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Pre Production Animation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sony Pictures Animation

Editor - Features

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$3.2K - $4.5K/wk

Sony Pictures Animation is a pre-production animation studio based in Los Angeles, California, creating both feature animation and animated series with artists from around the world. We pride ...

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How much do pre production animation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for pre production animation in the United States is $19.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive in Pre Production Animation, you need strong artistic abilities, a solid understanding of storytelling and visual development, and a degree in animation or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard software like Adobe Creative Suite, Storyboard Pro, and 3D modeling tools is highly valued, and some roles may require formal training or certification in animation. Excellent communication, teamwork, and creative problem-solving skills help you collaborate effectively with directors, writers, and production teams. These skills are vital to ensure that the animation vision is clearly realized and production proceeds smoothly from concept to execution.

What is a Pre Production Animation job?

A Pre Production Animation job involves the early stages of creating an animated project, focusing on concept development, storyboarding, character design, and visual style. Artists and designers work closely with directors and writers to establish the creative foundation before full production begins. This phase ensures a clear vision, helping streamline the animation process and reducing potential issues later.

What are entry-level animator jobs?

Entry-level animator jobs typically involve creating basic animations under supervision, often requiring proficiency in animation software like Adobe Animate or Toon Boom. These roles may include tasks such as assisting with storyboarding, character design, and scene setup, and often require a portfolio or demo reel to demonstrate foundational skills.

What are the typical responsibilities of someone working in Pre Production Animation?

Professionals in Pre Production Animation are responsible for visualizing and designing the initial look and feel of an animated project, which includes developing storyboards, concept art, and character designs. They collaborate closely with directors, writers, and other artists to establish the visual tone and narrative flow before full production begins. Daily tasks often involve sketching, pitching ideas, revising artwork based on feedback, and ensuring that the artistic vision aligns with the project's requirements. This collaborative and creative environment allows artists to have a significant impact on the final product and provides valuable experience for future advancement within the animation industry.

Will AI replace animators?

AI is increasingly used to assist pre-production animation tasks such as storyboarding, character design, and motion capture, but it does not fully replace animators. Human creativity, storytelling, and artistic judgment remain essential in producing high-quality animations, and animators who adapt to new tools can enhance their productivity and skills.

What is considered pre-production in animation?

Pre-production in animation involves planning and development stages such as storyboarding, script writing, character design, concept art, and creating animatics. This phase establishes the visual style, story structure, and production schedule before actual animation begins, requiring skills in design, storytelling, and project management tools.

Does Disney hire 2D animators?

Disney hires 2D animators for various projects, especially in traditional animation and character design roles. Candidates typically need strong drawing skills, proficiency in animation software like Toon Boom or Adobe Animate, and a portfolio demonstrating their 2D animation work.
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Pre Production Animation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pre Production Animation job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,008 per year, or $19.2 per hour.
Production Coordinator (General) - Series

Production Coordinator (General) - Series

Sony Pictures Animation

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$25 - $31/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

SUMMARY:  

The Production Coordinator supports the Producer and Production Manager (PM) who supervises the management of one or more front end departments for a series production. Departments include Production, Story, Script, Editorial and Visual Development.

Sony Pictures Animation is a pre-production animation studio based in Los Angeles, California, creating both feature animation and animated series with artists from around the world. We pride ourselves on empowering filmmakers to lead the creative process, and allowing the hand of the artist to be truly felt, with the goal of producing bold and innovative visual storytelling.

RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Coordinate and schedule production meetings
  • Participate in production meetings, deliver status updates when required, and take notes
  • Accurate data entry in production tracking software.
  • Maintain organized production and artwork files within existing directory structures
  • Coordinate travel for production
  • Handle and complete expense reports
  • Order office supplies for the department
  • Create and submit guest parking passes for meetings as needed
  • Special projects as needed
  • Keep supervisors advised by providing accurate and timely information
  • Direct people both internally and externally to the correct department to get the information that is needed
  • Organize files that are received so that it is easily retrievable
  • Handle requests made by crewmembers, Directors, Department Head and Production Management
  • Build trusting and open relationships with productions
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Previous animation office or project experience
  • Working knowledge of the pre-production and CG series production pipeline
  • Highly organized, resourceful and diligent with excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills
  • Multitask and work well in a fast-paced department
  • Work independently and set appropriate priorities
  • Take direction when needed and also take the initiative where applicable
  • Maintain a high level of discretion
  • Computer and technology literate - familiarity with Mac/PC operating systems, Photoshop, Google Shared Drives, Word, Excel, Shotgrid and Gmail

The anticipated base salary for this position is $25.00/hour to $31.00/hour. This role may also qualify for incentives and/or comprehensive benefits. The actual base salary offered will depend on a variety of factors, including without limitation, the qualifications of the individual applicant for the position, years of relevant experience, level of education attained, certifications or other professional licenses held, and if applicable, the location of the position.

Sony Pictures Animation is an equal opportunity employer and provides reasonable accommodations in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. We evaluate applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other protected characteristics.

SPE will consider qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records in accordance with applicable law.

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