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Remote Animation Jobs in Aurora, IL (NOW HIRING)

We bring together directors, designers, animators, editors, and technologists to create work that ... Monday - Thursday in office (Fridays are remote optional) * Flexible time off, including paid ...

We bring together directors, designers, animators, editors, and technologists to create work that ... Monday - Thursday in office (Fridays are remote optional) * Flexible time off, including paid ...

Art Director, Motion - The Heist

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$120K - $150K/yr

We bring together directors, designers, animators, editors, and technologists to create work that ... Monday - Thursday in office (Fridays are remote optional) * Flexible time off, including paid ...

Art Director, Motion - The Heist

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$120K - $150K/yr

We bring together directors, designers, animators, editors, and technologists to create work that ... Monday - Thursday in office (Fridays are remote optional) * Flexible time off, including paid ...

Understanding of how to prepare files for animation and editing * Demonstrated ability to keyframe, edit, composite and render * An online portfolio of work * Being self-organized with the ability to ...

Guess what? ...you're remote! There is no commute time. * You'll grab water, a tea or coffee and log in to your company-provided laptop and dual 24-inch monitors. Yes, we work exclusively on a PC in ...

Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$65K - $85K/yr

A "remote" role would allow an employee to work from a home office that is in one of the states Crain does business in. We can only employ a remote / "work from home" employee if they reside in one ...

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Remote Animation information

See Aurora, IL salary details

$10

$39

$69

How much do remote animation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for remote animation in Aurora, IL is $39.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.68 and $63.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by remote animators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Remote animators often face challenges such as communication barriers, managing feedback loops, and staying aligned with the creative vision of the team. Effective use of collaboration tools, setting up regular check-ins, and maintaining clear documentation can help overcome these hurdles. Additionally, remote animators should proactively seek feedback, clarify expectations, and stay organized to ensure timely delivery of their work. Building strong relationships with colleagues through virtual meetings also fosters a supportive and productive remote work environment.

Can you work in animation remotely?

Yes, many animation jobs can be performed remotely, especially roles involving 2D or 3D animation, character design, and storyboarding. Remote animation positions often require proficiency with industry-standard software like Adobe After Effects, Toon Boom, or Blender, and good communication skills for collaboration. However, some roles may require on-site work for equipment setup or team meetings.

How can I make 2000 a week working from home?

Remote animation professionals can earn $2000 or more weekly by taking on multiple freelance projects, building a strong portfolio, and using platforms like Upwork or Fiverr. Developing specialized skills in software such as Adobe After Effects or Blender and maintaining a consistent schedule can help increase earning potential.

What is the difference between Remote Animation vs Remote Graphic Designer?

AspectRemote AnimationRemote Graphic Designer
Required SkillsAnimation software, storytelling, motion designDesign software, visual communication, branding
Work EnvironmentAnimation studios, media companies, freelanceAdvertising agencies, corporate branding, freelance
Common CertificationsAnimation certifications, Adobe Certified ExpertDesign certifications, Adobe Certified Expert

Remote Animation focuses on creating moving visuals and storytelling through animation software, often for media or entertainment. Remote Graphic Designer emphasizes static visual designs for branding, marketing, and print. Both roles require creative skills and software proficiency but differ mainly in output type and industry applications.

Will animation get replaced by AI?

Animation jobs, including remote animation roles, are unlikely to be fully replaced by AI because creative skills, storytelling, and artistic judgment remain essential. AI can assist with tasks like in-betweening or rendering, but human animators are needed for nuanced, original work and direction. Developing skills in software tools and understanding AI's capabilities can enhance an animator's role in the industry.

Does Disney hire remote animators?

Disney typically hires animators for in-office roles at its studios, but it has increasingly offered remote or hybrid work options for certain positions, especially during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Remote animation roles often require proficiency in industry-standard tools like Maya or Adobe Creative Suite and may involve collaboration across teams.

What is a remote animation job?

A remote animation job involves creating animated visuals, characters, or effects while working from a location outside of a traditional office environment, typically from home. Remote animators use digital tools and software to design animations for films, video games, advertisements, or websites. Communication with clients or teams is usually handled online, allowing for flexible work arrangements and collaboration across different locations. These jobs require strong artistic skills, proficiency with animation software, and good time management.
What are popular job titles related to Remote Animation jobs in Aurora, IL? For Remote Animation jobs in Aurora, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Aurora, IL are hiring for Remote Animation jobs? Cities near Aurora, IL with the most Remote Animation job openings:
Infographic showing various Remote Animation job openings in Aurora, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% As Needed, 55% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,271 per year, or $39.1 per hour.

Senior Motion Designer - The Heist

Thinkingbox

Chicago, IL • On-site, Remote

$85K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Who We Are

Hi! We're The Heist, the motion design, live action, and post production studio within Thinkingbox, the Brief-to-Built agency.

We bring together directors, designers, animators, editors, and technologists to create work that moves. From brand films to broadcast spots to social campaigns and experiential content, our team blends craft and curiosity to push ideas further. Across our studios, collaboration is real, feedback is open, and culture matters. We take the work seriously. Ourselves, a little less so.

The Opportunity

We're looking for a Senior Motion Designer who leads through craft. This is a hands-on role for someone who thrives inside the work while helping elevate the people around them.

You'll partner closely with Art Directors and Creative Directors to transform ideas into exceptional motion. Whether you're developing styleframes, designing key moments, building 3D scenes, or refining animation, you'll help establish the creative standard for every project you touch.

Beyond execution, you'll be a trusted teammate who mentors others, tackles creative and technical challenges, and helps guide projects through production with confidence and attention to detail.

What You'll Be Doing
  • Design and animate compelling 2D and 3D motion graphics across a wide range of styles and platforms.
  • Develop storyboards, styleframes, and motion explorations that support the creative vision.
  • Collaborate with Art Directors, Creative Directors, Producers, and fellow designers throughout production.
  • Take ownership of complex assignments, solving creative and technical challenges independently.
  • Help maintain a high level of craft, consistency, and polish across every deliverable.
  • Provide thoughtful feedback and mentorship to junior designers, helping raise the quality of the team.
  • Stay current with emerging tools, workflows, and technologies that improve both process and creative output.
  • Accurately estimate effort, communicate progress, and help projects stay on schedule.
What You'll Bring
  • 5+ years of professional experience in motion design, animation, or a related creative field.
  • A portfolio demonstrating exceptional design taste, animation principles, and versatility across styles.
  • Advanced proficiency in After Effects, Cinema 4D, Redshift, and Adobe Creative Suite.
  • Strong understanding of typography, composition, color, pacing, and visual storytelling.
  • Experience working within professional production pipelines from concept through final delivery.
  • Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate across disciplines.
  • A proactive, solution-oriented mindset with the confidence to own work while supporting the team.
Bonus Points!
  • Houdini, X-Particles, Marvelous Designer, or Substance Painter.
  • Unreal Engine, AI-assisted creative workflows, or other emerging motion technologies.
  • Experience with live action, editorial, or VFX pipelines.
Additional Info
  • Monday - Thursday in office (Fridays are remote optional)
  • Flexible time off, including paid vacation and sick days
  • Consistent culture and team-building events
  • Employee recognition and incentive programs
  • Seasonal celebrations and gatherings throughout the year 
  • Office lunches 
  • Branded company swag
  • Access to industry events, learning opportunities, and non-profit outreaches
  • Dog-friendly offices
  • Unlimited coffee, drinks, and snacks
  • Flex work and travel options
  • Comprehensive extended health benefits
  • 401k matching
$85,000 - $95,000 a year
Placement in the salary range will be based on factors such as internal equity, candidate experience, skills, and qualifications relevant to the role. If your compensation expectations fall outside of this range, we still welcome your application.

Equal Opportunity

At The Heist, we're committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued, heard, and empowered to thrive. We believe that diversity is our creative strength - it's the range of perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds that fuels our best ideas and most innovative solutions. We welcome and encourage applicants of all races, ethnicities, genders, identities, abilities, ages, sexual orientations, and backgrounds to apply. Your voice matters here.

To Apply

Thank you for your interest in joining our team. Please submit your resume along with links to your online portfolio as part of your application (if applicable). Due to the volume of applications we receive, we're unable to respond to every submission. However, all applications are kept in our talent database and will be considered for future opportunities.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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