1

Visual Effects Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Adjunct Faculty in Visual Effects Full-time Faculty Positions Full-time faculty positions will be posted on a per-opening basis. Postings are organized by college/school and department. Applicants ...

Product -- hyper-casual mobile games where every visual detail matters -- satisfying effects, smooth animations, and shaders that make players think "wait, how did they do that?" What you'll be doing:

Motion graphics and visual effects * Captioning and formatting * Final exports for multiple digital channels * Partner with marketing and creative teams to create engaging multimedia content that ...

Company Description The Mill has been creating world-class visual effects built on creative excellence and cutting-edge technologies for over twenty-eight years. We believe in creating work that ...

Company Description The Mill has been creating world-class visual effects built on creative excellence and cutting-edge technologies for over twenty-eight years. We believe in creating work that ...

Familiarity with motion and interaction tools (After Effects, prototyping platforms, etc ... visual identities, brand systems, and guidelines for implementation * Experience in concept ...

Familiarity with motion and interaction tools (After Effects, prototyping platforms, etc ... visual identities, brand systems, and guidelines for implementation * Experience in concept ...

Senior Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$105K - $112K/yr

... and visual effects that drive engagement and tell stories Create and integrate animated graphic elements, title treatments, animations, and branded assets to elevate storytelling Develop static ...

Senior Designer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$105K - $112K/yr

... and visual effects that drive engagement and tell stories Create and integrate animated graphic elements, title treatments, animations, and branded assets to elevate storytelling Develop static ...

Java AngularJS(GC-EAD,GC-USC)

Chicago, IL

$52.50 - $68/hr

... visual effects and keeping the framerate above 30fps at all times Thorough understanding of the responsibilities of the platform, database, API, caching layer, proxies, and other web services used in ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Visual Effects information

See Illinois salary details

$10

$25

$64

How much do visual effects jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for visual effects in Illinois is $25.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $27.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are visual effects (VFX) in film and television?

Visual effects (VFX) are techniques used in film, television, and other media to create imagery that cannot be achieved during live-action shooting. This includes digitally generated environments, characters, and effects such as explosions, weather, or fantastical creatures. VFX artists use software to seamlessly blend these elements with live footage, enhancing storytelling and bringing imaginative scenes to life. VFX can range from subtle background enhancements to spectacular, action-packed sequences. The field is constantly evolving with advances in technology and creativity.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a visual effects artist?

To thrive as a Visual Effects Artist, you need strong artistic ability, a solid understanding of animation and compositing principles, and often a relevant degree or portfolio demonstrating your skills. Proficiency with industry-standard software like Adobe After Effects, Autodesk Maya, Nuke, and Houdini is typically required, along with knowledge of rendering engines and scripting languages. Creativity, attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and effective communication help artists excel in collaborative, deadline-driven environments. These skills ensure the creation of high-quality, believable visual effects that enhance storytelling and meet production goals.

What are some common challenges faced by visual effects artists in collaborating with directors and other departments?

Visual effects artists often work closely with directors, cinematographers, and editors to ensure that VFX elements align with the creative vision of a project. One common challenge is adapting to last-minute changes from directors or integrating VFX seamlessly with practical footage, which can involve technical problem-solving and flexibility. Effective communication is essential, as VFX artists must clearly explain the possibilities and limitations of digital effects to non-technical team members. Building strong collaborative relationships helps streamline feedback loops and ensures the final product meets both artistic and technical standards.

What is the difference between Visual Effects vs Motion Graphics Designer?

AspectVisual EffectsMotion Graphics Designer
Primary FocusCreating realistic or fantastical effects integrated into live-action footageDesigning animated graphics and visual elements for videos and multimedia
Skills & ToolsCompositing, 3D modeling, software like After Effects, NukeAnimation, graphic design, software like After Effects, Illustrator
Work EnvironmentFilm, TV, advertising, post-production studiosAdvertising agencies, media companies, digital content studios
Industry UsageUsed to enhance live footage with effectsUsed to create animated titles, logos, and visual content

While both roles involve Adobe After Effects and visual creativity, Visual Effects specialists focus on integrating effects into live footage, whereas Motion Graphics Designers create animated graphics and visual content for various media. Both roles are essential in multimedia production but serve different purposes within the industry.

Is visual effects a good career?

Visual effects is a growing field within the entertainment industry that involves creating digital imagery for films, television, and video games. It requires skills in software such as Adobe After Effects and Autodesk Maya, along with a strong understanding of design and technical principles. The career can be competitive but offers opportunities for creative expression and advancement with experience and a strong portfolio.

Is visual effects a stressful career?

A career in visual effects can be stressful due to tight deadlines, high client expectations, and the need for technical precision. It often requires long hours, especially during project crunch times, and demands strong problem-solving skills and proficiency with software like After Effects or Nuke.

What are the most commonly searched types of Visual Effects jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Visual Effects jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Visual Effects jobs in Illinois?

For Visual Effects jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Visual Effects jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Visual Effects jobs in Illinois are:

Infographic showing various Visual Effects job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,063 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Adjunct Faculty in Visual Effects

Chicago, IL • On-site


DePaul University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

386th of 625 rated colleges and universities

Good employer

Recommended by students

Recommended by parents


Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Description
DePaul's Jarvis College of Computing & Digital Media (CDM) is located in the heart of Chicago's Loop, the central business district of Chicago. Our students represent many different experiences, perspectives, and cultures, and the university strives to recruit and sustain a faculty community where all backgrounds are valued and supported. Part-time teaching positions are available throughout the academic year, including summer sessions. Academic course schedules fluctuate from quarter to quarter, and the college will work with selected individuals to determine a quarterly schedule. Courses are not guaranteed, however the college does its best to give ample notice about available courses. Applicants with expertise that matches course scheduling needs will be contacted for an interview.
The School of Cinematic Arts (SCA) offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs incluuding Film and Television, Animation, Creative Producing, Documentary, and Screenwriting on the Loop campus and at DePaul Cinespace Studios. Find out more about SCA at https://www.cdm.depaul.edu/academics/Pages/School-of-Cinematic-Arts.aspx.
Qualifications
Minimum requirements include a master's degree in the discipline, or 18 semester/27 quarter hours of graduate work in the discipline, or an undergraduate degree with a minimum of five years demonstrated relevant professional experience. Exceptions may be considered with approval of the dean.
Application Instructions
DePaul University's School of Cinematic Arts is expanding its visual effects curriculum and hiring experienced visual effects artists to teach courses in all phases of the production pipeline.
Considerations:
Exceptions to standard rates may apply to courses with unique credit hours, supervision, labs, clinical/practicum courses, coaching, administrative tasks, and courses that are either over-enrolled or under-enrolled.
General Compensation/Benefits Statement:
DePaul University has provided a compensation range that represents its good faith estimate of what the University may pay for the position at the time of posting. The salary offered to the selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the qualifications, education, experience, and training of the selected candidate, the scope and responsibilities of the position, departmental budget availability, internal salary equity considerations, and available market information.
DePaul University offers a variety of benefit options for qualified part-time employees. Further information regarding benefits can be found here: https://offices.depaul.edu/human-resources/benefits/part-time/Pages/default.aspx
About DePaul University's Academic Calendar:
Except for the College of Law, DePaul University operates on a quarter system. Classes in Autumn, Winter, and Spring quarters are 11 weeks in length (including finals week) and Summer courses, in two sessions, are typically 5 weeks in length. The College of Law operates on the semester system. Classes in the Fall and Spring semesters are 16 weeks in length (including finals week) and it offers a Summer Session of 7 weeks (including final exams).


What DePaul University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom