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Entry Level 2D Animation Artist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Animationclub

The ideal candidate has a strong eye for 80s/90s-inspired animation and illustration , with an ... Students will collaborate as a full production team, animators, artists, and composers, building ...

Booming Games

Technical Artist

Oregon, WI · On-site

$124K - $149K/yr

As a Technical Artist, you will work closely with the Art Lead and Product Owner to create visually ... Knowledge of Spine 2D animation * Knowledge of particle systems (Pixi) * Familiarity with HTML and ...

Cinnamon

Technical Artist (VFX / Shaders)

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$122K - $146K/yr

... animation studio's 2D styleMust Have QualificationsStrong shader development experience (HLSL / Unreal material graphs)A portfolio showing stylized, non-photorealistic rendering workAbility to work ...

Flying Bark Productions

3D Animation Lead

Denver, NC · On-site +1

The lead also coaches junior artists, collaborates with other departments, and supports production ... For over 50 years, our 2D and 3D production facility hascreated award-winning feature films and TV ...

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Entry Level 2D Animation Artist information

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How much do entry level 2d animation artist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level 2d animation artist in the United States is $24.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level 2D animation artist do?

An Entry Level 2D Animation Artist creates basic animations, illustrations, and visual assets for various media such as games, television, or online content. They typically work under the guidance of senior animators and collaborate with other artists to bring characters, backgrounds, and scenes to life. Their tasks often include drawing storyboards, cleaning up frames, creating simple motion sequences, and assisting with revisions based on feedback. This role is ideal for those looking to build foundational skills and gain experience in the field of animation.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level 2D animation artists in their first year on the job?

As an entry-level 2D animation artist, you might encounter challenges such as adapting to industry-standard software, meeting tight deadlines, and balancing creative input with project guidelines. Collaboration with other team members, such as storyboard artists and animators, is essential and can require strong communication skills. Additionally, learning to accept and implement feedback quickly is a key part of professional growth in this role. Overcoming these challenges can help you build a solid foundation for advancement within the animation industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level 2D animation artist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level 2D Animation Artist, you need a solid grasp of drawing fundamentals, animation principles, and a portfolio showcasing your creative abilities, usually supported by a degree or coursework in animation or a related field. Proficiency with industry-standard software such as Adobe Animate, Toon Boom Harmony, and Photoshop is typically expected. Strong communication, attention to detail, and openness to feedback help artists collaborate effectively and grow in their roles. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing professional animations that meet project requirements and contribute to a creative team environment.

What is the difference between Entry Level 2D Animation Artist vs Junior 2D Animator?

AspectEntry Level 2D Animation ArtistJunior 2D Animator
Required SkillsBasic drawing, software proficiency, understanding of animation principlesAdvanced animation techniques, storytelling, character development
Work EnvironmentAnimation studios, freelance projects, educational settingsProduction teams, media companies, advertising agencies
Typical ResponsibilitiesAssisting in animations, creating assets, learning workflowsCreating animations, refining scenes, collaborating with teams

The Entry Level 2D Animation Artist typically focuses on foundational skills and assisting in animation projects, often in educational or entry-level roles. A Junior 2D Animator has more experience, handles more complex animations, and contributes more directly to production. Both roles require similar certifications and work environments, but the Junior 2D Animator is expected to have a deeper understanding of animation techniques and storytelling.

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Entry Level 2D Animation Artist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level 2D Animation Artist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 52% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,263 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

2D Effects Artist (Temporary/Freelance)

Manhattan, NY • On-site

Skydance Media
See more jobs at Skydance Mediaexternal

$140K/yr

Other

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Skydance Animation is seeking a temporary freelance 2D Effects Animator to explore magical effects for an upcoming feature film. The effects created will help shape the film's visual tone and push its artistic language forward. While the focus will be primarily on magic, there will be additional work in water, fire, smoke, debris, and other elemental effects, all developed to align with the film's artistic aesthetic. You'll work closely with the Visual Development team and report to the Production Designer.

Demo reel or portfolio required, demonstrating a range of 2D effects work. Reels highlighting effects timing, physics, and integration with character performance are strongly preferred over technique reels alone.

Must be in one of the following locations: California, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, United Kingdom, or Spain.

Responsibilities
  • Design 2D effects, both hand-drawn and digitally composited, that elevate character performance and enhance the emotional weight and cinematic quality of every scene
  • Collaborate with the Production Designer, show leadership, and Visual Development artists to iterate on and develop magical effects
  • Brainstorm, define, and help establish the visual language for varying styles of magic across the film
  • Maintain consistency and nuance in effects style and timing across sequences, factoring in weight, physics, and elemental performance within a narrative context
  • Apply core animation principles to ensure fluid, believable motion and clear, readable silhouettes
  • Troubleshoot and problem-solve technical and creative effects challenges within pipeline constraints
Requirements
  • 1+ year of experience in 2D animation or visual development, with a focus on effects
  • Traditional 2D animation background
  • Proficiency in relevant animation/effects software (e.g., Photoshop, Nuke, After Effects, Toon Boom Harmony, TVPaint, or similar)
  • Strong grasp of timing, weight, and physics as applied to effects animation
  • Ability to take direction and iterate quickly
  • Creative mindset with the ability to conceptualize ideas and bring them to life

The compensation range for this non-exempt position in Los Angeles, CA or the Tri-State Area (New York, Connecticut, and New Jersey) is $115,00-140,000 annually. The rate offered may vary based on the candidate’s location, qualifications, experience and relevant expertise, among other factors. The range indicated is for base salary only and does not reflect the total compensation package, including bonus, benefits, etc.

This compensation range is not applicable to the United Kingdom and Spain.

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