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Japanese Animation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

VIZ Media

Content Specialist (Animation)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$72K - $85K/yr

Job Summary VIZ Media, the world leader in English-language versions of manga and anime (Japanese comics and animation), is looking for a Specialist to join our Content team. The Specialist, Content ...

Toho International, Inc.

Social Media Intern

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

Film and edit short-form videos for Godzilla and TOHO animation STORE US channels * Assist with ... S. subsidiary of Toho Company, Limited, a premier Japanese entertainment studio. The company ...

SEGA OF AMERICA INC

Brand Community Manager

Irvine, CA · Hybrid

... animation, and beyond. The Brand Community Manager supports the Brand Marketing team by leading and ... A strong interest for Japanese IP with familiarity across ATLUS, RGG and SEGA's legacy brands is ...

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Japanese Animation information

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How much do japanese animation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for japanese animation in the United States is $25.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can a foreigner be an animator in Japan?

Japanese animation studios often hire foreign animators, especially those with strong skills in drawing, animation software, and understanding of Japanese industry standards. However, obtaining a work visa and language proficiency in Japanese are typically required for employment in Japan. Many foreign animators work through internships, freelance projects, or specialized visa programs.

What does a typical day look like for someone working in Japanese Animation?

A typical day in Japanese Animation often involves collaborating with directors, writers, and fellow animators to bring storyboards to life through character movement, background design, and scene transitions. You'll likely spend much of your day revising artwork, integrating feedback, and meeting tight production deadlines while participating in team meetings or creative sessions. While tasks can vary depending on your specific role within the team, animators generally have a mix of independent focused work and collaborative interactions. The work environment can be fast-paced due to project timelines, requiring adaptability and strong communication. Many studios also offer mentoring opportunities and clear routes for career progression, especially for those who consistently deliver high-quality animation under pressure.

How much does a Japanese animator make?

Japanese animators' salaries vary based on experience, studio size, and project scope. Entry-level animators typically earn around 1.0 to 1.5 million yen annually, while experienced professionals can earn over 3 million yen or more. Many work long hours and require strong skills in drawing and animation software.

What is a Japanese Animation job?

A Japanese Animation job involves working in the production of anime, which is a distinct style of animation originating from Japan. Roles in this field can range from animators and character designers to storyboard artists, writers, and producers. Professionals in this industry are responsible for creating visually compelling stories through hand-drawn or digital techniques. Many positions require strong artistic skills, familiarity with animation software, and an understanding of Japanese animation aesthetics. Jobs can be found in animation studios, freelance work, or collaborative international projects.

How to get a job in animation?

To get a job in animation, build a strong portfolio showcasing your skills in drawing, storytelling, and software like Adobe Animate or Toon Boom. Gain relevant education or training in animation, and seek internships or entry-level positions to gain industry experience. Proficiency in Japanese language and understanding of local industry standards can also improve employment prospects in Japan.

Are animators in demand?

Animators in Japan are in demand due to the country's strong animation industry and global popularity of anime. Skilled animators with proficiency in digital tools and understanding of storytelling are sought after, especially in production studios and freelance work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Japanese Animation position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Japanese Animation, you need strong artistic abilities, proficiency in digital illustration, character design, storyboarding, and typically a degree in animation or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard animation software such as Adobe After Effects, Clip Studio Paint, or Toon Boom Harmony is highly valued, and experience with 2D and 3D modeling tools may be advantageous. Creative problem-solving, teamwork, time management, and receptive communication skills are essential to excel in collaborative, deadline-driven environments. These skills and tools ensure high-quality production and effective participation in the fast-paced, detail-oriented world of anime creation.

More about Japanese Animation jobs
What cities are hiring for Japanese Animation jobs? Cities with the most Japanese Animation job openings:
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Japanese Animation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Japanese Animation job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 72% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,349 per year, or $25.6 per hour.
Content Specialist (Animation)

Content Specialist (Animation)

VIZ Media

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$72K - $85K/yr

Other

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Job Summary

VIZ Media, the world leader in English-language versions of manga and anime (Japanese comics and animation), is looking for a Specialist to join our Content team. The Specialist, Content will work closely with the Director and other members of the Content team to facilitate the company's animation content acquisitions and the Intellectual Property's product lifecycle. This position is a key role connecting VIZ Media's internal teams with major partners in Japan, including Licensors, co-production committee members, and other rights holders. The Specialist, Content must be able to communicate in a professional manner in both Japanese and English, with in-depth knowledge and ample experience in the Japanese anime industry and familiarity with the licensing business.

What you'll do:

  1. Research and identify new anime title(s) for acquisition and manga titles for adaptation by gathering and analyzing new title information according to the company's screening process.
  2. Negotiate deal terms with content owners/partners to license and renew new titles/IP. 
  3. Work closely with the legal department to accurately reflect the agreed deal terms to the master licensing agreement.
  4. Support the newly acquired title's on-boarding process by communicating the deal term and relevant key information with the company's cross-functional team. Assist communication between internal teams and the Licensor as needed throughout the IP Lifecycle.
  5. Maintain internal trackers related to the content acquisition and deal approvals up to date.  
  6. Obtain Licensor approvals and other permissions required for sublicensing deals and other special projects and promotions.
  7. Review royalty reports to ensure that the deal terms are accurately reflected in the reporting.
  8. Create reports and presentations as needed including but not limited to production committee reports and co-production/acquisition offer presentations. Attend Co-production/acquisition related meetings with Japanese partners as needed. 
  9. Act as the point of contact for partner needs.

In addition to these responsibilities, performs other activities as assigned.

The ideal candidate has:

  • Business-level spoken and written fluency in Japanese and English a MUST
  • 1-3 years of experience and interest in the entertainment/media industry, with prior anime industry experience preferred
  • Experience working in a Japanese and/or Japanese-adjacent corporate environment a MUST.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Suite
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills to facilitate interdepartmental collaboration and interact professionally with culturally diverse clients, providers, and staff 
  • High attention to detail to maintain complex deal information in the system. 
  • Ability to prioritize and balance multiple projects simultaneously, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines
  • Bachelor's Degree in a related field, or equivalent experience, with a record that demonstrates suitable preparation for this position

Work Environment & Schedule

Location: The Content Specialist must be local to the San Francisco Bay Area. VIZ Media operates on a hybrid schedule, and employees should expect to work onsite at our downtown San Francisco office 1 day per week.

Schedule: This is a Regular Full-Time position (40 hours per week) with core hours of 10 am to 4 pm with some flexibility outside of core hours as needed. 

Compensation: $72,000 - $85,000 annually, depending on experience, with additional variable compensation

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