1

Background Artist Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... arts/larger creative arena or is eager to learn. Previous experience and a background within the ... About the Opportunity Operations Intern David Zwirner is seeking an Operations Intern to work ...

Interns are assigned to departments based on their academic background, professional skills ... General exposure to the museum world and arts administration fields * Four free tickets to every ...

Showing results 21-40

Background Artist Intern information

See salary details

$9

$19

$36

How much do background artist intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for background artist intern in the United States is $19.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a background artist intern do?

A Background Artist Intern assists in creating the visual environments for animations, films, or video games. Their responsibilities typically include illustrating landscapes, interiors, and other settings that provide context for the characters and action. Interns often work under the guidance of senior artists, helping with digital painting, color correction, and integrating backgrounds with other visual elements. This role is a great opportunity to learn industry techniques, develop a portfolio, and gain hands-on experience in a creative studio setting.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a background artist intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Background Artist Intern, you need strong skills in drawing, painting, color theory, and composition, often backed by coursework or a portfolio in visual arts or animation. Familiarity with digital illustration tools such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, or industry-standard animation software is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to take direction and collaborate with a production team are essential soft skills. These skills ensure the creation of visually appealing backgrounds that support storytelling and blend seamlessly within animated scenes.

What are some common challenges faced by background artist interns, and how can they overcome them?

Background Artist Interns often face challenges such as adapting to different artistic styles, managing tight deadlines, and effectively communicating with other team members. To overcome these, it's important to be open to feedback, proactively ask questions, and study the studio's existing artwork to align with the visual direction. Building strong collaboration skills and practicing efficient time management will help interns integrate smoothly into the team and handle multiple assignments with confidence.

What is the difference between Background Artist Intern vs Background Painter?

AspectBackground Artist InternBackground Painter
Required CredentialsArt or animation-related coursework, portfolioArt degree or equivalent, portfolio
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, collaborative studioProfessional studio, freelance or in-house
Industry UsageEntry-level, training role in animation/filmFull-time, professional role in animation/film

The main difference is that a Background Artist Intern is an entry-level position designed for learning and gaining experience, often requiring coursework and a portfolio. A Background Painter is a full-time professional role involving creating detailed backgrounds for animation or film projects. Interns typically work under supervision, while background painters work independently or as part of a team on completed projects.

More about Background Artist Intern jobs

What cities are hiring for Background Artist Intern jobs?

Cities with the most Background Artist Intern job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Background Artist jobs?

The most popular types of Background Artist jobs are:

What states have the most Background Artist Intern jobs?

States with the most job openings for Background Artist Intern jobs include:

Infographic showing various Background Artist Intern job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,304 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Arts Education Internship

Partnership With Children

New York, NY • On-site

Internship

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Organization: Partnership with Children
Location: New York City, NY
Duration: Sept - Dec.Hours: flexible hours, Tuesday/Wednesay
*Must be a current student for college credit
Arts Education Department at Partnership With Children: The Arts Education Department at Partnership with Children works to infuse healing arts into Partnerships' work with children across New York City by providing high-quality, culturally sustaining, community-based arts instruction to foster the holistic development of children in our schools. Our work supports students' abilities to analyze, share, and interpret their experiences, assuring they are active contributors in shaping their communities and futures. At the same time, we recognize the profound impact of trauma on young minds and believe that creating safe communities for artistic exploration is essential for healing and growth.As a supportive pillar of PWC school-based programming, we use arts to address the trauma that impacts students' lives, while simultaneously strengthening the ecosystem of relationships surrounding them in their school environments.
  • We value the development of our students and students' sense of joy, safety, and room for expression.
  • We are committed to process-oriented work.
  • We build residencies to meet students'/schools' SEL and Curricular needs.
  • We work to support access to high quality arts instruction for all NYC students.
  • We are committed to anti-racist and culturally responsive teaching.

Qualifications: Applicants need not be artists- strong interest or background in arts admin, youth development and arts education would all be excellent fits for this role.
Internship Description: Reports to Arts Ed Department Program Director. Intern will meet weekly with our program director to give direction on tasks and discuss the work and insights. As an intern with the Arts Education Department, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on our programs and gain hands-on experience in a dynamic team environment. Responsibilities will vary based on time of year and interest but will include:
  • Assisting with program documentation and evaluation.
  • Support in conducting school site visits and coordinating school residencies and special events
  • Supporting day-to-day program execution in our 3 program areas.
  • Supporting teaching artists with materials and logistics
  • Participate in program staff meetings and collaborative work sessions
  • Assisting in the field with document and data collection, documenting programs, supporting our afterschool youth career in the arts program

Skills and Qualifications:
  • Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced office environment.
  • Excellent interpersonal and written/verbal communication skills.
  • Enthusiasm for taking on new projects and ideas.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
  • Creative self-starter comfortable with both initiative and collaboration.
  • Proficiency in Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, or other design applications (preferred).
  • Energetic, task-oriented, and creative with a strong work ethic and a positive attitude.
  • Ability to communicate effectively and maintain a professional demeanor

How to Apply: Directly through the link here
Equal Opportunity Employer: Partnership with Children is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.