Designer
Boston, MA · Remote
$60K - $80K/yr
... and animation practice, and the curiosity to thrive in a fast-paced startup environment where you'll often own projects end-to-end. While this is an entry-level position, you will have ownership ...
Designer
Boston, MA · Remote
$60K - $80K/yr
... and animation practice, and the curiosity to thrive in a fast-paced startup environment where you'll often own projects end-to-end. While this is an entry-level position, you will have ownership ...
Entry Level Animator information
See Natick, MA salary details
$16.18 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$10.92 - $16.51
27% of jobs
$16.51 - $22.11
0% of jobs
$22.11 - $27.70
19% of jobs
The median wage is $29.43 / hr.
$27.70 - $33.30
14% of jobs
$33.30 - $38.89
4% of jobs
$38.89 - $44.49
0% of jobs
$44.49 - $50.08
0% of jobs
$50.08 - $55.68
0% of jobs
$61.02 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$55.68 - $61.27
12% of jobs
$61.27 - $66.87
6% of jobs
$66.87 - $72.46
18% of jobs
$10
$40
$72
How much do entry level animator jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level animator in Natick, MA is $40.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.60 and $66.01 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?
| Aspect | Entry Level Animator | Junior Graphic Designer |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | Degree in Animation, Graphic Design, or related field; basic portfolio | Degree in Graphic Design, Visual Arts, or related; basic portfolio |
| Work Environment | Animation studios, media companies, advertising agencies | Design firms, marketing departments, media companies |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Used in entertainment, advertising, gaming industries | Used in branding, advertising, publishing industries |
| Common Search & Comparison | Yes | Yes |
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 cities near Natick, MA are hiring for Entry Level Animator jobs?
Cities near Natick, MA with the most Entry Level Animator job openings:
Designer
Boston, MA • Remote
Newton Research
$60K - $80K/yr
Full-time
Re-posted 2 days ago
Job description
Company Description
Newton Research is a fast-growing software start-up founded by repeat entrepreneurs and well-funded by blue chip venture capital firms. We build products that leverage AI agents to handle complex marketing analytics workflows for our customers and partners.
Role DescriptionThe Designer will be a core contributor to how Newton Research looks and sounds across every surface - from our website and product marketing to social content and sales collateral. You'll work closely with our marketing and go-to-market teams to bring campaigns to life visually, maintain brand consistency, and create assets that communicate complex ideas simply and compellingly.
This is a generalist design role with a creative edge. We're looking for someone with a strong foundation in brand and digital design, a growing motion and animation practice, and the curiosity to thrive in a fast-paced startup environment where you'll often own projects end-to-end. While this is an entry-level position, you will have ownership - you'll have real impact from day one and a clear path to grow as Newton scales.
ResponsibilitiesDesign & Production- Create marketing assets across a range of formats: landing pages, email templates, digital ads, social graphics, decks, and one-pagers.
- Develop and maintain brand standards, ensuring visual consistency across all customer-facing and internal materials.
- Produce motion graphics and animations for social, product demos, and campaign content.
- Support the design of web pages and digital experiences in close collaboration with the marketing team.
- Partner with marketing, growth, and go-to-market teams to translate briefs into polished, on-brand visuals.
- Manage multiple concurrent projects and deliver work on deadline without sacrificing quality.
- Give and receive feedback constructively, iterating quickly based on input from stakeholders.
- 1-3 years of experience in design, with a portfolio that demonstrates range across brand, digital, and motion work.
- Proficiency in Figma; experience with Canva and Adobe Creative Suite (After Effects, Illustrator, Photoshop) a strong plus.
- A strong eye for typography, layout, and color - with the ability to execute quickly while maintaining craft.
- Motion and animation skills, even if still developing - we care more about momentum than polish at this stage.
- Comfort working independently in a remote-first environment with minimal hand-holding.
- Strong communicator who can articulate design decisions and incorporate feedback effectively.
- Experience in B2B SaaS, adtech, or marketing technology is a bonus, not a requirement.
Base Salary Range: $60,000-$80,000