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Entry Level 2D 3D Animation Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

The Mill

Designer/Animator

Chicago, IL

The role of The Mill Designer/Animator is to work with his or her fellow Designers, Senior ... 2D or 3D design. * Create, design and animate where necessary, in collaboration with others or ...

The Mill

Designer/Animator

Chicago, IL · On-site

The role of The Mill Designer/Animator is to work with his or her fellow Designers, Senior ... 2D or 3D design. * Create, design and animate where necessary, in collaboration with others or ...

PULSE STUDIO, LLC

Be Seen First

Entry Level Scenic & Event Designer / Production Artist 2026

Lisle, IL · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

We are looking for a strong 3D Designer to help us create stunning presentation visuals and digital ... Set Design, Exhibit Design, Tradeshow Design, Product/Prototype Renderings, Animations, Interior ...

Life Fitness

Mechanical Engineer I

Schaumburg, IL · Hybrid

$66K - $95K/yr

... (entry-level candidates encouraged to apply) * Strong proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks preferred) * Understanding of 2D drawing creation and drafting standards * Basic knowledge of ...

All Jobs2D 3D Animation JobsEntry Level 2D 3D Animation JobsEntry Level 2D 3D Animation Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level 2D 3D Animation information

What is an entry level 2D 3D animator?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level 2D 3D animator?

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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of 2D 3D Animation jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of 2D 3D Animation jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level 2D 3D Animation jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Entry Level 2D 3D Animation jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level 2D 3D Animation jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level 2D 3D Animation jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Entry Level 2D 3D Animation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level 2D 3D Animation job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Designer/Animator

Chicago, IL

The Mill
1 - 10 employees
Learn more about The Millexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Company Description

The Mill has been creating world-class visual effects built on creative excellence and cutting-edge technologies for over twenty-eight years. We believe in creating work that touches people emotionally, that becomes popular culture and that people love, talk about and want to share. We believe in great ideas beautifully told.

Job Description

We are currently looking for an experienced Designer/Animator to join our New York studio. 

The role of The Mill Designer/Animator is to work with his or her fellow Designers, Senior Designers, and fellow artists. A Designer/Animator needs to be highly visually creative with an excellent knowledge of design techniques and the software and hardware he or she operates. 

Requirements: 

  • Previous Design Studio experience preferred.  
  • Help provide artistic direction to generate inspirational, conceptual and creative ideas with the rest of the design team. 
  • Work with the CD and fellow designers to conceptualize based on design briefs, execute the work, be it illustration, 2D or 3D design. 
  • Create, design and animate where necessary, in collaboration with others or individually to suit the task at hand. 
  • Be involved throughout the project, ensuring a reliable contact with clients and the team to deliver results that meets and exceeds expectations. 
  • Present concepts and design ideas to the Mill team, listening to feedback and making recommendations where appropriate. 
  • Ability to work efficiently, handling a vast variety of problems at the same time.  
  • Experience preparing presentations with strict deadlines. 
  • Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite - InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, Bridge. 
  • Proficient in After Effects and C4D. 
  • Detail Oriented, proactive & organized. 
  • Communicates well with others, remains calm under pressure. 
  • Experience with AR a plus (AR Studio, Lens Studio) 
Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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