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Stop Motion Animation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hearst

Senior Social Editor & Animator

Manhattan, NY · Hybrid

$88K - $94K/yr

Experiment with stop-motion, mixed media, lo-fi effects, and emerging formats to keep content ... Qualifications (What We're Looking For) * 3-5 years of social-first editing and animation ...

Hearst

Senior Social Editor & Animator

Manhattan, NY · Hybrid

$88K - $94K/yr

Experiment with stop-motion, mixed media, lo-fi effects, and emerging formats to keep content ... Qualifications (What We're Looking For) * 3-5 years of social-first editing and animation ...

Hearst

Senior Social Editor & Animator

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$88K - $94K/yr

Experiment with stop-motion, mixed media, lo-fi effects, and emerging formats to keep content ... Qualifications (What We're Looking For) * 3-5 years of social-first editing and animation ...

Hearst

Senior Social Editor & Animator

Manhattan, NY · Hybrid

$88K - $94K/yr

Experiment with stop-motion, mixed media, lo-fi effects, and emerging formats to keep content ... Qualifications (What We're Looking For) * 3-5 years of social-first editing and animation ...

LAIKA

Technical Project Manager

Hillsboro, OR

General Summary LAIKA is a world-renowned stop motion animation studio known for groundbreaking storytelling and technical innovation. We are seeking a Technical Project Manager to join our ...

Laika Inc

Technical Project Manager

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

Technical Project Manager LAIKA is a world-renowned stop motion animation studio known for groundbreaking storytelling and technical innovation. We are seeking a Technical Project Manager to join our ...

LAIKA

Technical Project Manager

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

General Summary LAIKA is a world-renowned stop motion animation studio known for groundbreaking storytelling and technical innovation. We are seeking a Technical Project Managerto join our Technology ...

Swaybox Studios

Rhino Designer

New Orleans, LA

Familiarity with stop-motion or hybrid puppet-animation pipelines. * Knowledge of lighting and camera placement for physical or digital sets. * Comfortable working in a fast-paced, iterative creative ...

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How much do stop motion animation jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for stop motion animation in the United States is $39.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.88 and $63.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Are Stop Motion Animation Jobs?

Stop motion animation jobs include a variety of positions in the film and TV industry, including animator, motion designer, landscape artist, and model maker. In this field, you may design storyboards, create instructions for manipulating models between shots, repair damaged objects, and perform finely detailed tasks for extended periods. It can take weeks or months to complete a scene, depending on how complex it is, and most jobs involve significant amounts of collaboration. You may also help to maintain and organize supplies, ensure the general upkeep of your work area, and utilize problem-solving skills to address problems as they occur. Given the speed of work, attention to detail and a desire for perfection are essential to success in this industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Stop Motion Animator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Stop Motion Animator, you need strong artistic ability, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of animation principles, often supported by a degree in animation or a related field. Familiarity with stop motion software like Dragonframe, camera equipment, and post-production tools such as Adobe After Effects is typically required. Creativity, patience, and problem-solving skills help animators bring characters and stories to life frame by frame. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing smooth, engaging animations and meeting the technical and creative demands of the industry.

What are some common challenges faced by stop motion animators during production, and how can they be managed?

Stop motion animators often face challenges such as maintaining continuity between frames, managing intricate puppet movements, and dealing with time-intensive setups. Attention to detail is crucial since even small changes between frames can disrupt the illusion of motion. Animators can manage these challenges by meticulously planning scenes, using detailed storyboards, and maintaining thorough frame-by-frame documentation. Collaboration with lighting and set design teams also helps ensure consistency and efficiency throughout the production process.

What is stop motion animation?

Stop motion animation is a filmmaking technique where physical objects are moved in small increments between individually photographed frames. When these frames are played back in sequence, it creates the illusion of movement. This method is often used with puppets, clay figures, or everyday objects, and requires careful planning and attention to detail. Stop motion animation is popular in both feature films and short videos due to its unique, tactile visual style. Famous examples include movies like 'Coraline' and 'Wallace & Gromit.'

What is the difference between Stop Motion Animation vs 3D Animation?

AspectStop Motion Animation3D Animation
CredentialsOften requires a portfolio, basic animation skills, and knowledge of physical modelsRequires skills in 3D modeling, software proficiency (e.g., Maya, Blender), and often a degree in animation or related field
Work EnvironmentStudio or on-location with physical models and setsComputer-based, using digital workstations and software
Industry UsageFilm, TV, commercials, and artistic projects emphasizing handcrafted visualsVideo games, movies, virtual simulations, and high-end visual effects

While both stop motion animation and 3D animation involve creating animated visuals, stop motion uses physical models and sets captured frame-by-frame, whereas 3D animation relies on digital models and software. Each requires different skills and tools but shares a common goal of bringing characters and scenes to life.

More about Stop Motion Animation jobs
What cities are hiring for Stop Motion Animation jobs? Cities with the most Stop Motion Animation job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Stop Motion Animation jobs? The most popular types of Stop Motion Animation jobs are:
What states have the most Stop Motion Animation jobs? States with the most job openings for Stop Motion Animation jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Stop Motion Animation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Stop Motion Animation jobs are:
Stop Motion Animation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Stop Motion Animation job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,974 per year, or $39.4 per hour.
Senior Social Editor & Animator

Senior Social Editor & Animator

Hearst

Manhattan, NY • Hybrid

$88K - $94K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 9 days ago

Hearst rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 64 rated media

Job description

Be Part of What's Next 

Are you obsessed with the intersection of creativity, motion design, and what's trending on TikTok? We're looking for a Senior Social Editor & Animator to help shape the future of how branded stories live and thrive across social platforms. From AI-enhanced storytelling to scroll-stopping animations, this role is at the cutting edge of editorial creativity and performance.

About Hearst Magazines (Why Us?)

Hearst Magazines' portfolio of more than 30 iconic brands in the U.S.-including Cosmopolitan, ELLE, Esquire, Good Housekeeping, Harper's BAZAAR, and Popular Mechanics - inspires, entertains, and builds new and bold experiences for an engaged and growing audience across digital, video, social and print, reaching nearly 130 million readers and site visitors each month. With sophisticated content creation, cutting-edge technology, and industry-leading data capabilities, we make media and products that move people across all platforms. We are a global media company that publishes nearly 200 magazine editions and 175 websites around the world-and together, we are shaping what's next.

Key Responsibilities (What You're Doing)

  • Edit and design social-first branded content including Reels, Stories, Shorts, interactive assets, and vertical video variations.
  • Transform single content pieces into optimized assets for TikTok, Instagram, YouTube Shorts, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and more.
  • Animate graphics with impact using kinetic typography, motion overlays, and dynamic treatments tailored to platform trends.
  • Convert still images into engaging motion content through AI tools, motion design, and inventive storytelling.
  • Repurpose long-form video into short-form, snackable content that performs across social channels.
  • Collaborate with producers, directors, and creatives to develop fresh visual narratives aligned with brand and client goals.
  • Experiment with stop-motion, mixed media, lo-fi effects, and emerging formats to keep content cutting-edge.
  • Integrate AI tools like Runway to enhance workflows and elevate creative output.
  • Deliver high-quality, polished assets under tight deadlines while maintaining creative excellence.

Qualifications (What We're Looking For)

  • 3-5 years of social-first editing and animation experience in a brand studio, publisher, agency, or digital-first content environment.
  • Strong skills in Adobe Creative Suite (Premiere Pro, After Effects, Photoshop, Illustrator).
  • Proficiency with emerging creator-native tools such as CapCut, Edits, DaVinci Resolve, and Canva Pro.
  • Experience using AI-enhanced creative tools (e.g., RunwayML).
  • Bonus if familiar with 3D or advanced motion graphics platforms like Blender or Cinema4D.
  • Portfolio showcasing optimized content for TikTok, Instagram, YouTube Shorts, and platform-native design styles.
  • Demonstrated expertise in transforming still images into motion content using design and AI tools.
  • Strong collaborator, highly adaptable, and able to juggle multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
  • Based in NYC with a hybrid in-office schedule (4 days/week).

What We Offer

  • Work with the Best: Collaborate with top-tier professionals across media, advertising, tech, fashion, lifestyle, and publishing, shaping the future of these dynamic industries.
  • Grow Your Skills: Unlock your potential with access to innovative training programs, immersive workshops, and exclusive industry events.
  • Work-Life Harmony: Enjoy the flexibility of hybrid work, empowering you to balance professional success with personal priorities.
  • Foster Connection & Belonging: Join our Employee Resource Groups and help create a welcoming workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered.
  • Wellness First: Prioritize your well-being with a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance from Day 1.
  • Plan for Your Financial Future: Enjoy competitive financial perks, including a 401(k) plan with a generous company match.

The base salary for this role is between $88,000 - $94,000. The actual base pay offered is dependent upon many factors, such as: transferable skills, work experience, business needs and market demands. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future.

Hearst is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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