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Entry Level Animator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Entry-Level Scenic & Event Designer Pulse Studio LLC is a design previsualization firm based in ... Set Design, Exhibit Design, Tradeshow Design, Product/Prototype Renderings, Animations, Interior ...

IOS Developer

Des Plaines, IL ยท On-site

$30 - $45/hr

... for entry-level and mid-level iOS developers with 1 year - to 3 years of experience. Must be a ... Core Animation, etc. Experience with Design Patterns such as MVC, MVVM, etc. Familiarity with ...

IOS Developer

Des Plaines, IL ยท On-site

$30 - $45/hr

... for entry-level and mid-level iOS developers with 1 year - to 3 years of experience. Must be a ... Core Animation, etc. Experience with Design Patterns such as MVC, MVVM, etc. Familiarity with ...

IOS Developer

Des Plaines, IL ยท On-site

$30 - $45/hr

... for entry-level and mid-level iOS developers with 1 year - to 3 years of experience. Must be a ... Core Animation, etc. Experience with Design Patterns such as MVC, MVVM, etc. Familiarity with ...

Creative Designer, Junior

Schaumburg, IL ยท On-site

$55K - $64K/yr

Bachelor's degree in graphic design or similar field. * Entry-level position; portfolio and / or ... Creative thinker with strong design skills, sense of timing for videos / animations, ability to ...

Creative Designer, Junior

Schaumburg, IL ยท On-site

$55K - $64K/yr

Bachelor's degree in graphic design or similar field. * Entry-level position; portfolio and / or ... Creative thinker with strong design skills, sense of timing for videos / animations, ability to ...

Entry Level Animator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$40

$72

How much do entry level animator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level animator in Chicago, IL is $40.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.55 and $65.87 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Animator jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Animator jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Animator jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Animator jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Animator jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level Animator jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Entry Level Animator job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Animator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 69% Physical, 10% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,426 per year, or $40.6 per hour.

Video & Animation Coordinator

Bartell Machinery Systems, LLC

Warrenville, IL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

The Company

Heico has a history of success. Since its founding over 40 years ago The Heico Companies has grown from a single business to over 78 separate companies through a strategic acquisition policy, and by reinvesting its earnings into internal growth and new prospects. Historically talented at restoring distressed companies, Heico now strategically targets acquisitions that will complement its ever-growing portfolio of companies in manufacturing, construction, and industrial services.

These four core operations are organized into groups: Metal Processing Group, Construction Solutions Group, Applied Solutions Group, and Industrial Technologies Group. Once acquired, new Heico companies are assigned to a group and run on a stand-alone basis, allowing for great independence as well as the opportunity to share knowledge about markets, production processes, and management practices across other Heico groups and companies. Each Group has its own corporate team.

Heico continues to seek out new opportunities and maintain its standard of success. The Heico Companies has remained a privately held company since its creation and maintains majority ownership in each of its operations, which generates more than $3.3 billion dollars in revenues. Many of our businesses are certified Woman-owned Business Enterprises (WBE).

More information about the holding company and overall organization can be found at www.heicocompanies.com.

The Position

The Video & Animation Coordinator is an entry-level marketing role designed for a creative individual who is passionate about video production, animation, and visual storytelling. This position will support the marketing team by creating engaging multimedia content while gaining hands-on exposure to broader marketing functions, including branding, employer branding, social media, digital marketing, internal communications, and content strategy.

Working within a holding company environment, the Video & Animation Coordinator will have the opportunity to support multiple businesses across a variety of industries, developing a diverse portfolio while learning how marketing initiatives drive business growth.

This is a full-time position based in our Warrenville office at 27501 Bella Vista Parkway, Warrenville, IL 60555.ย 

Job Description

Primary Responsibilities

  • Create and edit videos for marketing campaigns, internal communications, training programs, and company events.
  • Develop motion graphics, animated content, and visual assets for websites, presentations, social media, and digital communications.
  • Assist with on-location video content, including setup, filming, lighting, and audio support.
  • Edit raw footage into polished, brand-aligned content
  • Collaborate with marketing team members on campaigns, content creation, and brand-building initiatives
  • Assist in developing visual content for social media, email campaigns, websites, and promotional materials
  • Support employer branding efforts through employee spotlights, culture videos, and recruiting content
  • Clean up, optimize, and perform retopology on CAD geometry when needed for better performance and usability.
  • Create custom 3D models when CAD files or premade assets are unavailable, including modeling manufacturing equipment and machinery from reference.
  • Source and use premade 3D assets, materials, textures, and HDRIs when appropriate.
  • Help maintain brand consistency across all visual communications
  • Manage digital media assets and maintain organized content libraries
  • Adapt content for various audiences and communication channels
  • Learn marketing best practices, branding principles, content strategy, and audience engagement techniques
  • Gain exposure to campaign planning, analytics, and digital marketing initiatives
  • Develop an understanding of how marketing supports business growth across diverse industries
  • Continuously build technical and creative skills through coaching, collaboration, and training opportunities

Job Requirementsย ย ย ย 

Education

  • Bachelorโ€™s degree in Marketing, Communications, Digital Media, Animation, Graphic Design, Video Production, or a related field.

Skills & Relevant Work Experience

  • Internship, freelance, student portfolio, or 0-2 years of relevant experience.
  • Demonstrated interest in video production, animation, content creation, or digital media.
  • Familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite, Blender, Bonsai, FreeCAD
  • Basic understanding of animation, motion graphics, and video editing techniques.
  • Knowledge of social media platforms and digital content formats.
  • Photography, videography, or graphic design experience is a plus.
  • Creative mindset with a passion for visual storytelling.
  • Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn.
  • Positive attitude and eagerness to take on new challenges.
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
  • Curiosity about marketing, branding, and business strategy.

EOE M/F/D/V

The expected salary range for this position is $65,000-72,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.

This position is eligible for a comprehensive benefits package that includes, but isnโ€™t limited to:

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Life insurance and disability
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Pet Insurance
  • Legal Insurance
  • Paid time off and holidays