ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Cartoonist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MSSI

Graphics Specialist/Cartoonist - Intermediate (contingent 034) Location(s): APG, MD OR remote Strong portfolio showcasing drawing skills, proficiency in industry-standard animation software such as ...

SPS

Graphics Specialist/Cartoonist - Intermediate (contingent 034) Location(s): APG, MD OR remote Strong portfolio showcasing drawing skills, proficiency in industry-standard animation software such as ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsCartoonist Jobs

Cartoonist information

See salary details

$5

$20

$34

How much do cartoonist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for cartoonist in the United States is $20.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Cartoonist Do?

The job duties of a cartoonist involve working to draw cartoons and characters for animation, illustrate books or comics, make advertisements, or create political cartoons for newspapers or magazines. Your responsibilities in this career vary depending on your area of expertise and the field in which you work. In some cartoonist positions, you may sketch your ideas for approval before creating the actual cartoon. In newspapers or magazines, you may work with an editor and be required to complete work under deadline.

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

To thrive as a Cartoonist, you need strong drawing skills, creativity, and a solid grasp of visual storytelling, usually supported by a portfolio or a degree in art or illustration. Familiarity with digital illustration software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, or Procreate is typically required. Effective communication, adaptability, and a keen sense of humor help a cartoonist stand out in creating engaging and relatable content. These skills and qualities are vital for producing appealing cartoons that resonate with audiences and meet client or publication needs.

What are some common challenges cartoonists face when working with editors or clients?

Cartoonists often need to balance their creative vision with the expectations and guidelines set by editors or clients. This can involve adapting their style, modifying content to suit audience preferences, and meeting strict deadlines. Clear communication and flexibility are essential, as feedback may require multiple revisions. Building strong professional relationships can help cartoonists navigate these challenges and produce work that satisfies both their artistic standards and the project's objectives.

What are cartoonists?

Cartoonists are artists who create cartoons, which are illustrations or series of drawings that can be humorous, satirical, or convey a specific message. They may work in newspapers, magazines, comic books, animation studios, or online media. Cartoonists use their creativity and drawing skills to develop characters, stories, and visual commentary on current events or social issues. Some cartoonists specialize in political cartoons, while others focus on comic strips or graphic novels.

What is the difference between Cartoonist vs Comic Artist?

AspectCartoonistComic Artist
CredentialsTypically no formal certification, portfolio-basedOften similar, with emphasis on storytelling skills
Work EnvironmentNewspapers, magazines, online mediaComic books, graphic novels, webcomics
Industry UsageUsed in editorial, satirical, and humorous contextsUsed in entertainment, storytelling, and publishing

While both Cartoonists and Comic Artists create visual content, Cartoonists often focus on single-panel or satirical illustrations for media outlets, whereas Comic Artists specialize in sequential storytelling through comic strips or books. The roles overlap in skills and tools, but their primary outputs and industry contexts differ.

More about Cartoonist jobs
What cities are hiring for Cartoonist jobs? Cities with the most Cartoonist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cartoonist jobs? The most popular types of Cartoonist jobs are:
What states have the most Cartoonist jobs? States with the most job openings for Cartoonist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cartoonist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cartoonist jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Cartoonist jobs? For Cartoonist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Cartoonist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cartoonist job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% Internship, 53% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 8% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,652 per year, or $21 per hour.
Graphic Specialist/Cartoonist -Intermediate (contingent 034)

Graphic Specialist/Cartoonist -Intermediate (contingent 034)

MSSI

On-site, Remote

Full-time

Posted yesterday

Job description

Title: Graphics Specialist/Cartoonist – Intermediate (contingent 034) Location(s): APG, MD OR remote Strong portfolio showcasing drawing skills, proficiency in industry-standard animation software such as Adobe Animate or Toon Boom Harmony, and have a deep understanding of animation principles of timing, movement, and storytelling to create engaging animated content; key skills include storyboarding, character design, and the ability to adapt to different animation styles. Secret security clearance is required. Responsibilities include:
  • Provide specialized cartoon illustration and character design support to enhance visual storytelling for CPE IEW&S communication initiatives.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in digital illustration software and collaborate closely with public affairs, multimedia designers, and print production staff to ensure creative alignment and message clarity.
  • Develop original cartoon illustrations, character designs, and comic-style graphics to support public-facing and internal communication products across print and digital media.
  • Translate complex technical or operational content into engaging cartoon visuals that simplify messaging and increase audience comprehension.
  • Collaborate with the public affairs team and senior creatives to conceptualize cartoon-based campaigns, storyboards, and visual themes aligned with mission objectives.
  • Prepare artwork for integration into larger multimedia projects, including videos, infographics, social media content, and educational materials.
  • Ensure all cartoon-based products adhere to Army and CPE IEW&S branding, security, and communication guidelines while maintaining stylistic consistency across deliverables.
  • Adhere to the company's AS9100 and QMS policies, procedures and guidelines.
  • Will perform other duties as assigned.
Education/Experience:
  • Bachelors Degree - computer graphics, animation, fine arts or a related field.
  • A minimum four years' (4) experience in the field of animation and design relevant experience required.
  • Substitution: Associates degree and minimum seven (7) experience in the field of animation and design. Additional years' experience can substitute for field of study.
  • Familiarity with scripting and storyboarding.
  • Ability to draw in a variety of styles.
  • Experience in character rigging and skeletal animation.
  • Strong understanding of timing, pacing and storytelling in animation.
  • Preferred: Experience with 3D animation and modeling preferred.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

Apply