What jobs are there in are there in the animation industry, and which ones are in demand?
As technology and software improves, the animation job market is constantly changing. As someone looking to get into the industry, it's probably quite daunting to know where to begin. From entertainment to education—there is a plethora of potential pathways. Furthermore, with the power that new technology brings, the ease and availability of tutorials, and brilliant tools like Pinterest, there’s arguably never been a more exciting time to join this creative field. But what does the job market look like for animators, and what types of animators are really in high demand? Below, we’ll explore the roles animators, the specialized roles on the rise, core skills every aspiring animator should develop, and helpful tips to land those coveted high-demand positions in your animation career.
Key Takeaways
- The animation industry is extremely varied, leading to many different career opportunities.
- Entertainment (film, TV, gaming) remains the largest employer for animators, but other sectors such as medical, advertising, and corporate have many uses too.
- Freelance and in-house paths both offer unique advantages—your choice depends on creative goals and personal preferences.
- A strong portfolio, continuous skill-building, and networking are key to landing high-demand roles.
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Where is the Demand for Animators?
A Varied Discipline
The animation world is extremely varied, providing a wealth of job opportunities for newcomers and seasoned professionals alike. The animation market has seen rapid growth and expansion, offering diverse opportunities for careers within the industry. From big-budget feature films and cutting-edge video games to mobile apps and corporate presentations, there are many ways to get into the animation industry.
Despite strong competition—particularly in high-profile sectors—animators who keep pace with industry trends and hone their skills often discover numerous chances for growth and professional development. This section details some of the main types of organisations where animators are needed.
Animation Studios
Joining an animation studio like Myth is the best way to start a career in animation. Small studios like Myth have a flat management structure, meaning there is lot's of room to have your voice heard. They are often reminiscent of a renaissance atelier - where a 'master' would run the studio, with apprentices that learn on the job while helping with production. If you are smart, ambitious and willing to both learn and put ideas forward, there are many opportunities to get experience across different styles and stages in the process. Check the Myth Studio Careers page regularly to see if there are any openings!
Entertainment
When it comes to hiring animators, the entertainment industry (film, TV, and gaming) has multiple areas that require animators, particularly in animated films.
- Feature animation films
- Television shows
- Video games
Emerging platforms like streaming services and YouTube are also fuelling demand, making the entertainment industry a robust space for both 2D and 3D animation talent.
Business
An equally significant trend is the growing demand for animators in non-entertainment sectors. Animators are increasingly employed to create interactive videos and virtual reality environments, enhancing engagement and functionality in fields like medical visualization, automotive design, and corporate training. Fields like medical visualization, automotive design, and corporate training increasingly utilize interactive media, motion graphics, and virtual reality. As technology continues to evolve, these sectors will likely require more staff for product demos, e-learning content, and internal communications. Usually, an animator or motion designer working in a business or corporation might be in a small team, and they will be expected to create relatively low-level work, but across a wide range of executions. For example, they might make small animations for social media, internal comms, presentations or the website.
Agencies
Advertising & marketing agencies, PR companies and film production companies may hire in-house animators instead of working directly with a studio. In this case, you would generally need to be fairly experienced and versatile. This type of position favours a generalist. Often these posts are filled or supported by highly paid freelancers.
Types of Animation Jobs
3D Animators
From character animation, fluid simulation, VFX, 3D motion design; ultimately, this could be an article in itself, as there are so many different types of roles within 3D animation. Strong 3D animators are generally required to be generalists and should have a strong understanding of several software suites.
2D Animators
While 3D may dominate blockbuster projects, 2D animation continues to thrive in most other realms of animation; including TV shows, mobile apps, indie games, and explainer videos. This classic genre remains popular for its charm and accessibility, ensuring consistent demand for adept 2D animators. Within 2D, techniques range from frame-by-frame to vector. I'd recommend learning After Effects.
Storyboard Artists
Every great animation starts with a solid plan, and storyboard artists are key to that process. By sketching sequences and framing shots, they set the narrative and visual tone for the entire project. Their ability to translate written scripts into compelling visuals makes them indispensable.
Character Designers & Background Artists
From designing memorable heroes and sidekicks to crafting the worlds they inhabit, character designers and background artists shape the look and feel of any animated production. Their unique artistic sensibilities drive the emotional and aesthetic impact of animated stories.
5. Motion Designers
The art of moving graphic design, there is always demand for truly skilled motion designers. This is an area where the truly elite are always booked, but requires a lot of practice and dedication to get there.
6. AI Animators
A new and emerging field, much is yet to be discovered in this realm. As AI technology develops, the need for artists and storytellers that are able to harness the new generation of tools will be required in a number of industries.
Essential Skills for Aspiring Animators
Animation Software Proficiency
Mastery of software such as **After Effects, Cinema4D,**Maya, Blender, or a frame-by-frame software such as Toon-Boom or Adobe Animate are all skills that are needed in the animation industry. Mastering various animation techniques, along with software proficiency, is crucial for bringing characters and environments to life. Each platform has unique strengths—3D rigging, 2D tweening, or motion graphics—so a broad understanding of multiple tools ensures adaptability to various projects and studios.
Storytelling & Creativity
Technology alone isn’t enough. Animators must possess a strong sense of storytelling to breathe life into characters and scenes. Imaginative narratives, compelling plots, and distinct visual styles help animators stand out in a crowded market.
Collaboration & Communication
Animation is rarely a solo endeavour. Understanding the animation process, including pre-production and post-production roles, is crucial for effective collaboration. Projects often involve large teams—directors, producers, designers, and audio specialists—working together. Being able to communicate clearly, adapt based on feedback, and meet deadlines as part of a cohesive unit is crucial for success.
Freelance vs. In-House Animation Jobs
The Freelance Path
Freelance animators benefit from flexible schedules, the chance to set their own rates, and freedom to select which projects they take on. However, this path demands strong self-motivation, marketing efforts, and the ability to balance multiple clients. Income can vary, and there are no company benefits or guaranteed work.
The In-House Option
In contrast, in-house animators enjoy stable employment with benefits like healthcare, vacation time, and structured career growth. They collaborate with a consistent team and typically have access to high-end resources and software. On the flip side, they often have less creative autonomy, and upward mobility can be tied to the company’s trajectory.
Tips for Landing High-Demand Animation Jobs
Create a Showreel
Make a showreel of less than 60 seconds. Only put in your best work. Showreels are all about quality over quantity. Contrary to popular belief, my opinion as a studio owner is that none of the work in your showreel needs to be client work. You can pack it with purely personal work to make something really impressive if you haven't had many - or any - clients.
Build a Portfolio Website
Your portfolio is your calling card. Include a variety of projects that showcase your creativity, technical abilities, and range—everything from short character animations to detailed environmental scenes. Keep it updated and accessible, preferably on a personal website or professional platform.
Seek Experience & Keep Learning
Take on internships, personal passion projects, or online courses to sharpen your skills. Working on diverse assignments expands your skillset and proves your adaptability. Regularly explore new techniques and features in animation software to stay ahead of industry trends.
Network & Stay Current
Attending industry conferences, joining animator groups on social media, and connecting via professional platforms like LinkedIn can open doors. Networking is a powerful way to discover job leads and collaborations. Meanwhile, following reputable animation news sites (e.g., Animation World Network, Cartoon Brew) helps you stay updated on industry developments.
Persistence & Scale
If at first you don't succeed, email, email, and email again. Check Myth's career page for opportunities regularly. If people don't respond, don't give up. Personally, when Myth is in need of a new pair of hands, I check through the database or inbox to see if there is someone who matches what we currently need.
Summary
The animation job market is volatile, but there is a wide array of opportunities. There will always be demand for highly skilled people. Experience counts, but great taste counts even more. Aspiring animators should keep experimenting with new tools, keep looking for inspiration in new places, and build a portfolio of personal work. Whether you opt for the freelance route or prefer a stable in-house position, having a well-rounded portfolio and a keen sense of ongoing professional development will keep exciting doors open to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Will animators be in demand? Yes! According to industry projections, animators will continue to be in high demand for films, TV, games, and emerging fields like AR/VR and corporate training, with various roles contributing to the success of an animated project.
- Which type of animation is most popular? 3D animation is widely used across entertainment, advertising, and tech, but 2D retains strong popularity, especially in television and indie projects.
- Is it difficult to get hired as an animator? Competition is stiff, especially at top studios. A strong portfolio, relevant experience, and networking can greatly improve your chances.
- Are animators only hired by movie and gaming companies? Not at all—medical, automotive, and corporate sectors also need animators for product demos, training videos, and more.
- What core skills do I need to succeed as an animator? Mastering software, refining storytelling and creativity, and honing collaboration and communication skills are key for a successful career in animation.
Animation, at its heart, is about breathing life into ideas—and with the industry’s steady growth, skilled animators have every reason to be optimistic. By focusing on the right skills and seizing opportunities to innovate, you can carve out a path in the world of animation.
