Responsibilities : • Act as the technical lead for cross-functional partners (product designers ... 2D animation pipelines (Maya, Blender, Houdini, or Toon Boom, etc.) • Understanding of game ...
Responsibilities : • Act as the technical lead for cross-functional partners (product designers ... 2D animation pipelines (Maya, Blender, Houdini, or Toon Boom, etc.) • Understanding of game ...
Creative Technology Manager
Manhattan, NY · On-site
Responsibilities : • Act as the technical lead for cross-functional partners (product designers ... 2D animation pipelines (Maya, Blender, Houdini, or Toon Boom, etc.). • Understanding of game ...
Creative Technology Manager
Manhattan, NY · On-site
Responsibilities : • Act as the technical lead for cross-functional partners (product designers ... 2D animation pipelines (Maya, Blender, Houdini, or Toon Boom, etc.). • Understanding of game ...
Creative Technology Manager
Manhattan, NY · On-site
Responsibilities : • Act as the technical lead for cross-functional partners (product designers ... 2D animation pipelines (Maya, Blender, Houdini, or Toon Boom, etc.). • Understanding of game ...
Creative Technology Manager
Manhattan, NY · On-site
Responsibilities : • Act as the technical lead for cross-functional partners (product designers ... 2D animation pipelines (Maya, Blender, Houdini, or Toon Boom, etc.). • Understanding of game ...
Creative Technology Manager
Manhattan, NY · On-site
Responsibilities : • Act as the technical lead for cross-functional partners (product designers ... 2D animation pipelines (Maya, Blender, Houdini, or Toon Boom, etc.) • Understanding of game ...
Creative Technology Manager
Manhattan, NY · On-site
Responsibilities : • Act as the technical lead for cross-functional partners (product designers ... 2D animation pipelines (Maya, Blender, Houdini, or Toon Boom, etc.) • Understanding of game ...
You'll lead the prototyping of new ideas, build production-ready systems, and shape the tooling ... A strong motion and design sensibility across 3D or 2D animation pipelines (Maya, Blender, Houdini ...
You'll lead the prototyping of new ideas, build production-ready systems, and shape the tooling ... A strong motion and design sensibility across 3D or 2D animation pipelines (Maya, Blender, Houdini ...
You'll lead the prototyping of new ideas, build production-ready systems, and shape the tooling ... A strong motion and design sensibility across 3D or 2D animation pipelines (Maya, Blender, Houdini ...
You'll lead the prototyping of new ideas, build production-ready systems, and shape the tooling ... A strong motion and design sensibility across 3D or 2D animation pipelines (Maya, Blender, Houdini ...
As a Creative Motion Design Senior Lead, you'll work alongside motion designers, art directors ... 2D and 3D animation that brings ideas to life and supports strong visual storytelling across ...
As a Creative Motion Design Senior Lead, you'll work alongside motion designers, art directors ... 2D and 3D animation that brings ideas to life and supports strong visual storytelling across ...
As a Creative Motion Design Senior Lead, you'll work alongside motion designers, art directors ... 2D and 3D animation that brings ideas to life and supports strong visual storytelling across ...
Quick apply
As a Creative Motion Design Senior Lead, you'll work alongside motion designers, art directors ... 2D and 3D animation that brings ideas to life and supports strong visual storytelling across ...
Visual Development Artist
$51.61 - $81.75/hr
Sony Pictures Animation is a pre-production animation studio based in Los Angeles, California ... We pride ourselves on empowering filmmakers to lead the creative process, and allowing the hand of ...
Visual Development Artist
$51.61 - $81.75/hr
Sony Pictures Animation is a pre-production animation studio based in Los Angeles, California ... We pride ourselves on empowering filmmakers to lead the creative process, and allowing the hand of ...
They will lead a team of engineers and workflow specialists, and partner closely with INK ... and 2D animation. Establish guidelines around data governance, model lifecycle management, and ...
They will lead a team of engineers and workflow specialists, and partner closely with INK ... and 2D animation. Establish guidelines around data governance, model lifecycle management, and ...
Visual Development Artist
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
$51.61 - $81.75/hr
Sony Pictures Animation is a pre-production animation studio based in Los Angeles, California ... We pride ourselves on empowering filmmakers to lead the creative process, and allowing the hand of ...
Visual Development Artist
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
$51.61 - $81.75/hr
Sony Pictures Animation is a pre-production animation studio based in Los Angeles, California ... We pride ourselves on empowering filmmakers to lead the creative process, and allowing the hand of ...
They will lead a team of engineers and workflow specialists, and partner closely with INK ... and 2D animation. Establish guidelines around data governance, model lifecycle management, and ...
They will lead a team of engineers and workflow specialists, and partner closely with INK ... and 2D animation. Establish guidelines around data governance, model lifecycle management, and ...
$93K - $98K/yr
In this role, you will lead and elevate the artistic direction across multiple game development ... Evaluate and provide feedback on artwork across 2D, 3D, animation, and related creative disciplines
$93K - $98K/yr
In this role, you will lead and elevate the artistic direction across multiple game development ... Evaluate and provide feedback on artwork across 2D, 3D, animation, and related creative disciplines
As a Creative Motion Design Senior Lead, you'll work alongside motion designers, art directors ... Create polished 2D and 3D animation that brings ideas to life and supports strong visual ...
As a Creative Motion Design Senior Lead, you'll work alongside motion designers, art directors ... Create polished 2D and 3D animation that brings ideas to life and supports strong visual ...
Head of Technology - Ink
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
... native animation studio. This role sits at the intersection of creative, production, and ... Real-time, 2D, CG and hybrid pipelines used in partnership with GenAI technology * Lead evaluation ...
Head of Technology - Ink
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
... native animation studio. This role sits at the intersection of creative, production, and ... Real-time, 2D, CG and hybrid pipelines used in partnership with GenAI technology * Lead evaluation ...
... native animation studio. This role sits at the intersection of creative, production, and ... Real-time, 2D, CG and hybrid pipelines used in partnership with GenAI technology * Lead evaluation ...
... native animation studio. This role sits at the intersection of creative, production, and ... Real-time, 2D, CG and hybrid pipelines used in partnership with GenAI technology * Lead evaluation ...
OR · On-site
... native animation studio. This role sits at the intersection of creative, production, and ... Real-time, 2D, CG and hybrid pipelines used in partnership with GenAI technology * Lead evaluation ...
Head of Technology - Ink
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
... native animation studio. This role sits at the intersection of creative, production, and ... Real-time, 2D, CG and hybrid pipelines used in partnership with GenAI technology * Lead evaluation ...
Head of Technology - Ink
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
... native animation studio. This role sits at the intersection of creative, production, and ... Real-time, 2D, CG and hybrid pipelines used in partnership with GenAI technology * Lead evaluation ...
Collaborate with Lead Designers to establish, document, and disseminate visual guidelines and ... 2D/3D Animation, etc... * 3+ Years working in Maya is required. * 3+ Years working in Unrealis ...
Collaborate with Lead Designers to establish, document, and disseminate visual guidelines and ... 2D/3D Animation, etc... * 3+ Years working in Maya is required. * 3+ Years working in Unrealis ...
3D Designer
Dearborn, MI · On-site +1
Collaborate with Lead Designers to establish, document, and disseminate visual guidelines and ... 2D/3D Animation, etc... * 3+ Years working in Maya is required. * 3+ Years working in Unreal is ...
3D Designer
Dearborn, MI · On-site +1
Collaborate with Lead Designers to establish, document, and disseminate visual guidelines and ... 2D/3D Animation, etc... * 3+ Years working in Maya is required. * 3+ Years working in Unreal is ...
Lead 2D Animator information
See salary details
$14.66 - $19.58
7% of jobs
$19.58 - $24.50
8% of jobs
$27.10 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$24.50 - $29.41
18% of jobs
The median wage is $34.33 / hr.
$29.41 - $34.33
17% of jobs
$34.33 - $39.25
22% of jobs
$40.59 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$39.25 - $44.17
11% of jobs
$44.17 - $49.08
9% of jobs
$49.08 - $54
3% of jobs
$54 - $58.92
3% of jobs
$58.92 - $63.83
0% of jobs
$63.83 - $68.75
1% of jobs
$14
$36
$68
How much do lead 2d animator jobs pay per hour?
As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead 2d animator in the United States is $36.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.88 and $42.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
How does a Lead 2D Animator typically collaborate with other departments during a project?
A Lead 2D Animator works closely with directors, storyboard artists, and the art department to ensure that the animation style and movement align with the project's vision. They also frequently communicate with editors and sound designers to synchronize visuals with audio elements. Collaboration is essential throughout the production pipeline, as the Lead 2D Animator often provides feedback, coordinates asset delivery, and ensures that animation sequences integrate smoothly with backgrounds and special effects. This cross-functional teamwork helps maintain consistency and quality across the final product.
What are Lead 2D Animators?
Lead 2D Animators are senior professionals responsible for overseeing the creation and quality of 2D animated content in film, television, video games, or advertising. They guide and mentor a team of animators, ensuring the artistic vision and style are consistent throughout a project. In addition to supervising animation work, they often collaborate with directors, designers, and other departments to meet deadlines and resolve creative challenges. Their expertise in both technical animation skills and leadership is crucial for delivering high-quality, engaging animations.
What is the difference between Lead 2D Animator vs 2D Animator?
| Aspect | Lead 2D Animator | 2D Animator |
|---|---|---|
| Responsibilities | Oversees animation projects, guides team, ensures style consistency | Creates individual animations, follows project briefs |
| Credentials | Typically requires a portfolio, experience, sometimes a degree in animation or related field | Portfolio, basic animation skills, often a degree or diploma in animation or art |
| Work Environment | Team-based, collaborative, often in studios or remote teams | Individual work, often under supervision, in studio or freelance settings |
The main difference between a Lead 2D Animator and a 2D Animator is the level of responsibility. The Lead 2D Animator manages animation projects and guides team members, while a 2D Animator focuses on creating animations based on project requirements. Both roles require strong animation skills and relevant experience, but the Lead position involves leadership and project oversight.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lead 2D Animator, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Lead 2D Animator, you need advanced drawing abilities, a deep understanding of animation principles, and typically a degree in animation or a related field. Proficiency in industry-standard software like Adobe Animate, Toon Boom Harmony, and After Effects is crucial, along with experience managing animation pipelines. Strong leadership, communication, and time management skills help you guide teams and collaborate effectively across departments. These skills ensure high-quality animation output, efficient production workflows, and cohesive team performance in creative environments.
More about Lead 2D Animator jobs
What job categories do people searching Lead 2D Animator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lead 2D Animator jobs are:
Job description
Job Summary:
Duolingo is on a mission to develop the best education in the world and make it universally available. As a Creative Technology Manager, you will manage a team of Creative Technologists and enhance the use of art, motion, and interactivity to create engaging learning experiences.
Responsibilities:
• Act as the technical lead for cross-functional partners (product designers, product managers, and engineers) to unblock bold ideas and drive them from concept through delivery
• Develop your team’s skills and careers, giving clear, actionable feedback and coaching toward greater scope and impact
• Create and evolve complex animated UI using Rive or similar technologies for high-visibility features across the app
• Collaborate directly with iOS and Android engineers to design asset functionality, troubleshoot, and optimize performance
• Shape our design and animation ecosystem (Rive, Figma, Unity, internal tools) by developing tools, automations, and systems that scale high-quality output
Qualifications:
Required:
• 5+ years in roles adjacent to creative technology (e.g., technical animation, gameplay scripting, CG supervision, pipeline/TD work) with proven people management or leadership experience.
• A portfolio or demo reel that demonstrates: High-quality visuals delivered within real-world performance constraints, Reducing complexity while achieving product goals, Systems thinking (e.g., reusable animation or interaction systems), Tooling that meaningfully improves team workflows, Prototyping savvy and end-to-end problem solving.
• Strong programming or scripting skills (e.g., Python, C++, or similar).
• Excellent communication skills, including fluency in design-to-engineering handoffs, and communicating technical constraints to non-technical partners.
• Experience operating in highly ambiguous environments and independently driving projects with cross-functional dependencies.
• Ability to work from or relocate to Pittsburgh, PA or New York, NY.
Preferred:
• Experience creating interactive animation for mobile products at scale
• Proficiency with Rive for building UI and designing complex user interactions
• A strong motion and design sensibility across 3D or 2D animation pipelines (Maya, Blender, Houdini, or Toon Boom, etc.)
• Understanding of game design principles, especially for learning contexts
• A passion for the craft and a care for their people.
Company:
Duolingo is a language-learning education platform that offers 98 total courses across nearly 40 distinct languages. Founded in 2011, the company is headquartered in Pittsburgh, USA, with a team of 501-1000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.
Duolingo is on a mission to develop the best education in the world and make it universally available. As a Creative Technology Manager, you will manage a team of Creative Technologists and enhance the use of art, motion, and interactivity to create engaging learning experiences.
Responsibilities:
• Act as the technical lead for cross-functional partners (product designers, product managers, and engineers) to unblock bold ideas and drive them from concept through delivery
• Develop your team’s skills and careers, giving clear, actionable feedback and coaching toward greater scope and impact
• Create and evolve complex animated UI using Rive or similar technologies for high-visibility features across the app
• Collaborate directly with iOS and Android engineers to design asset functionality, troubleshoot, and optimize performance
• Shape our design and animation ecosystem (Rive, Figma, Unity, internal tools) by developing tools, automations, and systems that scale high-quality output
Qualifications:
Required:
• 5+ years in roles adjacent to creative technology (e.g., technical animation, gameplay scripting, CG supervision, pipeline/TD work) with proven people management or leadership experience.
• A portfolio or demo reel that demonstrates: High-quality visuals delivered within real-world performance constraints, Reducing complexity while achieving product goals, Systems thinking (e.g., reusable animation or interaction systems), Tooling that meaningfully improves team workflows, Prototyping savvy and end-to-end problem solving.
• Strong programming or scripting skills (e.g., Python, C++, or similar).
• Excellent communication skills, including fluency in design-to-engineering handoffs, and communicating technical constraints to non-technical partners.
• Experience operating in highly ambiguous environments and independently driving projects with cross-functional dependencies.
• Ability to work from or relocate to Pittsburgh, PA or New York, NY.
Preferred:
• Experience creating interactive animation for mobile products at scale
• Proficiency with Rive for building UI and designing complex user interactions
• A strong motion and design sensibility across 3D or 2D animation pipelines (Maya, Blender, Houdini, or Toon Boom, etc.)
• Understanding of game design principles, especially for learning contexts
• A passion for the craft and a care for their people.
Company:
Duolingo is a language-learning education platform that offers 98 total courses across nearly 40 distinct languages. Founded in 2011, the company is headquartered in Pittsburgh, USA, with a team of 501-1000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.
About Duolingo
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Software development
Company size
11 - 50 Employees
Headquarters location
Pittsburgh, PA, US
Year founded
2011