Animators create visual effects and animations for various media, including films, video games, and online content. They use computer software and traditional techniques to bring characters and scenes to life.


Typical Salary

£20,000 – £50,000

per year

Working Hours

35–40

hours per week

Career Area

Graphic and multimedia designers

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Day-to-day tasks

Daily tasks for animators typically involve:

  • Creating storyboards and character designs
  • Developing animations using software
  • Collaborating with directors and other team members
  • Reviewing and revising animations based on feedback
  • Keeping up with industry trends
  • Managing project timelines
  • Ensuring quality and consistency in animations

Skills needed

  • knowledge of media production and communication
  • design skills and knowledge
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • thinking and reasoning skills
  • the ability to use your initiative
  • the ability to work well with your hands
  • to be flexible and open to change
  • knowledge of the fine arts
  • to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

How to get into this role

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • a college course
  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role
  • specialist training courses

Career progression

With experience you could:

  • become a lead animator or animation director
  •  work for a large animation studio, game developer, interactive media designer or video post-production company
  •  become a freelance animator
  •  start your own animation studio