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Background Artist Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

4imprint, Inc.

Preflight Artist

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

$19/hr

POSITION: Preflight Artist LOCATION: Available in both Appleton, WI and Oshkosh, WI HOURS: 1st ... Background Check, Education Verification, References, Drug Test DATE: 8/12/2026 We work with ...

C2 Staffing

Production Artist

Cascade, WI · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

... Artist who can hit the ground running. The right candidate loves data-driven publishing, craves a ... Familiarity with Monday.com and Onyx RIP software workflows Background in print production for ...

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All JobsBackground Artist JobsBackground Artist Jobs in Wisconsin

Background Artist information

See Wisconsin salary details

$9

$24

$40

How much do background artist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for background artist in Wisconsin is $24.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.69 and $28.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a background artist?

Background artists, also known as background painters or environment artists, are professionals who create the scenery, landscapes, and environments seen behind the main subjects in animated films, television shows, video games, and illustrations. Their work helps set the mood, establish the setting, and support the storytelling by providing detailed and visually appealing backgrounds. Background artists collaborate closely with other members of the art and animation team to ensure consistency in style and vision throughout the project.

How do background artists typically collaborate with other members of the animation team during a production?

Background artists work closely with art directors, layout artists, and animators to ensure the visual environment supports the story and character actions. They often attend team meetings to review storyboards and receive feedback, making adjustments to maintain consistency in style and mood. Effective communication and flexibility are key, as background artists may need to revise their work to align with changes in direction or animation requirements. This collaborative process helps create immersive settings that enhance the overall animation project.

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

To thrive as a Background Artist, you need strong artistic ability in drawing, painting, and composition, usually supported by a portfolio and relevant art or design education. Familiarity with digital illustration software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and industry-standard tools like Toon Boom or Blender is often necessary. Attention to detail, creativity, and effective collaboration are vital soft skills for producing visually cohesive environments. These skills ensure that backgrounds enhance storytelling and maintain visual consistency in animation, games, or film productions.

What is the difference between Background Artist vs Concept Artist?

AspectBackground ArtistConcept Artist
Required CredentialsArt degree or equivalent, portfolioArt degree or equivalent, portfolio
Work EnvironmentFilm, TV, animation studiosVideo game, film, animation studios
Industry UsageCreates backgrounds for scenesDesigns characters, environments, ideas
Common Search IntentBackground design, scene creationCharacter and environment concepts

Background Artists focus on creating detailed backgrounds and environments for scenes in animation, film, and TV. Concept Artists develop initial designs and visual ideas for characters, settings, and objects. While both roles require strong artistic skills and similar credentials, Background Artists specialize in scene backgrounds, whereas Concept Artists work on conceptualizing the overall look and feel of projects.

How much do background artists make?

Background artists in the entertainment industry typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and project scope. Entry-level artists may start lower, while experienced professionals or those working on major productions can earn higher salaries, often supplemented by freelance work or overtime. Skills in digital painting, animation software, and a strong portfolio can influence earning potential.

How to get hired as a background artist?

To get hired as a background artist, build a strong portfolio showcasing your environment and scene work, and gain proficiency in tools like Photoshop, SketchUp, or Blender. Relevant experience, a good understanding of perspective and color, and networking within the industry can improve your chances of employment.

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

The most popular types of Background Artist jobs in Wisconsin are:

What are popular job titles related to Background Artist jobs in Wisconsin?

For Background Artist jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Background Artist jobs in Wisconsin look for?

The top searched job categories for Background Artist jobs in Wisconsin are:

What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Background Artist jobs?

Cities in Wisconsin with the most Background Artist job openings:

Background Artist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Background Artist job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,742 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Preflight Artist

4imprint, Inc.

Oshkosh, WI • On-site

$19/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Process electronic images to ensure they are suitable for imprinting on promotional products.

  • Review and prepare press-ready files based on supplied specifications for printing.

  • Collaborate with the production team and customer service department to verify incoming art and troubleshoot issues.

4Imprint rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

103rd of 739 rated retailers

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION


POSITION: Preflight Artist


LOCATION: Available in both Appleton, WI and Oshkosh, WI

 

HOURS:

1st Shift: Monday – Friday: 6:30am-2:30pm - Base Pay $19.00/hr

2nd Shift: Monday – Thursday; 2:30pm-12:30am - Base Pay $19.00/hr + $2/hr = Total Pay $21.00

 

FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt

 

Pre-employment Screening: Background Check, Education Verification, References, Drug Test

 

DATE: 8/12/2026

 

We work with businesses and organizations of all kinds to provide them with personalized promotional products. A small part of their job is the biggest part of ours – that’s why one of our core values is to provide remarkable service. When you work here, you’ll be treated with the same level of respect and positive attitude.

As a preflight production artist, you will process electronic images suitable for imprinting on promotional products (i.e. garments). You will be working closely with the production team and customer service department to ensure incoming art is correct and pre-press ready for output. You may also be assigned to other production tasks as needed by other departments.

 

Here’s what a typical day might look like. (These are the essential functions of the job.)

Other duties may be assigned.

  • Demonstrate the eight core principles that guide every 4imprint teammate on a daily basis: Honesty, Curiosity, Collaboration, Flexibility, Accountability, Empathy, Positive Attitude, Humility.
  • Interpret work orders and job aids effectively to ensure accurate execution of job responsibilities.
  • Prepare final press-ready files based on supplied specifications for several types of printing.
  • Review technical and artistic elements of layouts, graphics, colors, and fonts before processing and preflight press-ready files for output.
  • Follow a development timeline to ensure tasks are completed on time.
  • Suggest improvements in the design patterns and implement the same.
  • Troubleshoot problems as they arise and collaborate with both the sales team and the printer operators and leads to fulfill design requirements while meeting client expectations.
  • Catalog and reference art for future projects.
  • Maintain a current understanding of trends and updates in your role.
  • Participate in training classes and actively seek professional development.

 

You might be a fit for this position if you are:

  • Friendly, tactful and professional in your communications on the phone and in e-mail.
  • Someone who likes to multi-task, takes initiative to solve problems and thrives on deadlines.
  • Organized and focused on the details that matter.
  • Fluent with your illustration skills and computer-generated, production art.


Required education/skills/experience:

  • Associate’s degree in related field. 
    • Applicants with equivalent, relevant experience will also be considered. 
  • 2-5 years of experience in a similar field. 
  • Demonstrated knowledge of Adobe Photoshop and either Corel Draw or Adobe Illustrator. 
  • Knowledge of computer-generated, production art related skills and terminology. 
  • Knowledge of imprinting methods and experience in the promotional products industry is a plus.
  • Strong attention to detail with exceptional creative skills.
  • Please refer to the physical requirements form for details on the physical requirements of this role. 

 

Work Environment:

4imprint has a drug-free workplace policy.

An individual in this position must be able to successfully perform the essential duties, responsibilities, and physical demands listed in this job description. 


The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodation(s) will be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions. 

  • Regular and predictable attendance.
  • Ability to effectively communicate with others (verbally and in writing).
  • Ability to enter data.
  • Work will be performed at 4imprint, Oshkosh.


H-1B or other work authorization visa sponsorship is not offered for this position. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire and maintain work authorization throughout the employment term. If you have questions regarding this, please contact Human Resources.


The following five drugs or classes of drugs will be tested for: 1) Marijuana (THC) 2) Cocaine Metabolites 3) Phencyclidine 4) Amphetamines (Class) 5) Opiate Metabolites.


4imprint has a drug-free workplace policy.
 
 Equal opportunity employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.


 
 

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