1

Illustrator Animation Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Make illustrations for animation * Work closely with other illustrator on same project * Manage your time and meet deadlines * Great at collaborating with our animators * Create awesome storyboards ...

Make illustrations for animation * Work closely with other illustrator on same project * Manage your time and meet deadlines * Great at collaborating with our animators * Create awesome storyboards ...

Qualified candidate must be competent in compiling 2D/3D illustration sequences, video, web and mobile content development. 5+ years of experience in building interactive Flash animation and mobile ...

Qualified candidate must be competent in compiling 2D/3D illustration sequences, video, web and mobile content development. 5+ years of experience in building interactive Flash animation and mobile ...

Visual Effects Animation Artist

Santa Clara, CA

$80K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Formal education in Art, Digital Arts, 3D Modeling, Animation, Medical Illustration, or a related discipline is preferred. Equivalent professional experience and a strong portfolio demonstrating ...

Visual Effects Animation Artist

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Formal education in Art, Digital Arts, 3D Modeling, Animation, Medical Illustration, or a related discipline is preferred. Equivalent professional experience and a strong portfolio demonstrating ...

Visual Effects Animation Artist

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Formal education in Art, Digital Arts, 3D Modeling, Animation, Medical Illustration, or a related discipline is preferred. Equivalent professional experience and a strong portfolio demonstrating ...

... animation. * Strong communication skills in client-facing situations, including but not limited to, email, database. * Skills in one or more related disciplines - illustration, modeling, rigging ...

Product Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$140K - $210K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

A passion for building delightful user experiences with motion, illustration, animations, and high-quality interaction design. * Tenacity, pragmatism, and scrappiness - you value high degrees of ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Illustrator Animation information

What does an illustrator animator do?

An illustrator animator creates visual content by designing and drawing characters, environments, and objects, then bringing them to life through animation techniques. They combine their artistic skills with animation software to produce engaging sequences for films, games, advertisements, or digital media. This role often involves collaborating with writers, directors, and other artists to interpret ideas and deliver a cohesive visual story.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an illustrator animator?

To thrive as an Illustrator Animator, you need strong artistic ability, a solid understanding of visual storytelling, and proficiency in illustration and animation principles, often supported by a degree in animation, fine arts, or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects) and animation tools like Toon Boom or Blender is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills that help bring concepts to life and facilitate collaboration with clients and teams. These competencies ensure high-quality, engaging animations that effectively communicate ideas and meet project goals.

How do illustrator animation professionals typically collaborate with other team members during a project?

Illustrator Animation professionals often work closely with animators, art directors, and project managers to bring visual concepts to life. Collaboration usually involves regular meetings to discuss style guides, storyboards, and animation sequences. Effective communication and feedback are key, as illustrators may need to adjust artwork based on animation requirements or client input. This collaborative environment helps ensure that the final animated product is cohesive and aligns with the project’s creative vision.

What is the difference between Illustrator Animation vs Graphic Designer?

AspectIllustrator AnimationGraphic Designer
CredentialsTypically requires skills in illustration, animation software, and design principlesRequires skills in visual communication, layout, and design software
Work EnvironmentOften works in animation studios, media companies, or freelanceWorks in advertising agencies, corporate branding, or print/digital media
Industry UsageUsed for animated videos, character design, and multimedia projectsUsed for branding, marketing materials, and visual identity

Illustrator Animation focuses on creating animated visuals and characters, combining illustration skills with animation techniques. Graphic Designers primarily develop static visual content for branding, advertising, and print. While both roles require strong design skills, Illustrator Animation emphasizes motion and storytelling through animation, whereas Graphic Design centers on visual communication in static formats.

Are illustrators still in demand?

Illustrators are still in demand in various industries such as publishing, advertising, and digital media, especially those skilled in digital tools like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. The need for visual content continues to grow with the expansion of online platforms, though competition remains high and staying updated with current design trends is important.

Can an illustrator be an animator?

Yes, an illustrator can become an animator by learning animation techniques, software such as Adobe After Effects or Toon Boom, and gaining experience in motion graphics. Many professionals in animation start with illustration skills and expand their expertise to include movement and timing. Having a strong portfolio that demonstrates both static and animated work is beneficial for transitioning between these roles.

What is the salary of an illustrator animation?

The average salary for an illustrator animation professional ranges from $40,000 to $80,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and skill level. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced animators with specialized skills or working in high-demand markets can earn higher salaries.

What cities in California are hiring for Illustrator Animation jobs?

Cities in California with the most Illustrator Animation job openings:

Infographic showing various Illustrator Animation job openings in California 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 79% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Part-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Company Description
  • Able to work to a customer brief
  • Create brilliant characters
  • Take over new styles easily
  • Work toward a storyboard/ script
  • Illustrate/ create backdrops
  • Make illustrations for animation
  • Work closely with other illustrator on same project
  • Manage your time and meet deadlines
  • Great at collaborating with our animators
  • Create awesome storyboards (digital and pencil)
  • Able to maintain overview in complex situations
Job Description

Video is booming!

Less than 6 years ago, Video Lab was founded to help companies reach their goals through Video Marketing. Today, we're a team of ambitious video-superstars looking for collaborators as we are growing fast. Active across the United States, our goal is to become the Video Marketing leaders nationwide.

Some of our happy clients include UNICEF, Burton Snowboards, Hilton, The Boys & Girls Club, The Los Angeles Music Center, The Downtown Women's Center, Me Undies, Dell, Pizza Hut, and many more.

Qualifications
  • Highly motivated 
  • Detail-oriented
  • Stress resistant 
  • Independant
  • Original
  • Expert in flat design
  • Perfect knowledge of the Adobe Suite
  • God in storyboarding
  • Experience level: 1-3 years
  • Start-up minded (motivated, ambitious, self-regulated, fun!) 
  • "Let's do this" mentality
  • Excellent communication skills
Additional Information
  • Super eager crew
  • Fast growing international company
  • Creative office space in Los Angeles (sunlight all day long)
  • No BS, start-up management