Skip to main content
Skydance

2D Effects Artist (Temporary/Freelance)

SkydanceΒ·about 2 months ago

πŸ“ ContractπŸ“ˆ Mid LevelπŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ Santa Monica, USAπŸ“… Jul 20, 2026
Skydance Animation is seeking a temporary freelance 2D Effects Animator to explore magical effects for an upcoming feature film. The effects created will help shape the film's visual tone and push its artistic language forward. While the focus will be primarily on magic, there will be additional work in water, fire, smoke, debris, and other elemental effects, all developed to align with the film's artistic aesthetic. You'll work closely with the Visual Development team and report to the Production Designer.
Demo reel or portfolio required, demonstrating a range of 2D effects work. Reels highlighting effects timing, physics, and integration with character performance are strongly preferred over technique reels alone.
Must be in one of the following locations: California, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, United Kingdom, or Spain.

Responsibilities

  • Design 2D effects, both hand-drawn and digitally composited, that elevate character performance and enhance the emotional weight and cinematic quality of every scene
  • Collaborate with the Production Designer, show leadership, and Visual Development artists to iterate on and develop magical effects
  • Brainstorm, define, and help establish the visual language for varying styles of magic across the film
  • Maintain consistency and nuance in effects style and timing across sequences, factoring in weight, physics, and elemental performance within a narrative context
  • Apply core animation principles to ensure fluid, believable motion and clear, readable silhouettes
  • Troubleshoot and problem-solve technical and creative effects challenges within pipeline constraints

Requirements

  • 1+ year of experience in 2D animation or visual development, with a focus on effects
  • Traditional 2D animation background
  • Proficiency in relevant animation/effects software (e.g., Photoshop, Nuke, After Effects, Toon Boom Harmony, TVPaint, or similar)
  • Strong grasp of timing, weight, and physics as applied to effects animation
  • Ability to take direction and iterate quickly
  • Creative mindset with the ability to conceptualize ideas and bring them to life
The compensation range for this non-exempt position in Los Angeles, CA or the Tri-State Area (New York, Connecticut, and New Jersey) is $115,00-140,000 annually. The rate offered may vary based on the candidate’s location, qualifications, experience and relevant expertise, among other factors.  The range indicated is for base salary only and does not reflect the total compensation package, including bonus, benefits, etc. 
This compensation range is not applicable to the United Kingdom and Spain. 
#Animation

Market context

Measured from remote postings we have tracked ourselves β€” not self-reported survey data.

What Mid Level Design roles in Americas pay

25th
$78k
Median
$103k
75th
$145k

Based on 1,208 comparable postings with disclosed salaries, last 12 months.

How Skydance is hiring

Last 90 days
13 roles
Total tracked
60
Hiring across
9 job families

Tracked since July 2025.

Browse Similar Jobs