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Illustrator Animation Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Leidos

Multimedia Design Analyst

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$82K - $149K/yr

... multiple illustration styles and techniques * Experience with creating and manipulating vector graphics DESIRED EXPERIENCE * Experience designing from storyboards * Experience in animation

Leidos

Multimedia Design Analyst

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$82K - $149K/yr

... multiple illustration styles and techniques * Experience with creating and manipulating vector graphics DESIRED EXPERIENCE * Experience designing from storyboards * Experience in animation

GRVTY

Software Developer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, Bridge, PDF as well as Dreamweaver, After Effects, or other ... Demonstrated experience with graphic design including animation and 3D animation. * Degree(s)

Management Concepts

Graphic Designer

Vienna, VA

Must be proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, After Effects, Premiere Pro) as well as Microsoft Office. * Experience with video editing and animation. * Working ...

Management Concepts

Graphic Designer

Vienna, VA · On-site

Must be proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, After Effects, Premiere Pro) as well as Microsoft Office. * Experience with video editing and animation. * Working ...

Schmidt Entities

Graphic Designer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$64K - $92K/yr

Design eye-catching graphics and animations for SCSP's social media channels, ensuring consistency ... Illustrator, InDesign) and other relevant design software. • Excellent communication and ...

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All JobsIllustrator Animation JobsIllustrator Animation Jobs in Reston, VA

Illustrator Animation information

See Reston, VA salary details

$33.8K

$61.7K

$99.9K

How much do illustrator animation jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for illustrator animation in Reston, VA is $61,740.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,100.00 and $70,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are popular job titles related to Illustrator Animation jobs in Reston, VA?

For Illustrator Animation jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Illustrator Animation jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Illustrator Animation jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Illustrator Animation jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Illustrator Animation job openings:

Illustrator Animation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Illustrator Animation job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,740 per year, or $29.7 per hour.

Visuals & Graphics Editor

Middle East Broadcasting Networks

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Job Announcement
Visuals & Graphics Editor
The Visuals & Graphics Editor is responsible for creating dynamic visual and motion graphic content that enhances MBN's storytelling across video, digital, and social platforms. This role develops high-quality graphics, animations, and reusable templates while leveraging modern design technologies, including AI-powered tools, to streamline production, improve efficiency, and maintain editorial integrity.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • The following tasks are considered essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions:
  • Collaborate closely with creative, editorial, and production teams to design impactful, content-driven visuals and motion graphics optimized for multiple screen sizes and digital platforms
  • Design motion graphics packages aligned with MBN's visual identity across shows, digital products, and social media
  • Develop reusable motion graphic templates (e.g., MOGRT files or any backend coding) for efficient production in Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects and similar tools.
  • Create high-quality 2D animations and motion graphics to support editorial storytelling
  • Produce basic 3D animations and visual elements when needed
  • Integrate overlays, lower thirds, explainers, and data visualizations directly into video timelines
  • Collaborate with editors and video producers to align graphics with story beats, pacing, and transitions
  • Design thumbnails, carousels, infographics, and visual assets optimized for mobile-first and social platforms
  • Design and produce visually engaging newsletter and web layouts in PDF format, ensuring consistency with brand guidelines, strong visual hierarchy, and readability across digital platforms.
  • Apply and maintain brand guidelines to ensure visual consistency across all platforms and products
  • Leverage AI-powered design tools for asset generation, animation assistance, rapid prototyping, ideation, and workflow automation
  • Use AI tools responsibly to accelerate production while maintaining editorial accuracy and visual quality
  • Manage multiple design projects simultaneously in a fast-paced production environment
  • Maintain organized design systems, templates, and asset libraries
  • Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, including AI-driven creative tools, and digital storytelling best practices
  • Contribute to a collaborative, cross-functional creative environment

Other Duties:
Perform additional job-related duties and take on new responsibilities as needed based on organizational requirements and circumstances.
Qualifications and Requirements:
Required:
  • 3-5 years of professional experience in motion graphics, visual design, or digital content creation
  • Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, including After Effects, Illustrator, Photoshop, and Premiere Pro
  • Experience creating motion graphic templates (MOGRTs) and reusable design systems
  • Strong understanding of typography, layout, color theory, composition, and visual hierarchy
  • Demonstrated portfolio of professional 2D motion graphics work
  • Ability to translate editorial narratives into clear, compelling visuals and animations
  • Experience producing graphics in fast-paced digital or newsroom environments
  • Strong collaboration, communication, and time management skills.
  • Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.

Preferred
  • Basic 3D animation skills (Cinema 4D, Blender, or similar tools)
  • Experience using AI-powered creative tools (e.g., Runway, Adobe Firefly, generative design platforms, or similar technologies)
  • Familiarity with social-first storytelling for platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, and others
  • Experience in broadcast, media, or news organizations

MBN is an equal opportunity employer committed to workforce diversity.

Apply