist with the development of reusable multimedia templates, motion graphics packages, storytelling frameworks, and workflow standards. * Contribute to a collaborative creative environment by ...

University of Utah

Graphic Designer

Campus, IL

This position will report to the Assistant A.D., Football Communications, while maintaining a ... Basic knowledge of motion graphics (After Effects or similar) * Photography and/or video editing ...

New

University of Utah

Graphic Designer

Campus, IL

This position will report to the Assistant A.D., Football Communications, while maintaining a ... Basic knowledge of motion graphics (After Effects or similar) * Photography and/or video editing ...

New

University of Utah

Graphic Designer

Campus, IL · On-site

This position will report to the Assistant A.D., Football Communications, while maintaining a ... Basic knowledge of motion graphics (After Effects or similar) * Photography and/or video editing ...

New

Glantz

Junior Graphic Designer

Evanston, IL · Hybrid

$19.50 - $26/hr

... motion graphics, and branding. About Glantz: Our working environment is collaborative and fast ... Support various projects under senior team guidance * Assist with designs using Adobe Creative ...

Thesalonhype

Graphic Designer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

... - Assist with the design and maintenance of the company website and other digital platforms ... motion graphics is a plus Benefits: - Competitive salary - Health, dental, and vision insurance ...

Glantz

Junior Graphic Designer

Evanston, IL · On-site +1

$19.50 - $26/hr

... motion graphics, and branding. About Glantz: Our working environment is collaborative and fast ... Support various projects under senior team guidance * Assist with designs using Adobe Creative ...

Thinkingbox

Art Director, Motion - The Heist

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$120K - $150K/yr

Oversee/guide and participate in the execution of 3D/2D motion graphics, ensuring quality and ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

Thinkingbox

Art Director, Motion - The Heist

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$120K - $150K/yr

Oversee/guide and participate in the execution of 3D/2D motion graphics, ensuring quality and ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

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All JobsMotion Graphics JobsAssistant Motion Graphics JobsAssistant Motion Graphics Jobs in Illinois

Assistant Motion Graphics information

Is it hard to get a job in motion graphics?

Securing a job as an assistant motion graphics artist can be competitive, often requiring a strong portfolio, proficiency in tools like Adobe After Effects and Cinema 4D, and relevant internships or experience. Building a solid skill set and networking can improve chances, but entry-level positions may still be accessible with the right qualifications.

What is the difference between Assistant Motion Graphics vs Motion Graphics Designer?

AspectAssistant Motion GraphicsMotion Graphics Designer
Required CredentialsTypically an associate degree or relevant certificationBachelor’s degree in graphic design, animation, or related field
Work EnvironmentSupportive team setting, assisting senior designersIndependent or team-based creative environment
Employer & Industry UsageAdvertising agencies, media companies, production studiosSame as Assistant Motion Graphics, often with more responsibility

Assistant Motion Graphics roles focus on supporting and learning, often requiring less experience and serving as a stepping stone. Motion Graphics Designers take on more complex projects, leading design work and making creative decisions. Both roles are common in media, advertising, and entertainment industries, but differ mainly in responsibility and experience level.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Motion Graphics Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Motion Graphics Designer, you need a solid grasp of design principles, animation techniques, and proficiency with industry-standard software like Adobe After Effects and Premiere Pro, often supported by a relevant degree or portfolio. Familiarity with tools such as Cinema 4D and Photoshop, as well as understanding of video formats and rendering processes, is typically expected. Creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment are standout soft skills for this role. These skills ensure high-quality visual content, smooth project workflows, and successful communication of ideas in fast-paced production settings.

What are Assistant Motion Graphics artists?

Assistant Motion Graphics artists support senior motion graphics designers by preparing assets, creating simple animations, and helping with project organization. They often work with video editing software and animation tools like Adobe After Effects or Cinema 4D to help bring visual concepts to life. Their responsibilities may include rendering files, organizing project folders, and revising animations based on feedback. This entry-level role is ideal for those looking to gain experience in the motion graphics field and develop their technical and creative skills.

Will motion graphics be replaced by AI?

Motion graphics artists create visual content using design and animation skills, and AI tools can assist with tasks like automation and generating basic animations. However, the creative and conceptual aspects of motion graphics require human expertise, making full replacement unlikely in the near future. Professionals who adapt by integrating AI tools and enhancing their technical skills will remain valuable in the field.

Is motion graphics a good career?

Motion graphics is a viable career for those with skills in design, animation, and software such as Adobe After Effects and Cinema 4D. It offers opportunities in advertising, film, television, and digital media, with demand increasing as visual content becomes more important online. Success often requires a strong portfolio, creativity, and staying updated with industry trends.

What does a graphics assistant do?

A graphics assistant supports the creation and editing of visual content for projects such as videos, advertisements, or digital media. They may help with designing graphics, organizing assets, and using software like Adobe After Effects or Photoshop under the guidance of motion designers or art directors.

What are some common challenges faced by Assistant Motion Graphics professionals, and how can they overcome them?

Assistant Motion Graphics professionals often encounter tight deadlines, frequent revisions, and the need to balance multiple projects at once. Effective time management and clear communication with senior designers and project managers are essential to meet expectations and deliver quality work. Additionally, staying updated with the latest software tools and animation trends helps assistants adapt quickly and contribute creatively to the team. Seeking feedback and collaborating closely with colleagues can also support skill development and workflow efficiency.
What are the most commonly searched types of Motion Graphics jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Motion Graphics jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Assistant Motion Graphics jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Assistant Motion Graphics job openings:
Assistant Motion Graphics jobs near you

Senior Motion Designer - The Heist

Thinkingbox

Chicago, IL • On-site, Remote

$85K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Who We Are

Hi! We're The Heist, the motion design, live action, and post production studio within Thinkingbox, the Brief-to-Built agency.

We bring together directors, designers, animators, editors, and technologists to create work that moves. From brand films to broadcast spots to social campaigns and experiential content, our team blends craft and curiosity to push ideas further. Across our studios, collaboration is real, feedback is open, and culture matters. We take the work seriously. Ourselves, a little less so.

The Opportunity

We're looking for a Senior Motion Designer who leads through craft. This is a hands-on role for someone who thrives inside the work while helping elevate the people around them.

You'll partner closely with Art Directors and Creative Directors to transform ideas into exceptional motion. Whether you're developing styleframes, designing key moments, building 3D scenes, or refining animation, you'll help establish the creative standard for every project you touch.

Beyond execution, you'll be a trusted teammate who mentors others, tackles creative and technical challenges, and helps guide projects through production with confidence and attention to detail.

What You'll Be Doing
  • Design and animate compelling 2D and 3D motion graphics across a wide range of styles and platforms.
  • Develop storyboards, styleframes, and motion explorations that support the creative vision.
  • Collaborate with Art Directors, Creative Directors, Producers, and fellow designers throughout production.
  • Take ownership of complex assignments, solving creative and technical challenges independently.
  • Help maintain a high level of craft, consistency, and polish across every deliverable.
  • Provide thoughtful feedback and mentorship to junior designers, helping raise the quality of the team.
  • Stay current with emerging tools, workflows, and technologies that improve both process and creative output.
  • Accurately estimate effort, communicate progress, and help projects stay on schedule.
What You'll Bring
  • 5+ years of professional experience in motion design, animation, or a related creative field.
  • A portfolio demonstrating exceptional design taste, animation principles, and versatility across styles.
  • Advanced proficiency in After Effects, Cinema 4D, Redshift, and Adobe Creative Suite.
  • Strong understanding of typography, composition, color, pacing, and visual storytelling.
  • Experience working within professional production pipelines from concept through final delivery.
  • Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate across disciplines.
  • A proactive, solution-oriented mindset with the confidence to own work while supporting the team.
Bonus Points!
  • Houdini, X-Particles, Marvelous Designer, or Substance Painter.
  • Unreal Engine, AI-assisted creative workflows, or other emerging motion technologies.
  • Experience with live action, editorial, or VFX pipelines.
Additional Info
  • Monday - Thursday in office (Fridays are remote optional)
  • Flexible time off, including paid vacation and sick days
  • Consistent culture and team-building events
  • Employee recognition and incentive programs
  • Seasonal celebrations and gatherings throughout the year 
  • Office lunches 
  • Branded company swag
  • Access to industry events, learning opportunities, and non-profit outreaches
  • Dog-friendly offices
  • Unlimited coffee, drinks, and snacks
  • Flex work and travel options
  • Comprehensive extended health benefits
  • 401k matching
$85,000 - $95,000 a year
Placement in the salary range will be based on factors such as internal equity, candidate experience, skills, and qualifications relevant to the role. If your compensation expectations fall outside of this range, we still welcome your application.

Equal Opportunity

At The Heist, we're committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued, heard, and empowered to thrive. We believe that diversity is our creative strength - it's the range of perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds that fuels our best ideas and most innovative solutions. We welcome and encourage applicants of all races, ethnicities, genders, identities, abilities, ages, sexual orientations, and backgrounds to apply. Your voice matters here.

To Apply

Thank you for your interest in joining our team. Please submit your resume along with links to your online portfolio as part of your application (if applicable). Due to the volume of applications we receive, we're unable to respond to every submission. However, all applications are kept in our talent database and will be considered for future opportunities.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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