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Internship Animation Character Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Skydance

Character Designer

Santa Monica, CA

$2.9K - $4.0K/wk

Skydance Animation is seeking an experienced Character Designer to join our team on an upcoming ... From early concept exploration to final design execution, you will craft compelling, expressive ...

Skydance

Character Designer

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$2.9K - $4.0K/wk

Skydance Animation is seeking an experienced Character Designer to join our team on an upcoming ... From early concept exploration to final design execution, you will craft compelling, expressive ...

Side

3D Character Artist - Talent Pool (N Americas)

$123K - $130K/yr

Strong understanding of anatomy, proportion, weight, and volume as they relate to character design and animation. * Experience with high- and low-poly modeling, texturing, and shading techniques.

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Internship Animation Character Design information

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How much do internship animation character design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship animation character design in the United States is $19.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect as an animation character design intern?

As an animation character design intern, you will typically support the design team by creating character sketches, refining model sheets, and helping develop character turnarounds. You may be tasked with researching visual references, assisting with color explorations, and iterating on feedback from senior designers or directors. Collaboration is a key part of the role, as you'll often work closely with animators, story artists, and other departments to ensure characters are visually consistent and fit the narrative. This hands-on experience provides great insight into the animation pipeline and helps you build a diverse portfolio.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Animation Character Design Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animation Character Design Intern, you need a strong foundation in drawing, character concept development, and an understanding of anatomy and movement, typically supported by coursework or a portfolio in animation or illustration. Proficiency with industry-standard digital tools such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and animation software like Toon Boom or TVPaint is often required. Creativity, openness to feedback, and strong teamwork skills help interns stand out in collaborative studio environments. These abilities ensure that you can produce compelling characters, respond well to direction, and contribute effectively to the animation pipeline.

What are internship animation character designers?

Internship animation character designers are students or recent graduates who assist professional character designers in creating and developing the visual look, personality, and style of characters for animated films, series, or games. They typically work under supervision, contributing to brainstorming sessions, sketching character concepts, and refining designs based on feedback. Interns gain hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and workflows, learn how to interpret scripts or briefs, and collaborate with other artists and animators. This role is an entry point into the animation industry and helps interns build their portfolios and professional networks.

What is the difference between Internship Animation Character Design vs Animation Character Designer?

AspectInternship Animation Character DesignAnimation Character Designer
QualificationsEnrolled in or recent graduate of relevant art/animation programsProfessional degree or extensive experience in character design
Work EnvironmentInternship programs, entry-level projects, supervised settingsFull-time studio or freelance projects, independent work
ResponsibilitiesAssisting in character sketches, learning workflows, supporting senior designersCreating detailed character concepts, final designs, and revisions
Industry UsageUsed as a training position within animation studiosProfessional role in animation, gaming, or film industries

In summary, Internship Animation Character Design is an entry-level position focused on learning and supporting, while Animation Character Designer is a professional role involving independent creation and responsibility for character designs in various media projects.

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Internship Animation Character Design jobs near you
Animation & Storytelling Intern

Animation & Storytelling Intern

Safe Passage Project

New York, NY

Part-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Location: New York, NY (Hybrid) | Applicants must be based in the New York City area.
Out-of-state applicants will not be considered.

Commitment: 10-15/hrs per week, unpaid (academic credit available)

About Safe Passage Project

Safe Passage Project provides free legal representation to immigrant children facing deportation. We believe every child deserves a fair chance to live safely with dignity and hope for the future.

Why This Internship?

Are you a student who loves bringing characters and stories to life through animation? Do you want to use your creativity to make a positive impact? At Safe Passage Project, you'll have the chance to create storytelling videos that highlight the resilience of immigrant youth and support a mission for justice. This internship gives you the opportunity to experiment with your craft, build a standout portfolio, and see your animations drive real campaigns

What You'll Do

Create short character-animated videos that bring powerful stories to life

Use character design, rigging, and animation techniques (2D or 3D) to develop compelling narratives

Edit and prepare animations and video clips for use on social media, campaigns, and events

Add branding elements and polish content to ensure consistency across platforms

Contribute your own creative ideas and artistic style while aligning with Safe Passage Project's brand guidelines

What We're Looking For

Current student or recent graduate in Animation, Media Arts, Film, or related field

Familiarity with animation software such as Adobe Animate, After Effects, Toon Boom Harmony, Blender, or similar tools

Passion for animation, design, and creative storytelling (coursework, personal projects, or a small portfolio is great, but professional experience is not required)

Creative problem-solver: self-starter who learns quickly, experiments boldly, and thrives when given creative freedom.

Detail-oriented, deadline-driven, and eager to grow as a designer and animator

What You'll Gain

A portfolio filled with real-world projects that showcase your design and animation skills

The chance to see your work used in campaigns that reach thousands of people

Creative freedom to shape projects, experiment with new ideas, and take the lead on animation projects from concept to final cut

Flexible schedule with the opportunity to earn academic credit and fit the role around your studies

How to Apply:

When applying, please include your resume (highlighting relevant coursework, projects, or experience) as well as a portfolio or reel (such as class projects, personal work, or other animation samples).

Employment Type: PART_TIME

Apply