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Illustrator Animation Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Architect

Detroit, MI · On-site

$90 - $150/hr

Utilize a diverse skill set across multiple media platforms, including illustration, computer-generated renderings, animations, and motion graphics for visual communication. Project Design and ...

Art Director (Remote - Michigan)

Kalamazoo, MI · Remote

$114K - $120K/yr

Motion design including 2D and 3D animations * Video concept development, storyboards and editing ... Mastery of Adobe Creative Cloud design apps (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, XD, AfterEffects ...

Art Director (Remote - Michigan)

Kalamazoo, MI · Remote

$114K - $120K/yr

Motion design including 2D and 3D animations * Video concept development, storyboards and editing ... Mastery of Adobe Creative Cloud design apps (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, XD, AfterEffects ...

Showing results 41-49

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 job categories do people searching Illustrator Animation jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Illustrator Animation jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Illustrator Animation jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Illustrator Animation job openings:

Infographic showing various Illustrator Animation job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution.

Industrial Design Architecture & Experience Lead Designer-Warren, Michigan

General Motors

Allen Park, MI

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


General Motors rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

General Motors

Based on 308 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Automakers average

Based on 6,322 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Description
At GM Design's Global Design Center in Warren, Michigan, the Lead Architecture and Experience Designer will be at the heart of a highly creative, collaborative studio, leading innovative projects across GM's global portfolio. In this role, you will drive the conceptualization, visualization, and development of corporate environments and branded experiences that are distinctly on-brand to GM. You will create design visions and lead the execution of spaces and their details-including interior architecture, finishes, furniture, fixtures, and environmental graphics-that showcase and reveal GM vehicles and products. You will work across exhibits, environments, and other immersive brand touchpoints that bring GM's product and brand stories to life for employees, partners, and guests. This is a highly visible role with the opportunity to influence how GM shows up physically around the world.
What You'll Do -
  • Lead the end-to-end conceptualization, visualization, and development of corporate environments and branded experiences that align with GM's brand and product strategy.

  • Design spaces and spatial details-including interior architecture, finishes, furniture, fixtures, and environmental graphics-that showcase and reveal GM vehicles and products across global programs.

  • Partner closely with GM Design, Marketing, Facilities, Fabrication and Prototyping, and external suppliers/creative agencies to ensure cohesive, on-brand experiences.

  • Use 2D and 3D digital tools, physical models, mockups, and visualization technologies to explore, communicate, and refine design concepts.

  • Collaborate with product design, sculpting, engineering, and fabrication teams to integrate vehicles and products seamlessly into spatial experiences.

  • Oversee the execution of installations, tracking design intent through documentation, vendor coordination, and on-site reviews to deliver high-quality outcomes on time and on budget.

  • Manage multiple complex projects simultaneously, setting creative direction, guiding junior team members, and presenting concepts and recommendations to cross-functional and senior stakeholders.

Your Skills & Abilities (Required Qualifications)
  • (Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Interior Design, Industrial Design, Environmental Design, or a closely related field; master's degree preferred.

  • 7+ years of professional experience in architecture, interior, experiential, or environmental design, with a strong portfolio of high-impact, built or realized work.

  • Demonstrated ability to translate brand and product strategy into compelling spatial experiences, ideally across multiple global markets.

  • Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop) for visualizations, storytelling, and executive-ready presentations.

  • Proficiency in 3D design and visualization tools such as Rhino and Enscape (or similar) for spatial concepting, real-time visualization, and design reviews.

  • Experience using AI-based tools for concept development, visualization, and animation to communicate design intent and accelerate iteration.

  • Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage multiple complex projects from concept through execution in a fast-paced, highly creative environment.

  • Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to clearly articulate design intent and rationale to both creative and non-creative stakeholders.

  • This position is primarily on site at the Design Center in Warren, Michigan, with some flexibility under our Work Appropriately model.

What Will Give You A Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications)
  • Experience delivering large-scale corporate, museum, exhibition, or brand environment projects, ideally within automotive, mobility, or technology sectors.

  • Familiarity with fabrication methods, materials, lighting, and detailing for high-finish interior and experiential projects.

  • Experience with real-time engines (such as Unreal Engine or Unity) and motion/experience design for immersive storytelling.

  • Prior experience working within or alongside in-house brand, marketing, or product design teams.

  • Comfortable presenting to senior leaders and executive stakeholders, with a strong narrative and visual communication style that champions the work and the team.

GM does not provide immigration-related sponsorship for this role. Do not apply for this role if you will need GM immigration sponsorship now or in the future. This includes direct company sponsorship, entry of GM as the immigration employer of record on a government form, and any work authorization requiring a written submission or other immigration support from the company (e.g., H1-B, OPT, STEM OPT, CPT, TN, J-1, etc).This role is categorized as onsite. This means the selected candidate is expected to report to a specific location on a full-time basis.The selected candidate will be required to travel <25% for this role.This job may be eligible for relocation benefits.
About GM
Our vision is a world with Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions and Zero Congestion and we embrace the responsibility to lead the change that will make our world better, safer and more equitable for all.
Why Join Us
We believe we all must make a choice every day - individually and collectively - to drive meaningful change through our words, our deeds and our culture. Every day, we want every employee to feel they belong to one General Motors team.
Benefits Overview
From day one, we're looking out for your well-being-at work and at home-so you can focus on realizing your ambitions. Learn how GM supports a rewarding career that rewards you personally by visiting Total Rewards resources.
Non-Discrimination and Equal Employment Opportunities (U.S.)
General Motors is committed to being a workplace that is not only free of unlawful discrimination, but one that genuinely fosters inclusion and belonging. We strongly believe that providing an inclusive workplace creates an environment in which our employees can thrive and develop better products for our customers.
All employment decisions are made on a non-discriminatory basis without regard to sex, race, color, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, disability, pregnancy or maternity status, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran or protected veteran, or any other similarly protected status in accordance with federal, state and local laws.
We encourage interested candidates to review the key responsibilities and qualifications for each role and apply for any positions that match their skills and capabilities. Applicants in the recruitment process may be required, where applicable, to successfully complete a role-related assessment(s) and/or a pre-employment screening prior to beginning employment. To learn more, visit How we Hire.
Accommodations
General Motors offers opportunities to all job seekers including individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, emailus or call us at 1-800-865-7580. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition number of the position for which you are applying.

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About General Motors

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General Motors is a company with global scale and capabilities, headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, with employees around the world. The company employs over 165,000 people, serves six continents, operates across 22 time zones, and has a diverse workforce speaking 75 languages1. GM’s vision is to drive the world forward by pioneering innovations that move and connect people to what matters. The company is working towards an all-electric future with its new Ultium Platform and is pushing transportation options beyond our wildest imaginations with autonomous vehicles. GM is also committed to becoming the most inclusive company in the world.

Industry

Transportation equipment manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Detroit, MI, US

Year founded

1908