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Entry Level 2D 3D Animation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

3D Animation Lead

Denver, NC ยท On-site +1

The 3D Animation Lead role involves managing and guiding a team of animators on a show, acting as ... For over 50 years, our 2D and 3D production facility hascreated award-winning feature films and TV ...

The 3D Animation Lead role involves managing and guiding a team of animators on a show, acting as ... For over 50 years, our 2D and 3D production facility hascreated award-winning feature films and TV ...

This entry-level role is ideal for a designer who bridges the gap between traditional 2D design and ... Create engaging 3D motion graphics and animations for digital platforms, social media, and video ...

Presentation Designer

Ossining, NY ยท On-site

$30 - $45/hr

PowerPoint, Photoshop, Illustrator. 2D and 3D animation software a plus. We offer competitive compensation, Medical, dental and vision, retirement benefits, disability insurance, flexible schedule ...

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Entry Level 2D 3D Animation information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level 2D/3D Animator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level 2D/3D Animator, you need a solid understanding of animation principles, basic art and design skills, and a portfolio showcasing your work, often supported by a degree or coursework in animation, graphic design, or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite (After Effects, Photoshop), Autodesk Maya, Blender, or Cinema 4D is typically expected. Creativity, attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to take feedback are key soft skills that help animators succeed in collaborative environments. These skills and qualities are essential for producing high-quality animations that meet project goals and client expectations.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry-level 2D/3D animators in a studio environment?

Entry-level 2D/3D animators often encounter challenges like adapting to fast-paced project timelines and learning to use complex animation software efficiently. Another common hurdle is integrating feedback from multiple team members, such as directors, senior animators, and clients, while maintaining creative consistency. Balancing technical precision with artistic vision can also be demanding, especially when working on collaborative projects with tight deadlines. However, these challenges are excellent opportunities to develop problem-solving skills and grow as a professional animator.

What are Entry Level 2D 3D Animators?

Entry Level 2D 3D Animators are professionals who create moving images and visual effects using computer software, often for films, television, video games, or advertisements. They typically work on basic animation tasks, such as modeling, rigging, and animating characters or objects, under the supervision of more experienced animators. These roles are ideal for individuals who are just starting their careers in animation and offer opportunities to develop technical skills and build a professional portfolio.

What is the difference between Entry Level 2D 3D Animation vs Entry Level Graphic Designer?

AspectEntry Level 2D 3D AnimationEntry Level Graphic Designer
Required SkillsBasic animation, software proficiency (After Effects, Maya)Design principles, Adobe Photoshop/Illustrator
Work EnvironmentAnimation studios, media companiesAdvertising agencies, print/digital media
Industry UsageFilm, gaming, advertisingMarketing, branding, publishing

Both roles often require proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite; however, Entry Level 2D 3D Animation focuses on creating animated content using specialized software, while Entry Level Graphic Designer emphasizes static visual design. The choice depends on whether you prefer working with motion graphics and 3D models or static visuals and branding projects.

More about Entry Level 2D 3D Animation jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level 2D 3D Animation jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level 2D 3D Animation job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of 2D 3D Animation jobs? The most popular types of 2D 3D Animation jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level 2D 3D Animation jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level 2D 3D Animation jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level 2D 3D Animation job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.
Assistant Professor of Animation

Assistant Professor of Animation

Champlain College Incorporated

Burlington, VT โ€ข On-site

$64K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Job Description
Champlain College seeks a highly experienced animation artist-educator to join our faculty as an Assistant Professor within the BFA in Animation. The successful candidate will teach a wide range of courses related to 2D and 3D animation, bringing extensive industry experience and deep expertise in animation production workflows.
As an entrepreneurial, market-driven institution, Champlain's academic programs respond to industry dynamics. The College particularly values industry and practical experience for its faculty. We are seeking a collaborative faculty member capable of teaching introductory to advanced animation courses while contributing to interdisciplinary partnerships across other majors.
Faculty members develop industry connections, mentor students, and contribute to Champlain College's creative community through service activities supporting the program and the College's mission. Central to this role is a genuine commitment to fostering a thriving animation community, one where students of all backgrounds feel welcome, supported, and inspired to grow alongside one another..
Key Responsibilities
Teaching & Curriculum Development
  • Deliver four courses per semester across the animation pipeline, from foundational principles through advanced performance and experimental techniques
  • Develop and refine rigorous, industry-informed curriculum covering areas such as 2D and 3D Animation fundamentals, 2D & 3D Character Animation and Performance, 2D & 3D Body Mechanics, Concept Art, VFX and real time Animation, Experimental and Stop Motion Animation, Figure Drawing, Cinematography, and Advanced Seminars
  • Apply a strong command of visual storytelling and cinematography to help students understand not just how to animate, but how to direct the eye, build tension, and tell a story through composition, camera, and movement
  • Integrate contemporary techniques, hybrid workflows, and emerging technologies into course content
  • Design hands-on learning experiences that translate theory into professional practice

Student Mentorship & Development
  • Actively nurture an inclusive animation community within the program, fostering a culture where students of all backgrounds feel welcome, engaged, and supported, and where every animator has a voice, a place, and peers to grow alongside
  • Advise students and provide individualized mentorship in animation professional development and career guidance
  • Teach and advise students while creating a classroom environment where diverse learning styles are embraced, every student feels seen, and the space itself becomes a place of creative confidence and belonging
  • Supervise student teams and interdisciplinary animation projects
  • Help students navigate the transition from college to industry through portfolio development and professional practice

Professional Engagement & Service
  • Maintain active connections with the animation and visual effects industry, whether through freelance work, professional networks, festival involvement, or ongoing personal projects
  • Stay current with evolving industry trends, tools, and techniques, bringing a genuine eagerness to keep learning and carry that energy back into the classroom
  • Serve on college committees and collaborate with faculty across disciplines
  • Contribute to program assessment, recruitment, and outreach initiatives

Requirements
  • MFA in Animation, Computer Animation, or related field preferred; consideration given to candidates with a bachelor's degree plus significant animation/visual effects industry experience
  • Professional-level expertise in one or more of the following areas: 2D Animation, 3D Animation, 3D Modeling/Texturing/Lighting, Compositing, Visual Effects, Virtual Production, and Visual Storytelling
  • Proficiency in cinematography and visual compositing workflows
  • Comprehensive knowledge of animation and film production pipelines across all stages
  • Technical proficiency in relevant industry-standard tools such as Toon Boom Harmony, Autodesk Maya, Houdini, Blender, Adobe Creative Suite, Unreal Engine, ZBrush, Nuke, or similar platforms
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective student mentoring
  • College-level teaching experience preferred

Working Arrangements
  • Full-time, in-person position based at our main campus in Burlington, Vermont
  • Comfortable office environment with access to campus resources
  • Occasional evening or weekend commitments for special events or student activities
  • Participation in faculty meetings, professional development, and academic ceremonies

Compensation & Benefits
  • Annual Salary: $64,000 - $75,000
  • Comprehensive Benefits Package:
    • Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance with HSA and FSA options
    • Paid Time Off: 16 holidays, summer and school breaks, plus 2 weeks sick time and 2 days of personal leave
    • Retirement: 403(b) plan with 3% employer matching contribution
    • Education: Tuition benefits for employees and family members
    • Wellness: Gym discount and Wellness programs with up to $300 annual incentives
    • Welfare: Short-term and long-term disability coverage, plus life insurance
    • Other Perks: Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with counseling services, access to employee discounts and local/national benefit programs

Application Instructions
To apply, please follow the link below and submit the following application materials:
  • Resume/CV
  • Cover Letter addressing the desired qualifications and how your experiences contribute to the academic excellence and inclusive community at Champlain College
  • Statement of Teaching Philosophy
  • A link to your portfolio/demo reel
  • A portfolio of teaching and student work (if available)

Please use the Link field on the application to submit your portfolio/demo reel. Your Statement of Teaching Philosophy and any additional materials can be uploaded using the Other Documents section of the application.
The College seeks candidates who can enhance its mission through their work, life experiences, service, teaching, or research. Please include specific examples of how you would contribute to these efforts in your Cover Letter. We will consider applications on a rolling basis.
To streamline our hiring process and ensure fairness for all candidates, we manage all recruitment communications through our online application system. Please do not call regarding your application status. We'll reach out directly if we'd like to schedule an interview.
The successful completion of a criminal background check is required as a condition of employment.
Champlain College does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, place of birth, ancestry, religion, age, sexual orientation, sex, gender identity, veteran or military service status, HIV -positive status, qualified disability, or on the basis of any other status protected by law, and does not discriminate in the administration of its education and admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, employment practices or co-curricular and other College-administered programs. Champlain College will make reasonable accommodations for otherwise qualified students, applicants for admission or employment, or employees.
Champlain College is committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming community. We believe that bringing together individuals with different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences enriches education and strengthens our community. At Champlain, all members are valued as individuals and respected for their unique contributions.
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About Us
Founded in 1878, Champlain College is a small, private, not-for-profit college in Burlington, Vermont overlooking Lake Champlain and the Adirondack mountains. Its career-driven approach to higher education prepares students for professional life from their very first semester. For the fifth year in a row, Champlain was named a "Most Innovative School" in the North by U.S. News & World Report's "America's Best Colleges" 2020 regional rankings and ranked #9 on The Princeton Review's "2025 Top Schools for Game Design."