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. Creating character sketches, designing backgrounds and other elements, and developing storyboards for animation projectsReading through scripts, and brainstorming and conceptualizing compelling images to help tell stories in an engaging, memorable wayWorking closely with a wide range of team members throughout projects, including artists, story editors, photographers, designers, other animators, voice actors and producersEnsuring final deliverables are high quality and delivered on time and on budget Search for Animator jobs in New York, NY or request talent now and our expert recruiters will be with you shortly.Robert Half can assist you with your animator recruitment needs in New York.
Adobe After Effects
Adobe Animate
Adobe Flash
Adobe Illustrator
Adobe Photoshop
Animation
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Character Animation
Characters
Design
Salary for Animator in New York, NY
$87,975 - $125,925
25th percentile
$87,975
New to the role, with little or no experience; requires more than casual instruction or supervision to perform day-to-day duties
50th percentile
$105,570
Has the experience to consistently perform core responsibilities without direct supervision; very comfortable with processes and subject matter associated with the role
75th percentile
$125,925
Value to the organization goes far beyond the ability to perform normal job duties; has rare qualifications that enable consistent contribution in unique ways; ready for next career level when available
Projected salaries for related positions Position title 25th percentile 50th percentile 75th percentile Art Director $110,055 $134,895 $159,390 3D Animator $89,355 $105,570 $130,065 3D Modeler $78,315 $97,290 $119,370 Digital Artist $77,280 $96,255 $120,405 Presentation Designer $81,075 $101,430 $116,610 Graphic Designer $70,380 $91,080 $107,640 Packaging Designer $74,520 $90,390 $110,745 Illustrator/Infographics Designer $70,035 $84,525 $103,500 Photo Retoucher $63,825 $83,835 $107,640 Photographer $60,375 $79,695 $100,050 Production Artist $71,415 $84,180 $93,840 Production Coordinator $64,170 $69,000 $81,420
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