Animator in Los Angeles, CA

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 Los Angeles, CA

87443 - 127070

25th percentile

87443

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

50th percentile

103163

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

127070

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

107748

131983

155890

Presentation Designer

78928

98905

113643

3D Modeler

76635

95303

116918

Digital Production Artist

75325

93665

117245

Graphic Designer

68120

88098

104145

Package Designer

73033

88425

108403

Illustrator/Infographics Designer

71395

84823

100870

Production Artist

69103

81548

90718

Production Coordinator

60915

67138

79255

Photographer

58295

76635

96285

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