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Graduate Animator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

DePaul

Adjunct Faculty in Animation

Chicago, IL · On-site

The School of Cinematic Arts (SCA) offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs incluuding Film and Television, Animation, Creative Producing, Documentary, and Screenwriting on the Loop ...

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How much do graduate animator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate animator in the United States is $39.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.88 and $63.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Graduate Animator job?

A Graduate Animator is an entry-level role for recent graduates looking to start a career in animation. They typically assist in creating animations, storyboarding, and refining character movements under the guidance of senior animators. This role provides hands-on experience with industry-standard software and workflows while developing key skills in 2D or 3D animation. Graduate Animators often work in film, television, advertising, or gaming companies. It's a great opportunity to build a portfolio and gain industry exposure for future career growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Graduate Animator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graduate Animator, you need a solid understanding of animation fundamentals, creative storytelling, and a relevant degree or diploma in animation or a related field. Proficiency in industry-standard software such as Adobe After Effects, Maya, Blender, or Toon Boom is typically required, along with a strong portfolio demonstrating your work. Attention to detail, time management, and effective communication are key soft skills that help you excel in collaborative production environments. These abilities are crucial for producing high-quality animations, meeting project deadlines, and integrating feedback from clients and team members.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a Graduate Animator expect in their first role?

As a Graduate Animator, you can expect to work on a variety of tasks, such as creating character animations, developing storyboards, refining motion graphics, or assisting with visual effects for TV shows, commercials, games, or online content. Entry-level roles often involve collaborating closely with senior animators, designers, and other creative professionals to support larger projects and learn best practices. You may also participate in team meetings, present your ideas, and revise your work based on constructive feedback. This hands-on experience helps build your professional portfolio and deepens your understanding of industry workflows, positioning you for future career growth.
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Graduate Animator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Animator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $81,974 per year, or $39.4 per hour.
Adjunct Faculty in Animation

Adjunct Faculty in Animation

DePaul University

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 4 days ago

DePaul University rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

381st of 529 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
DePaul's Jarvis College of Computing & Digital Media (CDM) is located in the heart of Chicago's Loop, the central business district of Chicago. Our students represent many different experiences, perspectives, and cultures, and the university strives to recruit and sustain a faculty community where all backgrounds are valued and supported. Part-time teaching positions are available throughout the academic year, including summer sessions. Academic course schedules fluctuate from quarter to quarter, and the college will work with selected individuals to determine a quarterly schedule. Courses are not guaranteed, however the college does its best to give ample notice about available courses. Applicants with expertise that matches course scheduling needs will be contacted for an interview.
The School of Cinematic Arts (SCA) offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs incluuding Film and Television, Animation, Creative Producing, Documentary, and Screenwriting on the Loop campus and at DePaul Cinespace Studios. Find out more about SCA at https://www.cdm.depaul.edu/academics/Pages/School-of-Cinematic-Arts.aspx.
Qualifications
Minimum requirements include a master's degree in the discipline, or 18 semester/27 quarter hours of graduate work in the discipline, or an undergraduate degree with a minimum of five years demonstrated relevant professional experience. Exceptions may be considered with approval of the dean.
Application Instructions
The DePaul Animation Program is part of DePaul University's School of Cinematic Arts. We offer studies in hand-drawn animation (TVPaint and Harmony), Maya, game art, motion graphics, experimental animation, technical art, and stop motion animation. There are currently over 250 majors enrolled in our Animation MFA, MA, BFA and BA degrees, and we have 12 full-time Animation faculty members who have worked for studios including Walt Disney Animation Studios, Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, JibJab, Sesame Street, Klasky Csupo, and Will Vinton. To learn more about DePaul Animation check out our Animation Zine https://www.cdm.depaul.edu/AnimationZine
Considerations:
Exceptions to standard rates may apply to courses with unique credit hours, supervision, labs, clinical/practicum courses, coaching, administrative tasks, and courses that are either over-enrolled or under-enrolled.
General Compensation/Benefits Statement:
DePaul University has provided a compensation range that represents its good faith estimate of what the University may pay for the position at the time of posting. The salary offered to the selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the qualifications, education, experience, and training of the selected candidate, the scope and responsibilities of the position, departmental budget availability, internal salary equity considerations, and available market information.
DePaul University offers a variety of benefit options for qualified part-time employees. Further information regarding benefits can be found here: https://offices.depaul.edu/human-resources/benefits/part-time/Pages/default.aspx
About DePaul University's Academic Calendar:
Except for the College of Law, DePaul University operates on a quarter system. Classes in Autumn, Winter, and Spring quarters are 11 weeks in length (including finals week) and Summer courses, in two sessions, are typically 5 weeks in length. The College of Law operates on the semester system. Classes in the Fall and Spring semesters are 16 weeks in length (including finals week) and it offers a Summer Session of 7 weeks (including final exams).

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