What Does an Animator Do?
Animators oversee the creation of two-dimensional (2D), three-dimensional (3D) or computer-generated images within the entertainment, gaming and advertising industries. They typically draw the images by hand or use computer software for their creations. Throughout the process, they collaborate with other animators, get advice from senior animators and use feedback from clients to further evolve their projects. An Animator’s day-to-day responsibilities often involve working on a team to complete assigned graphic elements with the goal of meeting project deadlines.
Animator Skills and Qualifications
A successful Animator candidate will have the following prerequisite skills and qualifications:
- Excellent creativity and originality
- Superior graphic design skills
- Superior knowledge of the 12 principles of animation such as staging, timing, ease in, ease out and anticipation
- Proficiency in the use of design and animation software
- In-depth understanding of mathematical and geometric concepts
- Knowledge of color theory
- Great attention to detail
- Ability to work in large teams
Animator Salary Expectations
Salary depends on whether you are mainly focusing on 2D or 3D animated projects. A 2D animator salary is about $20.66 per hour while a 3D animator can make about $17.44 per hour. Salary will vary depending on education, experience and if the position is full or part-time.
Animator Salary Expectations
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Common salary:
24.05 HOURLY -
Typical salaries range from
7.25 -62.30 HOURLY - Find more information on Indeed Salaries
*Indeed data –
Animator Education and Training Requirements
Typically, becoming an Animator requires at least a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, Animation or any related discipline. These courses will offer modules in visual effects, drawing and illustration, modeling and rendering and lighting. However, it’s not unusual for Animators to hold only an Associate’s degree. Postgraduate degrees in film animation or web publishing are also useful, depending on the area of specialization.
Animator Experience Requirements
A qualified Animator candidate will have a minimum of one year’s experience in the field. They should be familiar with conceptualizing characters from the ideation phase to sketching, into the final creation. Animators should be comfortable working with computer graphics tools, and using them to create storyboards for animation projects. An experienced animator should have a proven record of delivering artistic work to client specifications and within the required timelines.
Job Description Samples for Similar Positions
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