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Hand Drawn Animation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

DePaul

Adjunct Faculty in Animation

Chicago, IL · On-site

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 ...

Virgin Hotels

Junior Graphic Designer

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$19.50 - $26/hr

Basic familiarity with motion, animation, or video tools (After Effects, Premiere) * Illustration or hand-drawn design skills * Interest in hospitality, entertainment, lifestyle, or experiential ...

NBCUniversal

Manager, Design - GRE

Los Angeles, CA

... DreamWorks Animation, and Focus Features, and the four global television studios under the ... Create computer and hand-drawn presentation materials for the Design team * Research and collect ...

NBCUniversal

Manager, Design - GRE

Universal City, CA · On-site

... DreamWorks Animation, and Focus Features, and the four global television studios under the ... Create computer and hand-drawn presentation materials for the Design team * Research and collect ...

Anthropic

Art Director, Enterprise

San Francisco, CA

$142K - $149K/yr

We care about craft, making things by hand and using AI when it makes sense. The team is growing ... Direct photo and video shoots, working with directors, photographers, illustrators, animators, and ...

Anthropic

Art Director, Enterprise

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$305K - $385K/yr

We care about craft, making things by hand and using AI when it makes sense. The team is growing ... Direct photo and video shoots, working with directors, photographers, illustrators, animators, and ...

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Hand Drawn Animation information

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$10

$17

$24

How much do hand drawn animation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for hand drawn animation in the United States is $17.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Will AI replace animators?

AI can assist hand drawn animators by automating repetitive tasks and enhancing productivity, but it is unlikely to fully replace skilled animators who bring creativity, artistic judgment, and storytelling to their work. Human expertise remains essential for producing nuanced and expressive animations that require artistic vision. Animators who adapt by learning new tools and techniques can continue to thrive in an evolving industry environment.

Is 25 too late to learn animation?

Hand drawn animation is a skill that can be learned at any age, including at 25. Many successful animators start learning later in life, and developing skills in drawing, storytelling, and software tools like Adobe Animate or Toon Boom can lead to opportunities in the industry regardless of age.

What are the typical collaboration dynamics between hand drawn animators and other creative team members during a production?

Hand drawn animators regularly work closely with storyboard artists, character designers, clean-up artists, and directors throughout the animation process. Collaboration often involves interpreting storyboards, refining character movements, and incorporating feedback to ensure consistency with the project's style and vision. Effective communication and openness to critique are key, as animators frequently participate in team meetings, review sessions, and iterative revisions. This collaborative environment helps maintain creative alignment and produces a cohesive final product.

What is hand drawn animation?

Hand drawn animation, also known as traditional animation or cel animation, is a technique in which each frame of the animation is drawn by hand. Artists create a sequence of images, each slightly different from the last, to simulate movement when played in rapid succession. This method was widely used in classic animated films and requires considerable artistic skill and attention to detail. While digital tools have become more common, hand drawn animation remains valued for its unique look and expressive qualities.

Does Disney still hire 2D animators?

Disney has significantly reduced its production of traditional 2D animation but still hires 2D animators for specialized projects and legacy work. Most new animation work at Disney focuses on 3D computer-generated imagery (CGI), though some roles for 2D animation remain in certain departments or for specific projects requiring traditional skills.

What is the difference between Hand Drawn Animation vs 2D Digital Animator?

AspectHand Drawn Animation2D Digital Animator
CredentialsDrawing skills, animation coursesAnimation software proficiency, digital art skills
Work EnvironmentTraditional studios, freelanceDigital studios, remote work
Industry UsageAnimation, film, TV, commercialsAnimation, gaming, advertising

Hand Drawn Animation involves creating frames manually on paper or tablets, emphasizing traditional artistry. 2D Digital Animators use software to produce animations digitally, often building upon hand-drawn techniques but with more efficiency and flexibility. Both roles require strong artistic skills, but differ mainly in tools and workflow. Understanding these differences helps employers and artists choose the right path for their projects and careers.

What job can I get working in animation if I can't draw?

In animation, roles such as storyboard artist, character designer, or animator often do not require advanced drawing skills, focusing instead on visual storytelling, concept development, or using digital tools like Adobe Animate or Toon Boom. These positions may emphasize skills in composition, timing, and software proficiency rather than freehand drawing ability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Hand Drawn Animator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hand Drawn Animator, you need a strong foundation in traditional drawing techniques, an understanding of animation principles, and often a degree or training in animation or fine arts. Familiarity with animation software such as Toon Boom Harmony, Adobe Animate, or TVPaint is commonly required, along with a robust portfolio showcasing your work. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help animators bring characters and stories to life while effectively collaborating with teams. These abilities ensure that animations are visually compelling, professionally executed, and resonate with audiences.
Infographic showing various Hand Drawn Animation job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 98% Full Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,173 per year, or $17.4 per hour.
Adjunct Faculty in Animation

Adjunct Faculty in Animation

DePaul University

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 21 days ago

DePaul University rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

388th of 537 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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