ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Background Artist Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

Eckerd Connects

Culinary Arts Instructor

Washington, DC · On-site

$60K - $69K/yr

The Culinary Arts Instructor performs as an instructor in a regular classroom setting, presenting ... Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a nationwide criminal background check.

Music & Arts

Music Store Associate

Laurel, MD · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

Why Music & Arts? Here's just some of the rewards: Pay Rate: $15-$16 per hr plus commission depending on location, background and experience. For our employees who are musicians we offer the unique ...

Music & Arts

Instrument Sales Associate

Hanover, MD · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Why Music & Arts? Here's just some of the rewards: Pay Rate: $16.00 - $17.00/hr plus commission depending on location, background and experience. For our employees who are musicians we offer the ...

Music & Arts

Music Sales Expert

Severna Park, MD · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Why Music & Arts? Here's just some of the rewards: Pay Rate: $16.00 - $17.00/hr plus commission depending on location, background and experience. For our employees who are musicians we offer the ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsBackground Artist JobsBackground Artist Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Background Artist information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$9

$25

$41

How much do background artist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for background artist in Silver Spring, MD is $25.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

What are popular job titles related to Background Artist jobs in Silver Spring, MD?

For Background Artist jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Background Artist jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Background Artist jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:

Background Artist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Background Artist job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,832 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Visual & Performing Arts Department Assistant

Howard Community College Job Search

Columbia, MD • On-site

$17/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Position Information
About Us
Howard Community College (HCC) is an exciting place to work, learn, and grow! We are proud to have received the Great Colleges to Work For honor for 12 consecutive years, 2009-2020.
Howard Community College values diversity among its faculty, staff and student population. We are an innovative institution that is committed to responding to the ever-changing needs and interests of a diverse and dynamic community. No matter where you want to go in your career, you can get there from here!

Position Title Visual & Performing Arts Department Assistant FLSA Non-Exempt FT/PT Part Time Hours Per Week 20 Work Schedule Monday - Friday (Fall and Spring semesters) Position Salary Range $17/hr Summary
The Departments of Visual Arts and Performing Arts are seeking individuals with visual or performing arts backgrounds who are interested in learning about the management and operations of academic art studios and theatre, dance, & music practice spaces.
The Departmental Assistant will support and aid the Visual Arts and Performing Arts Departments' students, faculty, and staff through the upkeep of studio spaces, practice rooms, studio maintenance, and facilitate studio and practice room access and scheduling.
One of the primary responsibilities of this position is to operate and monitor the Visual and Performing Arts Help Desk. This may also involve working with and overseeing student employees. Experienced staff members will have the opportunity to implement process improvements.
VAPA Help Desk operates M-F 10-6 throughout the Fall and Spring semester. The Departmental Assistant must be available to work their shifts during these hours.
Essential Role Responsibilities
Specific tasks will be assigned based upon individual studio/program needs but may include but not be limited to:
  • monitor visual and performing arts help desk
  • provide access to studios and practice areas by signing out access keys
  • check out and check in equipment
  • scheduling studio spaces
  • general studio upkeep, piano and prop room upkeep
  • supporting faculty's and departments' special projects
  • creation of basic signage
  • clerical tasks

Minimum Education Required High School or equivalent Experience Required
  • a background and basic knowledge in an area of visual or performing arts.
  • Strong organizational skills
  • General computer skills (MS Office, Google Docs, etc.)
  • Ability to lift 20-25 pounds
Minimum and Preferred Qualifications Physical Demand Summary Division Teaching & Learning Services Department Liberal Studies
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number NB303P Number of Vacancies 1 Best Consideration Date 07/27/2026 Job Open Date 07/06/2026 Job Close Date Continuous Recruitment? No Applicant Instructions
*Pre-employment criminal background investigation is a condition of employment.
HCC is interested in all qualified applicants who are eligible to work in the United States. However, HCC will generally not sponsor applicants for work visas. Due to HCC policy, only employees living in states contiguous to Maryland are eligible for work at HCC and include Virginia, West Virginia, Washington DC, Pennsylvania. Candidates must live in the commutable area or willing to relocate at their own expense if offered the position because HCC does not offer relocation benefits.
Please complete the entire HCC Employment Application (Candidates will be evaluated on completing the college's application in full).
Quick Link for Internal Postings https://howardcc.peopleadmin.com/postings/5957 EEO Statement
Howard Community College (HCC) is an Equal Employment Opportunity & Affirmative Action employer & values diversity within its faculty, staff & student population. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability or protected veteran status. HCC understands that persons with specific disabilities may need assistance with the job application process and/or with the interview process. For confidential assistance with the job application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at 443-518-1100.

Apply