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Background Artist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Colby

Teaching Artist

Waterville, ME · On-site

A strong artistic background combined with the ability to translate that into effective and engaging lessons for different age groups. * Proficient with a variety of art media and techniques that are ...

Udio

Head of Artist Partnerships

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$160K - $350K/yr

Background working with emerging technologies in music or creative tools. Why Join Us * You will define and lead how artists engage with Udio at a pivotal moment in the company's growth. * You'll ...

Magnopus

AI Artist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

Magnopus is looking for an AI Artist to create high-quality, photorealistic imagery and motion ... A background in compositing, digital matte painting, LookDev, animation or another relevant ...

Arrow International, Inc.

Senior Artist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80 - $120K/hr

The Senior Artist will use their artistic expertise with color, composition, shape, typography ... Gaming or casino-related knowledge or background. * Knowledge of animation principles. Usage of ...

Magnopus

AI Artist

Los Angeles, CA

$100K - $160K/yr

A background in compositing, digital matte painting, LookDev, animation or another relevant ... If you have strong artistic experience, hands-on expertise with generative AI image and video ...

Joffrey Ballet

Teaching Artist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50/hr

Clear background and reference checks are required. * Experience teaching and choreographing dances ... Must regularly explore skill development to grow as an artist and must be open to feedback.

Arrow International, Inc

Senior Artist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80 - $120K/hr

The Senior Artist will use their artistic expertise with color, composition, shape, typography ... Gaming or casino-related knowledge or background. * Knowledge of animation principles. Usage of ...

Magnopus

AI Artist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

A background in compositing, digital matte painting, LookDev, animation or another relevant ... If you have strong artistic experience, hands-on expertise with generative AI image and video ...

A.Harod & Associates

Graphic Artist

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$117K - $140K/yr

Graphic Artist A. Harold and Associates, LLC (AHA), is seeking qualified candidates for a position ... Offers of employment are conditional upon satisfactory completion of pre-employment background ...

Arrow International Inc

Senior Artist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80 - $120K/hr

The Senior Artist will use their artistic expertise with color, composition, shape, typography ... Gaming or casino-related knowledge or background. * Knowledge of animation principles. Usage of ...

Havas Health & You

Presentation Artist

New York, NY

$138K - $166K/yr

Presentation Artist The Presentation Artist creates, modifies, and prepares digital presentation ... College degree with a design background preferred * 2-4 years of experience in Powerpoint and ...

LA 411

Storyboard/Design Artist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $135K/yr

The Comedy Central animated TV series, "South Park," is looking for a passionate, artistic, and ... Duties will primarily include Storyboard but also Background Design, Character Design, Cinematic ...

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Background Artist information

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How much do background artist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for background artist in the United States is $24.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $27.88 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.
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Background Artist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Background Artist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Part Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,263 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Graphic Artist

Boynton Beach, FL • On-site

American/Interstate Signcrafters
See more jobs at American/Interstate Signcraftersexternal

$119K - $142K/yr

Other

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Graphic Artist – Signage Industry


American/Interstate Signcrafters is seeking an experienced Graphic Artist to join our growing team. The ideal candidate has a strong background in the signage industry and is proficient in CorelDRAW.


In this role, you will support our design team by creating architectural drawings, renderings, layouts, and project plans. You will also revise designs based on feedback from clients, stakeholders, and internal project teams.


We are looking to fill this position as soon as possible.


Responsibilities

  • Develop and illustrate design concepts, including rough layouts that address arrangement, scale, typography, style, and overall aesthetics.
  • Create signage artwork and production-ready designs using CorelDRAW and Adobe Creative Suite.
  • Assist with architectural drawings, renderings, and project plans.
  • Collaborate with internal teams from the initial concept phase through project completion.
  • Prepare rough layouts and design concepts for review and approval.
  • Revise artwork and layouts according to client, stakeholder, and project-team feedback.
  • Prepare accurate final layouts and finished artwork for production.
  • Manage multiple projects while meeting established deadlines.
  • Ensure all work meets company standards and project specifications.


Qualifications

  • Proficiency in CorelDRAW is required.
  • Previous professional signage-industry experience is required.
  • Five to eight years of graphic design experience.
  • Strong graphic design, typography, and layout skills.
  • Experience with Adobe Creative Suite.
  • Ability to interpret project requirements and translate them into effective visual solutions.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Creativity and flexibility in a deadline-driven environment.
  • Excellent attention to detail.
  • Ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with internal teams.


About American/Interstate Signcrafters


American/Interstate Signcrafters delivers high-quality signage solutions and is continuing to grow. We are looking for an experienced, detail-oriented Graphic Artist who can contribute to our team and help bring client projects from concept through completion.


If you have signage experience, strong CorelDRAW skills, and a passion for producing accurate, effective design work, we encourage you to apply.

Apply