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Cartoon Animation Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

DePaul

Adjunct Faculty in Animation

Chicago, IL · On-site

... Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, JibJab, Sesame Street, Klasky Csupo, and Will Vinton. To learn more about DePaul Animation check out our Animation Zine Considerations: Exceptions to standard rates may ...

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Cartoon Animation information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$40

$72

How much do cartoon animation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for cartoon animation in Chicago, IL is $40.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.55 and $65.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cartoon animator?

To thrive as a Cartoon Animator, you need strong drawing abilities, a solid understanding of animation principles, and typically a degree in animation or a related field. Proficiency with animation software such as Adobe Animate, Toon Boom Harmony, or Autodesk Maya is essential, along with familiarity with digital drawing tablets. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help animators bring characters to life and collaborate effectively within a team. These skills ensure engaging, high-quality animation that meets project goals and captivates audiences.

What is the difference between Cartoon Animation vs 3D Animation?

AspectCartoon Animation3D Animation
Skills & CredentialsDrawing, storytelling, basic animation softwareModeling, rigging, advanced software like Maya or Blender
Work Environment2D animation studios, freelance projectsFilm, gaming, advertising industries
Industry UsageTV cartoons, web seriesMovies, video games, simulations

Cartoon Animation primarily involves creating 2D characters and scenes using drawing skills and 2D software, often for TV shows and web content. 3D Animation focuses on creating three-dimensional models and environments, used extensively in movies and gaming. While both roles require animation skills, they differ in techniques, tools, and industry applications.

How do I become a cartoon animator?

To become a cartoon animator, you typically need a bachelor's degree in animation, fine arts, or a related field, along with strong drawing skills and proficiency in animation software such as Adobe Animate or Toon Boom. Building a portfolio of your work and gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions can also help you develop your skills and secure employment in the industry.

What does a cartoon animator do?

A cartoon animator creates animated characters, scenes, and stories for television shows, films, advertisements, and digital media. They use specialized software to design and animate moving images, bringing stories and ideas to life through visual storytelling. Cartoon animators often work as part of a team, collaborating with writers, directors, and other artists to achieve the desired look and feel of a project. Their work may involve both traditional hand-drawn techniques and modern computer animation methods.

What are some common challenges faced by cartoon animators when working on team projects?

Cartoon animators often work as part of a larger creative team, which can present challenges such as aligning on a consistent animation style, meeting tight deadlines, and effectively communicating creative ideas. Coordinating with storyboard artists, voice actors, and editors requires clear communication and flexibility to accommodate feedback and revisions. Navigating software compatibility and version control can also be challenging, especially when multiple animators are contributing to the same sequence. Developing strong collaboration and time management skills is key to overcoming these challenges and producing high-quality animations.

What are popular job titles related to Cartoon Animation jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Cartoon Animation jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cartoon Animation jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Cartoon Animation jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Cartoon Animation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cartoon Animation job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 12% Internship, 63% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,511 per year, or $40.6 per hour.

Adjunct Faculty in Animation

DePaul University

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

DePaul University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

385th of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
DePaul's Jarvis College of Computing & Digital Media (CDM) is located in the heart of Chicago's Loop, the central business district of Chicago. Our students represent many different experiences, perspectives, and cultures, and the university strives to recruit and sustain a faculty community where all backgrounds are valued and supported. Part-time teaching positions are available throughout the academic year, including summer sessions. Academic course schedules fluctuate from quarter to quarter, and the college will work with selected individuals to determine a quarterly schedule. Courses are not guaranteed, however the college does its best to give ample notice about available courses. Applicants with expertise that matches course scheduling needs will be contacted for an interview.
The School of Cinematic Arts (SCA) offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs incluuding Film and Television, Animation, Creative Producing, Documentary, and Screenwriting on the Loop campus and at DePaul Cinespace Studios. Find out more about SCA at https://www.cdm.depaul.edu/academics/Pages/School-of-Cinematic-Arts.aspx.
Qualifications
Minimum requirements include a master's degree in the discipline, or 18 semester/27 quarter hours of graduate work in the discipline, or an undergraduate degree with a minimum of five years demonstrated relevant professional experience. Exceptions may be considered with approval of the dean.
Application Instructions
The DePaul Animation Program is part of DePaul University's School of Cinematic Arts. We offer studies in hand-drawn animation (TVPaint and Harmony), Maya, game art, motion graphics, experimental animation, technical art, and stop motion animation. There are currently over 250 majors enrolled in our Animation MFA, MA, BFA and BA degrees, and we have 12 full-time Animation faculty members who have worked for studios including Walt Disney Animation Studios, Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, JibJab, Sesame Street, Klasky Csupo, and Will Vinton. To learn more about DePaul Animation check out our Animation Zine https://www.cdm.depaul.edu/AnimationZine
Considerations:
Exceptions to standard rates may apply to courses with unique credit hours, supervision, labs, clinical/practicum courses, coaching, administrative tasks, and courses that are either over-enrolled or under-enrolled.
General Compensation/Benefits Statement:
DePaul University has provided a compensation range that represents its good faith estimate of what the University may pay for the position at the time of posting. The salary offered to the selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the qualifications, education, experience, and training of the selected candidate, the scope and responsibilities of the position, departmental budget availability, internal salary equity considerations, and available market information.
DePaul University offers a variety of benefit options for qualified part-time employees. Further information regarding benefits can be found here: https://offices.depaul.edu/human-resources/benefits/part-time/Pages/default.aspx
About DePaul University's Academic Calendar:
Except for the College of Law, DePaul University operates on a quarter system. Classes in Autumn, Winter, and Spring quarters are 11 weeks in length (including finals week) and Summer courses, in two sessions, are typically 5 weeks in length. The College of Law operates on the semester system. Classes in the Fall and Spring semesters are 16 weeks in length (including finals week) and it offers a Summer Session of 7 weeks (including final exams).

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