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

Music & Arts

Music Store Associate

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 ...

Music & Arts

Music Sales Expert

Timonium, MD · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

Why Music & Arts? Here's just some of the rewards: Pay Rate: $15.00 - $16.00/hr plus commission depending on location, background and experience. For our employees who are musicians we offer the ...

Music & Arts

Music Sales 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

Music Sales Expert

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

Music Sales Rep

Timonium, MD · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

Why Music & Arts? Here's just some of the rewards: Pay Rate: $15.00 - $16.00/hr plus commission depending on location, background and experience. For our employees who are musicians we offer the ...

Music & Arts

Instrument Sales Associate

Timonium, MD · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

Why Music & Arts? Here's just some of the rewards: Pay Rate: $15.00 - $16.00/hr plus commission depending on location, background and experience. For our employees who are musicians we offer the ...

Music & Arts

Music Store 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 ...

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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.

Music Store Associate

Music & Arts

Severna Park, MD • On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 15 days ago

Music & Arts rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 66 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

236th of 733 rated retailers

Job description

The purpose of this job is to consistently achieve individual sales goals to support the store's sales and profit objectives, provide superior customer service, and take on other senior-level responsibilities within a store.

Essential Functions (not all-inclusive):

  • Generate sales to exceed personal sales goals
  • Promote the Music & Arts lesson program
  • Create business by networking with teachers/schools, churches, and community organizations
  • Develop customer relationships and provide compelling sales presentations based on sales training
  • Demonstrate outstanding customer service to each and every customer
  • Promote customer loyalty
  • Participate in all areas of store's operation including merchandising, displays, and maintenance
  • Maintain store security including: perimeter door keys, register keys and personal alarm code
  • Additional duties as assigned.

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 unique opportunity of gig leave--take time off to share your music with the world and return to your job after your tour! Music & Arts offers robust benefits and perks, including 401K plus company match, employee discount program, and more.

The job posting is not necessarily reflective of actual compensation that may be earned, nor a promise of any specific pay for any specific employee, which is always dependent on actual experience, education, and other factors. The pay range(s) listed are provided in compliance with state specific laws. Pay ranges may be different in other locations

Additional Information:

Music & Arts is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides fair and equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status or any other protected status prohibited under Federal, State, or local laws. All employment decisions are based on valid job? related requirements.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran and are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our website, you may request a reasonable accommodation to express interest in a specific opening. You can request reasonable accommodation by calling 1?818-735-8800 ext. 2862 or by sending an email to recruiting@guitarcenter.com.

Skills, Experience and Education:

Minimum Requirements:

  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • 2 years of relevant work experience
  • Skilled knowledge of musical instruments and written music
About Music & Arts

The first Music & Arts was located in a small house in Bethesda, MD and run by founder Benjamin O'Brien. When Music & Arts opened its doors in 1952, we offered printed music, music lessons, dance lessons, and art supplies. Ben decided shortly after opening his business that he wanted to focus on music to better serve his customers -- a decision that remains intact to this day.

Since the 1990's, Music & Arts has expanded nationwide through organic growth and a series of acquisitions and mergers with other music dealers. In 2005, Music & Arts joined forces with American Music to become the largest band and orchestra instrument retailer in the United States. Based in Frederick, MD, Music & Arts is now part of the Guitar Center enterprise and comprises 200+ retail stores, 120+ educational representatives, and 300+ affiliate locations.

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