Job Descriptions/ Animator

Animator Job Description: Duties, Skills, Education & Salary

An animator creates moving images using drawings or computer software to bring characters and stories to life. They work in films, TV, games, or ads to entertain and engage audiences through visual storytelling.

Attract top professionals with our job-post-ready animator job description template. It includes key responsibilities, essential skills, educational requirements, and salary insights.

Jun 5, 2025

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Animator Job Description Template

Job Title: Animator

Location: [Insert Location]

Job Type: [Full-time/Part-time/Contract]

Reports To: Animation Director / Creative Lead

About the Role

We’re looking for a talented Animator to bring stories and characters to life through captivating visuals. As the bridge between creativity and technology, you’ll create dynamic animations that engage audiences. This role requires artistic skill, technical expertise, and a passion for storytelling.

Animator Job Responsibilities and Duties

  • Create 2D or 3D animations for films, games, or digital media using software tools
  • Collaborate with directors, artists, and designers to develop animation concepts
  • Develop storyboards and animatics to plan and refine animation sequences
  • Ensure animations align with project vision, style, and technical requirements
  • Edit and refine animations based on feedback from creative teams
  • Maintain organized project files and document animation processes
  • Stay updated on animation trends, tools, and industry standards
  • Align work with creative goals and production timelines
  • Communicate progress and creative ideas to team members and supervisors

Animator Qualifications and Skills

  • Strong artistic and animation abilities
  • Deep expertise in animation principles and storytelling techniques
  • Excellent proficiency with animation software (e.g., Adobe Animate, Maya, Blender)
  • Experience in 2D or 3D animation for media projects
  • Ability to adapt to different animation styles and project needs
  • Strong collaboration and communication skills
  • Creative and detail-oriented approach

Education and Experience Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Animation, Graphic Design, Fine Arts, or related field preferred; equivalent experience accepted
  • 2+ years of experience in animation or related creative roles
  • Strong portfolio showcasing animation projects (2D, 3D, or motion graphics)
  • Familiarity with game engines (e.g., Unity, Unreal) or VFX pipelines is a plus
  • Certifications in animation software (e.g., Autodesk Maya Certified Professional) are a plus

To apply, send your resume, portfolio, and a brief cover letter explaining your animation experience. Email your application to [email protected] or call +1 999999999 for more information.

Animator Average Salary

In the U.S., Animators typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry (e.g., film vs. gaming). Those with specialized skills or in high-demand studios may earn additional bonuses. 

Hire the Right Animator Today

A clear and well-defined job description helps you attract top Animators. It helps attract skilled professionals who create stunning visuals, enhance storytelling, and drive creative projects.

Furthermore, you can enhance your candidate search by using AI recruitment software like Skima AI. It offers an AI search feature that allows you to search for top applicants by just typing what you want, like a Google search.

For example, type "Animator with 2 years of experience in New York", and it will search millions of profiles globally and then rank the best ones for you. Skima AI is the leading recruiter-centric platform, trusted by top hiring teams. Start your free trial now.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is an animator?

An animator is a creative professional who produces sequences of images, known as frames, that simulate movement when played in rapid succession. They work in various media, including film, television, and video games, bringing characters and scenes to life.

2. What does an animator do?

An animator conceptualizes and creates animated sequences by designing characters, backgrounds, and storyboards. They use specialized software to develop motion graphics, ensuring that animations align with project narratives and visual styles.

3. What are the responsibilities of an animator?

Animators are responsible for developing storyboards, designing characters and environments, creating frame-by-frame animations, and collaborating with directors and other team members to produce cohesive animated content.

4. How to hire an animator?

To hire a skilled animator, assess candidates' portfolios for creativity and technical proficiency. Platforms like Skima AI streamline this process by providing access to pre-vetted professionals, ensuring a match that fits your project's needs.