Animator in Chicago, IL

Animator Job Description

Animators breathe life and personality into characters, scenes and other animation elements used to tell stories in cartoons, films, video games, commercials, social media and more. These creative professionals create and sequence multiple images, referred to as “frames,” to give the illusion of movement. An animator might employ digital images, hand-drawn illustrations, models or other types of images and props to create special effects and other animations using computer-generated animation, 2D or 3D model-making, or stop-frame tools and techniques. Employers seek animators with a vivid imagination who are collaborative and receptive to feedback and can work diligently under pressure. Multimedia experience, including in emerging areas like virtual reality (VR), and video editing expertise are highly valued. A bachelor’s degree in computer animation, fine arts or graphic arts is often preferred for this role. Most employers will require candidates to provide a solid portfolio of relevant creative work, including hand-drawn character designs and animation clips.

Typical animator duties:

Creating character sketches, designing backgrounds and other elements, and developing storyboards for animation projects

Reading through scripts, and brainstorming and conceptualizing compelling images to help tell stories in an engaging, memorable way

Working closely with a wide range of team members throughout projects, including artists, story editors, photographers, designers, other animators, voice actors and producers

Ensuring final deliverables are high quality and delivered on time and on budget

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Salary for Animator in Chicago, IL

81435 - 118340

25th percentile

81435

The candidate is new to the role and building the needed skills, experience and autonomy.

50th percentile

96075

The candidate has the experience to perform core responsibilities without direct supervision and is comfortable with the role’s processes and subject matter.

75th percentile

118340

The candidate delivers value beyond the stated job duties, has advanced qualifications and experience, and is ready for the next career level.

Projected salaries for related positions

Position title

25th percentile

50th percentile

75th percentile

Art Director

100345

122915

145180

Presentation Designer

73505

92110

105835

3D Modeler

71370

88755

108885

Digital Production Artist

70150

87230

109190

Graphic Designer

63440

82045

96990

Package Designer

68015

82350

100955

Illustrator/Infographics Designer

66490

78995

93940

Production Artist

64355

75945

84485

Production Coordinator

56730

62525

73810

Photographer

54290

71370

89670

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