Animator
Use computer software, creative thought and artistic flair to bring 2D and 3D images to life.
Job opportunities
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Jobs in SEEK right now
Job growth
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5-year projection
Salary
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Typical salary
Job satisfaction
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Job opportunities
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Jobs in SEEK right now
Salary
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Typical salary
Job growth
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5-year projection
Job satisfaction
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What's it like to be an Animator?
Animators manipulate still images (called frames) to create the illusion of movement. Animation was traditionally performed with pen and paper, but modern animators use computers daily and work with 2D and 3D imagery, as well as using software to create special effects including stop-motion, pixilation and rotoscoping.
Tasks and duties
- Liaising with clients and stakeholders to determine scope and specifics of design brief.
- Preparing sketches, diagrams, illustrations and layouts to communicate design concepts.
- Designing storyboards to illustrate the intended narrative.
- Using computer software to design 2D frames, 3D frameworks and animated content.
- Negotiating design solutions with clients and stakeholders.
Depending on the style of animation (2D or 3D), different techniques may be applied. 2D animation involves the creation and sequencing of still frames to create the illusion of movement, while 3D animation uses digital frameworks to which different textures, effects and animations are then added.Animators commonly work in large teams at creative agencies, and at film or TV studios. Animators may also work freelance.
How to become an Animator
It is possible to work as an Animator without formal qualifications, however many employers prefer individuals to have qualifications in the field of design.
- Complete a qualification in Design. This may be a Certificate IV in Screen and Media (CUA41215), Certificate IV in Design (CUA40715), Diploma of Design or Bachelor degree majoring in Design.
- Develop a portfolio of work to show prospective employers. This can include work you’ve done on mock animation projects.
- Set up a blog or a website to showcase your portfolio.
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Find out how your salary compares with the average salary for Animators.
Latest Animator jobs on SEEK
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Skills and experience employers are looking for
Having the right skills and experience can make you an in-demand applicant. Animator employers on SEEK are looking for job seekers with expertise in the following areas.
Source: SEEK job ads and SEEK Profile data
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Latest Animator reviews
May 2021
Reviewer's Qualification
Bachelor of Animation (Character Animation)
Experience
Less than a year
Organisation size
Small (1-19 employees)
Specialisation
Animation Marketing
The good things
If you have a creative drive and enjoy making art, you will be working on it everyday.
The challenges
Despite art and animation being something enjoyable, when it becomes more 'work' than 'fun' it does sap your creative drive and energy a bit. You will find it tough to work on your own projects or dif...
Read more
Nov 2018
Reviewer's Qualification
Bachelor of Fine Arts (Film and Television)
Experience
1 – 4 years
Organisation size
Small (1-19 employees)
Specialisation
Video Editing
The good things
There is something special about creating something from nothing, seeing the finished product onscreen and everybody's talents coming together; all put on display by you. The moment in the edit room w...
The challenges
You will be expected to give up a lot of your free time, and work when it suits the studio or the client. It can be frustrating dealing with clients who know very little about your industry and/or giv...
Read more
Source: SEEK role reviews
SEEK has not verified the truth or accuracy of these comments and does not adopt or endorse any of the comments posted on this page.SEEK collects and posts the comments for what they are worth and for information purposes only to assist candidates to find employment through seek.com.au
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