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Disney Animation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pixar Animation Studios

Research Scientist

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$162K - $210K/yr

Conduct world-class research in computer graphics and AI to develop innovative solutions for Pixar and Disney film productions. This role bridges the gap between academic research and practical ...

Magnopus

Machine Learning Engineer II

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Develop internal tools using ML to streamline workflows for production, art, animation, or audio ... ISS Disney Pixar Coco VR Blade Runner 2049: Memory Lab The Lion King - Virtual Production Elixir We ...

The Walt Disney Company

Senior Designer

Bristol, CT · On-site

$87K - $116K/yr

Senior Designer Req ID: 10151587 The Visual Storytelling division of ESPN Creative Studio is a team of designers, concept artists, animators, photo editors, developers and visual journalists whose ...

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How much do disney animation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for disney animation in the United States is $39.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.88 and $63.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Disney Animation position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Disney Animation, you need strong artistic abilities in drawing, character design, and storytelling, often underpinned by a degree in animation or related fields. Proficiency in industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, Adobe Creative Suite, and Toon Boom Harmony, as well as familiarity with storyboarding and digital sculpting tools, is essential. Creativity, collaboration, adaptability, and effective communication are important soft skills for integrating feedback and working within multidisciplinary teams. These competencies ensure high-quality, innovative animated content that meets Disney's rigorous storytelling and visual standards.

How to get into Disney animation?

To get into Disney animation as an animator or artist, develop strong skills in traditional and digital drawing, storytelling, and animation software such as Maya or Adobe Creative Suite. A relevant degree in animation, fine arts, or a related field, along with a strong portfolio demonstrating your work, is essential for applying to entry-level or internship positions at Disney or similar studios.

Does Disney still hire 2D animators?

Disney Animation continues to hire 2D animators, especially for projects that involve traditional hand-drawn animation or hybrid techniques. Candidates typically need strong drawing skills, proficiency in animation software like Toon Boom or TVPaint, and a portfolio demonstrating 2D animation expertise.

What is a Disney Animation job?

A Disney Animation job involves working in various roles to create animated films and series for Walt Disney Animation Studios. Positions range from artists, animators, and storyboard artists to technical roles like software engineers and production coordinators. Employees collaborate to bring stories to life using cutting-edge technology, storytelling techniques, and artistic skills. Each role contributes to the animation pipeline, ensuring high-quality storytelling and visuals.

What is a typical work environment like for professionals in Disney Animation?

Disney Animation professionals typically work in collaborative studio settings, where creative teams including animators, storyboard artists, riggers, and technical directors come together on projects. Daily work often involves team meetings, creative reviews, and close coordination with various departments to ensure consistency in storytelling and visual style. The environment is fast-paced and dynamic, with frequent opportunities to learn new tools and processes. Career growth at Disney Animation is supported through mentorship, internal training programs, and opportunities to take on increasing creative or technical responsibilities as you gain experience.

What college do most Disney animators go to?

Many Disney animators have attended art schools or universities with strong animation programs, such as California Institute of the Arts, Sheridan College, or the University of California system. A relevant degree in animation, fine arts, or related fields, along with strong portfolio work, is often important for entry into Disney animation roles.

How to get an animation job at Disney?

To get an animation job at Disney, candidates typically need a strong portfolio demonstrating their artistic skills, proficiency in animation software like Maya or Adobe Creative Suite, and relevant education such as a degree in animation, fine arts, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level roles can also improve chances of employment at Disney's animation studios.
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Disney Animation jobs near you
Research Scientist

Research Scientist

Pixar Animation Studios

Emeryville, CA • On-site

$162K - $210K/yr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Conduct world-class research in computer graphics and AI to develop innovative solutions for Pixar and Disney film productions. This role bridges the gap between academic research and practical studio application.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Research & Innovation: Identify and solve complex graphics/AI problems; design, develop, and deploy scalable algorithms and prototype software.
  • Production Collaboration: Work directly with artists, technical directors, and engineers to address real-world production challenges under tight deadlines.
  • Leadership & Publication: Lead research projects, publish results in peer-reviewed journals (e.g., SIGGRAPH), and maintain Pixar's presence in the global research community.
  • Strategy: Stay current on emerging technologies and provide recommendations for studio adoption.

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Education: Ph.D. in Computer Science, AI, or a related field.
  • Experience: 2+ years of post-graduate research experience in academia or industry R&D.
  • Track Record: Sustained history of original research and publications in top-tier forums (ACM SIGGRAPH, CVPR, NeurIPS) and recognized leadership in the field.
  • Technical Skills: Deep expertise in at least one area of graphics/AI, solid coding skills, and the ability to analyze cutting-edge technologies.

SKILLS:
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills across diverse roles (artists to executives).
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks independently and within a team.
  • Strong presentation and technical writing capabilities.
  • Commitment to diverse perspectives and collaborative innovation.

The hiring range for this position in Emeryville is $162,945.00 to $210,870.00 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors.
Pixar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We know our storytelling is at its best when we include, celebrate and embrace difference. We strive to be a diverse workforce that is representative of our audiences, and where all can thrive and belong. We are committed to building a team that includes and respects a variety of voices, identities, backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Pixar participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

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