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Entry Level Animator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Jobtailor

Designer

San Diego, CA · On-site

... * Entry Level professional experience, including internships * Degree from an accredited ... and animations * Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint)

DGA

Designer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$80K - $94K/yr

... * Entry Level professional experience (including internships) * Degree from an accredited ... and animations, and fluency with Adobe Creative Suite * Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite ...

Adidev Technologies Inc

iOS Developer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

About the Role Adidev Technologies Inc. is actively hiring Entry-Level and Mid-Level iOS and ... Experience with Core Data, Core Animation, and Apple frameworks * Understanding of MVC and other ...

Youth Beat

Junior Producer Apprenticeship

Oakland, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Junior Producer Apprenticeship An entry-level position in video, photography, video editing, and ... animation. We teach media to middle school and high school students with the goal of keeping them ...

Youth Beat

Junior Producer Apprenticeship

Oakland, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Junior Producer Apprenticeship An entry-level position in video, photography, video editing, and ... animation. We teach media to middle school and high school students with the goal of keeping them ...

Blueprint Studios

Graphic Designer

Brisbane, CA · On-site

$70K - $76K/yr

Overall Summary of Function The Graphic Designer at Blueprint Studios is an entry-level creative ... animation experience ● Familiarity with AI image or video generation tools ● Interest in ...

Blueprint Studios

Graphic Designer

Brisbane, CA · On-site

$70K - $76K/yr

Overall Summary of Function The Graphic Designer at Blueprint Studios is an entry-level creative ... animation experience ● Familiarity with AI image or video generation tools ● Interest in ...

All JobsAnimator JobsEntry Level Animator JobsEntry Level Animator Jobs in California

Entry Level Animator information

See California salary details

$10

$38

$69

How much do entry level animator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level animator in California is $38.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.59 and $63.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level animator do?

An entry level animator typically creates basic animations and assists in developing visual content for films, TV shows, video games, or online media. Their responsibilities may include drawing storyboards, creating character movements, and rendering simple animation sequences under the supervision of senior animators. They often use animation software such as Adobe Animate or Blender, and may also help with editing and revising animations based on feedback. Entry level animators work closely with other team members to ensure that the final product meets project goals and deadlines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level animator?

To thrive as an Entry Level Animator, you need a solid understanding of animation principles, foundational drawing skills, and a relevant degree or coursework in animation or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as Adobe After Effects, Toon Boom, or Autodesk Maya is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong collaboration skills help you stand out in team-based production environments. These competencies ensure you can effectively contribute to high-quality animations and meet project deadlines in a competitive industry.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level animators when starting their first job?

Entry level animators often encounter challenges such as adapting to new animation software, meeting tight production deadlines, and balancing creative ideas with client or director guidelines. Collaborating with experienced team members and receiving constructive feedback can be both valuable and demanding as you develop your skills. It's important to communicate openly with your team, seek guidance when needed, and be open to learning new techniques to succeed in this fast-paced environment.

What is the difference between Entry Level Animator vs Junior Graphic Designer?

AspectEntry Level AnimatorJunior Graphic Designer
Required CredentialsDegree in Animation, Graphic Design, or related field; basic portfolioDegree in Graphic Design, Visual Arts, or related; basic portfolio
Work EnvironmentAnimation studios, media companies, advertising agenciesDesign firms, marketing departments, media companies
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in entertainment, advertising, gaming industriesUsed in branding, advertising, publishing industries
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both roles require a creative background and similar educational credentials, Entry Level Animators focus on creating animated content for various media, whereas Junior Graphic Designers primarily work on static visual designs. The work environments overlap but differ in the type of projects handled, with animators specializing in motion and visual storytelling, and graphic designers in branding and print or digital visuals.

How to get a job in animation with no experience?

Entry level animators can start by building a strong portfolio showcasing personal projects or school work, learning industry-standard tools like Adobe Animate or Blender. Gaining skills through online courses, internships, or freelance work can also improve employability, even without formal experience. Networking and applying to internships or junior roles are important steps in entering the animation field.

Is 30 too late to become an entry level animator?

Entry level animator roles are open to individuals of various ages, and starting at 30 is not too late. Success depends on developing relevant skills such as proficiency in animation software like Adobe After Effects or Blender, building a portfolio, and gaining experience through projects or courses. Many employers value skills and a strong portfolio over age, making it possible to start a career in animation at any age.

What can I do to get started as an entry level animator?

To start as an entry-level animator, develop foundational skills in animation software such as Adobe After Effects or Blender, and build a portfolio showcasing your work. Gaining knowledge of design principles, storytelling, and basic 3D or 2D animation techniques through online courses or tutorials can also improve your chances of entering the field.
More about Entry Level Animator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Animator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Animator jobs in California are:

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For Entry Level Animator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Animator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Animator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Animator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Animator job openings:

Entry Level Animator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Animator job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 73% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 60% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 35% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,900 per year, or $38.9 per hour.

Designer

San Diego, CA • On-site

Jobtailor
See more jobs at Jobtailorexternal

Other

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

  • Work from the designs of others under supervision
  • Perform routine and limited architectural assignments
  • Perform specific/limited portions of assignments using prescribed methods
  • Start to use judgement on work details with guidance
  • Work on assignments that may include higher-level work for training/development purposes
  • Assist in the preparation of architectural design and working drawings
  • Work on design sketches, layouts, details and graphic presentations
  • Participate in all phases of the design process, including programming, schematic design, design development, construction documentation, and construction administration
  • Contribute to real-world commercial architecture projects
  • Collaborate with the creative team and learn from experienced mentors
Requirements
  • 0–3 years of experience in commercial architecture
  • Entry Level professional experience, including internships
  • Degree from an accredited architectural program
  • Proficiency with Revit and other complex computer modeling software
  • Strong 3D visualization skills
  • Experience with AutoCAD, Dynamo and Grasshopper is a plus
  • Fluency with Adobe Creative Suite
  • Experience with real-time rendering engines (e.g., Enscape, Twin Motion, etc.) to generate still images and animations
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint)
  • Effective interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills
  • Strong organizational skills
  • On the path to architectural licensure
  • Unrestricted right to work in the United States
Core Competencies

Demonstrates proficiency in architectural design and working drawings, with strong skills in 3D visualization and computer modeling software. Capable of collaborating effectively within a creative team while contributing to commercial architecture projects.

Highest-signal resume keywords
  • Proficiency With Revit
  • Strong 3D Visualization Skills
  • Experience With AutoCAD
  • Fluency With Adobe Creative Suite
  • On The Path To Architectural Licensure
Hard Skills
  • Architectural Design
  • Working Drawings
  • Computer Modeling Software
  • Design Sketches
  • Construction Documentation
  • Real-Time Rendering Engines
  • Microsoft Office Suite
Soft Skills
  • Effective Interpersonal Skills
  • Verbal Communication Skills
  • Written Communication Skills
  • Strong Organizational Skills
Industry Keywords
  • Commercial Architecture
  • Entry Level Experience
  • Accredited Architectural Program
Tools & Technologies
  • Dynamo
  • Grasshopper
  • Enscape
  • Twin Motion
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