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Computer Animator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Brow & Beauty Expert

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18 - $22.13/hr

Proactively drive events and animations to generate business and improve client loyalty. * Ensure ... Able to use a computer and MPOS for client transactions. Requirements * Must maintain compliance ...

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Computer Animator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$40

$72

How much do computer animator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for computer animator 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 Computer Animator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Computer Animator, you need strong artistic abilities, proficiency in animation principles, and a relevant degree or certification in animation or a related field. Expertise in industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, Adobe After Effects, and Blender is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills that help animators bring stories and characters to life. These skills ensure high-quality, visually compelling animations that meet project goals and client expectations.

What are some common challenges computer animators face when working within a production team?

Computer animators often work closely with other departments, such as modeling, rigging, and lighting, which requires strong communication and flexibility. One common challenge is adapting animation work based on feedback or technical constraints, such as tight deadlines or changes in the creative direction. Additionally, animators may need to troubleshoot software issues or optimize their work to ensure smooth performance in the final render. Collaborating effectively and staying adaptable are key to overcoming these challenges in a fast-paced production environment.

What does a computer animator do?

A computer animator creates moving images and visual effects using computer software. They design, model, and animate characters, environments, and objects for use in films, television, video games, and other digital media. Computer animators work closely with other artists and directors to bring stories and concepts to life, often using specialized animation tools and techniques. Their work may involve both 2D and 3D animation, depending on the project's requirements.
What are popular job titles related to Computer Animator jobs in Chicago, IL? For Computer Animator jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Computer Animator jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Animator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Mathematics Adjunct Faculty Pool, School of Design

Mathematics Adjunct Faculty Pool, School of Design

Columbia College Chicago

Chicago, IL

$5.6K/mo

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

In addition to its regular, full-time faculty, Columbia College Chicago hires scholars, creative professionals and other industry-experienced Adjunct Faculty to teach courses on a part-time basis. Positions are not available every semester and are contingent upon student enrollment and the availability of funding.

To be qualified to teach at the college, candidates must possess a degree at least one level above the level at which they teach, with a terminal degree in the relevant discipline as the preferred credential. In terminal degree programs, faculty members will possess the same level of degree. In occasional cases, demonstrated currency in a specialized discipline and a sustained history of distinguished professional work, compelling creative achievements, or other significant experience in the relevant field may be considered as an alternative to the required degree.

REQUIRED:

  • Masters degree in Mathematics or a related field
  • Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills to engage students and effectively convey concepts and critique student work
  • Ability to translate both simpler and complex mathematics concepts into clear, accessible lessons
  • Passion for non-majors math education and a commitment to student learning and development

PREFERRED:

  • PhD in Mathematics or a related field
  • Demonstrated success in teaching, lecturing, or mentoring students, either in an academic or professional setting, preferably in higher education
  • A passion for teaching and a commitment to fostering a learning environment that encourages creativity, critical thinking, and professional growth among students
  • Experience in project-based learning or hands-on teaching methodologies
  • Demonstrated success in developmental mathematics courses and courses before Calculus

In addition to general education mathematics courses, the School of Design offers courses in disciplines including animation (traditional and computer), interior architecture, graphic design, UX/UI, game design and art, cinema visual effects, game programming, and software development, interior architecture, as well as general education courses in science. 

Please include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and three references. Further materials, such as official transcripts sent from the degree-granting institution, may be requested at a later date.

Entry level compensation rate for teaching one 3-credit course as of Fall 2026 is $5,635.00. Compensation for courses that carry fewer or more than three credits will be prorated down or up accordingly.

At Columbia, we offer a rewarding work environment for our faculty and staff. We take pride in offering competitive benefits with affordable health, dental and vision coverage; flexible spending accounts; commuter benefit program, life, and accidental, death & dismemberment coverage; paid and unpaid leave options; work/life benefits; educational assistance programs; and retirement and financial planning benefits. Click here for more information.

Columbia College Chicago actively promotes, access to an expansive array of social and cultural theories, practices and perspectives that are vitally important to the successful delivery of a contemporary creative curriculum and the college's mission to educate students who will author the culture of their times. These principles are essential to the educational experiences of our students, staff, and faculty. 

We seek individuals with a demonstrated ability to work with students from a wide range of social and cultural backgrounds, and whose creative, scholarly and/or professional work contributes to a rich educational experience consistent with our mission. For more information, please visit: colum.edu/academic-access-and-excellence.

Additional Information: 

  • Position subject to a background screening.
  • This is a union position.
  • This position is overtime ineligible.

Columbia College Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all local, state, and federal laws and regulations concerning civil rights. The college does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law.