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Freelance 2D Animation Artist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Artist Principal Lead

Chicago, IL

$130K - $156K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Graphic Arts, 2D Animation, Motion Graphics, or similar discipline preferred or a combination of education and equivalent work experience in a related field. Job Knowledge ...

... seeking a talented 2D Roblox Artist excited to support the visual development of our Roblox ... This is an hourly freelance position, with expected availability Monday through Friday during core ...

Roblox 2D Artist

Los Angeles, CA · Remote

$20 - $50/hr

... seeking a talented 2D Roblox Artist excited to support the visual development of our Roblox ... This is an hourly freelance position, with expected availability Monday through Friday during core ...

Roblox 2D Artist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

$20 - $50/hr

... seeking a talented 2D Roblox Artist excited to support the visual development of our Roblox ... This is an hourly freelance position, with expected availability Monday through Friday during core ...

As a Freelance Daily Artist, you are responsible for producing creative and visually compelling ... or animation packages WHAT YOU WILL NEED * Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design/Communication ...

Senior Motion Designer (Remote)

New York, NY · Remote

$116K - $132K/yr

Freelance Senior Motion Graphics Designer (2D) We are looking for a Senior 2D Motion Specialist to ... This contract role suits a self-directed artist who takes complete ownership of deliverables ...

New

... VR, animation, and emerging AI-assisted creative tools. You will collaborate with industrial ... Create 2D assets for presentations, videos, 3D renderings, marketing materials, and digital ...

NY · On-site

$58.73 - $82.22/hr

Work with animators and developers to help bring your art to life/motion. Requirements * Cleared to ... 2D artist or equivalent, in collaboration with other technical and non-technical disciplines.

... VR, animation, and emerging AI-assisted creative tools. You will collaborate with industrial ... Create 2D assets for presentations, videos, 3D renderings, marketing materials, and digital ...

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Freelance 2D Animation Artist information

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$9

$22

$68

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

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance 2d animation artist in the United States is $22.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance 2D animation artist?

Freelance 2D Animation Artists are creative professionals who design and animate two-dimensional visuals for various media, such as films, television shows, video games, advertisements, and web content. Unlike full-time employees, freelancers work independently and are hired on a project-by-project basis by studios, agencies, or individual clients. They use specialized software to create character movements, backgrounds, and effects, bringing stories and concepts to life. Freelancers must manage their own schedules, client communications, and business operations, making the role both artistic and entrepreneurial.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a freelance 2D animation artist?

To thrive as a Freelance 2D Animation Artist, you need strong drawing abilities, a solid understanding of animation principles, and a portfolio showcasing your work. Proficiency in industry-standard software like Adobe Animate, Toon Boom Harmony, or After Effects is typically required. Creativity, time management, and effective communication with clients are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure the delivery of high-quality, engaging animations that meet client expectations and deadlines in a competitive freelance market.

How do freelance 2D animation artists typically manage client communication and project feedback?

As a freelance 2D animation artist, effective client communication is crucial for project success. Most artists use project management tools, video calls, and regular email updates to keep clients informed and gather feedback at key milestones. Establishing clear timelines, deliverables, and revision policies helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures the project stays on track. Proactively seeking feedback and being open to constructive criticism are essential skills, as they lead to stronger client relationships and higher-quality work.

What is the difference between Freelance 2D Animation Artist vs Freelance Motion Designer?

AspectFreelance 2D Animation ArtistFreelance Motion Designer
Skills & Tools2D animation, illustration, Adobe After Effects, PhotoshopAnimation, graphic design, After Effects, Cinema 4D
Work EnvironmentFreelance, remote, client projectsFreelance, remote, multimedia projects
Industry UsageAnimation studios, advertising, entertainmentAdvertising, branding, digital media
CredentialsPortfolio, animation skills, software proficiencyPortfolio, motion design skills, software proficiency

Both roles involve digital animation and require strong portfolios. A Freelance 2D Animation Artist focuses primarily on creating traditional 2D animations and illustrations, while a Freelance Motion Designer combines animation with graphic design to produce engaging multimedia content. The choice depends on your specific skill set and project interests.

How much do freelance 2D animation artists make?

Freelance 2D animation artists typically earn between $20 and $75 per hour, depending on experience, skill level, and project complexity. Many freelancers set project-based rates, with average project fees ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Earnings can vary widely based on client demand, portfolio quality, and the ability to negotiate rates.

How to get hired as a freelance 2D animation artist?

To get hired as a freelance 2D animation artist, build a strong portfolio showcasing your best work, develop skills in industry-standard software like Adobe Animate or Toon Boom, and establish an online presence on platforms such as Behance or ArtStation. Networking, consistent self-promotion, and understanding client needs also increase your chances of securing freelance projects.

Is a Freelance 2D Animation Artist still in demand?

Freelance 2D Animation Artists remain in demand due to the ongoing need for animated content in advertising, entertainment, and online media. Success often depends on skills in software like Adobe Animate or Toon Boom, a strong portfolio, and the ability to work remotely for diverse clients.
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The top searched job categories for Freelance 2D Animation Artist jobs are:

Infographic showing various Freelance 2D Animation Artist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 44% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,772 per year, or $23 per hour.

Artist Principal Lead

IGT

Chicago, IL

$130K - $156K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


IGT rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

251st of 499 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

IGT, where innovation meets entertainment on a global scale!  From the casino floor to your mobile screen, we deliver thrilling, responsible, and unforgettable gaming experiences-powered by worldclass content, strong technical and commercial capabilities and nurtured by a culture of collaboration, accountability, and ownership.

 

Whether it's spinning reels, placing bets, or enabling secure payments, we turn innovation into impact through disciplined execution and longterm value creation. With a team of over 6,000 employees across 30+ countries and products delivered in more than 100 jurisdictions worldwide, we operate at scale while staying closely connected to customers we serve. If you're ready to bring your talent to a team shaping the future of entertainment, your next big move starts here - www.igt.com.

Responsibilities

Exercises discretion and independent judgement overseeing and directing all aspects of assigned projects, including art, layout design, product design, art production, art prototyping, logos, typography, concepting, character development, and animation.
Customarily and regularly establishes the art development and production goals and objectives for assigned projects; commits to project timelines, key development milestones, and costs.
Manages collaboration with cross-functional teams and leadership in determining deliverables and schedules.
Customarily and regularly manages escalated problems and research creative solutions.
Responsible for creating digital art and assets that can be shared in a team environment.
Exercise discretion and independent judgment setting and communicating the creative direction, accounting for Company, regulatory, and customer requirements.
Thoroughly reviews art and approves concepts; facilitates and prioritizes responses to feedback, adjusts art direction and operating plans in response to findings.
Responsible for identifying and implementing feedback to enhance products while meeting deadlines.
Prepares or oversees the preparation of project staffing estimates and manages project status and skills requirements throughout, ensuring appropriate resource levels and mix of competencies among staff.
Serves as a subject matter expert to internal teams, sharing industry best practices and tools.
Actively works to gain a deeper understanding of internal products and stays abreast of industry best practices and trends.
Customarily and regularly works on complex problems and provides creative solutions that can be implemented across departments.
Customarily and regularly coordinates and assigns team member responsibilities and goals, while supporting a collaborative, open, and supportive work environment.
Customarily and regularly directs the work and manages the personal issues of direct report employees including recruiting, hiring, training, scheduling, evaluating, coaching, and developing staff; recommends or initiates promotions, transfers, and disciplinary action.
Responsible for developing internal trainings.
Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education / Certification:
Bachelor's Degree in Graphic Arts, 2D Animation, Motion Graphics, or similar discipline preferred or a combination of education and equivalent work experience in a related field.
Job Knowledge / Minimum Work Experience:
8-12 years' industry experience and project experience in 2D illustration, graphic design, 3D, and/or generalist skills desirable.
Extensive knowledge of file organization and etiquette.
Possesses an advanced 2D and/or 3D portfolio demonstrating a wide range of styles and attention to detail.
Knowledge of advanced animation principles, fundamentals, and techniques.
Possesses understanding of 3D modeling, texturing, rigging, and animation.
Demonstrated ability to convert art and development trends into actionable directives.
Demonstrated thorough knowledge of industry product design with advanced understanding of user psychology and product mechanics.
Advanced knowledge of product development technology, including delivery structures and optimization.
Demonstrated success leading projects and processes.
Demonstrated problem solving ability, solving for complex issues, and maintaining stakeholder vision.
Proven success leading and supervising diverse teams. Computer / Technical Skills:
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
Advanced proficiency with asset management and tools.
Substantial knowledge of product management practices.
Advanced Adobe product skills with an emphasis on Photoshop, After Effects, and Illustrator.
Demonstrated a wide range of traditional art skills, including drawing, painting, composition, typography, graphic design, UX, and animation.

Keys to Success

 Building collaborative relationships
Decision making
Drive results
Foster innovation
Personal energy
Self-leadership

IGT is committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace that reflects the global communities and customers we serve. We strive to create an environment where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered.

 IGT is an equal opportunity employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. This commitment applies to all employment practices, including recruitment, hiring, promotion, compensation, benefits, training, and termination.

 We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.


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About IGT

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

IGTis a global leader in gaming. We deliver entertaining and responsible gaming experiences for players across all channels and regulated segments, from Lotteries and Gaming Machines to Sports Betting and Digital. Leveraging a wealth of compelling content, substantial investment in innovation, player insights, operational expertise, and leading-edge technology, our solutions deliver unrivaled gaming experiences that engage players and drive growth. We have a well-established local presence and relationships with governments and regulators in more than 100 countries around the world, and create value by adhering to the highest standards of service, integrity, and responsibility.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

London, Greater London, GB

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