Motion Graphics Designer and Animator

📌 Core Information

🔹 Job Title: Motion Graphics Designer and Animator

🔹 Company: Sony Pictures Animation

🔹 Location: Los Angeles, California, United States

🔹 Job Type: On-site, Full-time

🔹 Category: Animation, Design

🔹 Date Posted: April 9, 2025

🔹 Experience Level: 2-5 years

🔹 Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

• Collaborating with story artists and the visual development team to create animated story sequences.
• Managing digital assets and developing creative work that enhances storytelling through motion graphics.
• Utilizing Adobe Creative Suite, Cinema4D, and other 3D applications to create advanced designs and animations.
• Working in a fast-paced production environment with tight schedules.
• Contributing to the creation of visually-groundbreaking and critically-acclaimed animated entertainment.

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong understanding of visual storytelling, motion graphics, and 3D design. Candidates should be comfortable working with industry-standard software and able to adapt to new technologies quickly.

📋 Key Responsibilities

✅ Work with story artists, the visual development team, and editors to create moving storyboards supporting the storytelling in sequences.

✅ Create animated graphics for storyboard sequences using AfterEffects and Photoshop.

✅ Assist in timing adjustments to animations.

✅ Brainstorm ideas for motion graphics.

✅ Manage digital assets and deliveries for the animations.

✅ Develop well-conceived creative work that pushes the story telling.

✅ Utilize Adobe Creative Suite, Cinema4D, and other 3D applications to create advanced designs and animations.

ASSUMPTION: The role requires a high level of creativity, technical skill, and attention to detail. Candidates should be able to work independently and take initiative while also collaborating effectively with team members.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Design, Animation, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

Experience: 2-5 years of experience in design, motion graphics, After Effects, and Photoshop in feature film, TV, or commercials.

Required Skills:

• Expertise in After Effects, Photoshop, and Illustrator.
• Expert knowledge of visual storytelling through motion.
• Proven skills with cinematography and staging.
• Critical eye for color, composition, lighting, art, animation, timing, and camera composition.
• Strong organizational skills, particularly managing and tracking multiple source elements.
• Ability to work well within a fast-paced production environment.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to present ideas in a clear, concise manner.
• Ability to work with a team and willingness to take initiative and work independently.
• Knowledge of current industry-standard post-production workflows and organization.
• Ability to learn quickly and adapt to new technologies and different work methodologies.
• Highly professional, with the ability to deliver solid work on tight schedules and work independently with little direction.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with 3D packages such as Maya, 3Ds Max, or Cinema 4D and Blender.
• Familiarity with the animation pipeline and workflow.

ASSUMPTION: Candidates should have a strong portfolio showcasing their design and animation skills, with a focus on storytelling through motion graphics.

💰 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $56.23 - $65.00 per hour. This role qualifies for benefits pursuant to the collective bargaining agreement.

Benefits:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) plan with company match
• Paid time off (vacation, sick, and holidays)
• Employee discounts on Sony products and services

Working Hours: Full-time, typically 40 hours per week. Overtime may be required to meet production deadlines.

ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for similar roles. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as experience, skills, and performance.

📌 Applicant Insights

🔍 Company Context

Industry: Sony Pictures Animation is a leading animation studio focused on creating visually-groundbreaking and critically-acclaimed animated entertainment for audiences around the world.

Company Size: With 201-500 employees, Sony Pictures Animation offers a medium-sized company environment with ample opportunities for collaboration and growth.

Founded: Established in 2002, Sony Pictures Animation has a rich history of producing popular animated films and series, including the Academy Award-winning "Spider-Man™: Into the Spider-Verse" and the hit film series "Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs" and "Hotel Transylvania".

Company Description:

• Sony Pictures Animation produces a variety of animated entertainment for audiences around the world.
• The studio is currently in production on several highly-anticipated feature films, including "Spider-Man™: Beyond the Spider-Verse" and "GOAT".
• Sony Pictures Animation is a division of the Sony Pictures Motion Pictures Group for Sony Pictures Entertainment, a subsidiary of the Tokyo-based Sony Group Corporation.

Company Specialties:

• Animation
• Film
• Family Entertainment
• Movies
• and TV

Company Website: http://www.sonypicturesanimation.com

ASSUMPTION: Sony Pictures Animation is a well-established company with a strong reputation for producing high-quality animated content. Candidates can expect a creative and collaborative work environment with opportunities for professional growth.

📊 Role Analysis

Career Level: This role is suitable for mid-level designers and animators with 2-5 years of experience in the industry.

Reporting Structure: The Motion Graphics Designer and Animator will report directly to the Visual Development Supervisor or a similar role.

Work Arrangement: This is an on-site, full-time position. Candidates should be prepared to work in a fast-paced production environment with tight deadlines.

Growth Opportunities:

• Sony Pictures Animation offers opportunities for career advancement within the company, such as promotions to senior roles or leadership positions.
• The company's diverse portfolio of projects provides opportunities to work on various genres and styles of animation.
• Candidates can gain experience working with industry-leading software and tools, as well as collaborate with talented artists and filmmakers.

ASSUMPTION: This role offers a unique opportunity for candidates to contribute to the creation of visually-groundbreaking and critically-acclaimed animated entertainment. Successful candidates can expect to work on high-profile projects and gain valuable experience in the animation industry.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: Sony Pictures Animation's headquarters is located in Culver City, California, with additional offices in other major cities worldwide.

Office Location(s): 9050 W Washington Blvd, Culver City, California, US

Geographic Context:

• Los Angeles is a major hub for the entertainment industry, offering numerous networking and professional development opportunities.
• The city is known for its diverse culture, vibrant arts scene, and beautiful beaches.
• Candidates should be prepared to work in a fast-paced, creative environment with tight deadlines.

Work Schedule: Full-time, typically 40 hours per week. Overtime may be required to meet production deadlines.

ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be comfortable working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and able to adapt to changing priorities and tight deadlines.

💼 Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

• Online application submission
• Phone or video screen with the HR department
• Art test or portfolio review
• In-person or video interview with the hiring manager and/or team members
• Final decision and offer

Key Assessment Areas:

• Creativity and artistic skills
• Technical proficiency with industry-standard software
• Storytelling abilities and understanding of visual narrative
• Communication and collaboration skills
• Adaptability and problem-solving skills

Application Tips:

• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experience for this specific role.
• Prepare a strong portfolio showcasing your design and animation skills, with a focus on storytelling through motion graphics.
• Be prepared to discuss your creative process and artistic influences during the interview.
• Research Sony Pictures Animation and familiarize yourself with their recent projects and company culture.

ATS Keywords: Motion Graphics, Animation, After Effects, Photoshop, Illustrator, 3D Design, Cinematography, Storytelling, Visual Narrative, Collaboration, Adaptability

ASSUMPTION: The application process for this role may involve multiple rounds of interviews and assessments, including an art test or portfolio review. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their technical skills and creative problem-solving abilities throughout the process.

🛠️ Tools & Technologies

• Adobe Creative Suite (After Effects, Photoshop, Illustrator)
• Cinema4D
• Other 3D applications (Maya, 3Ds Max, Blender)
• Industry-standard post-production workflows and organization

ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be proficient in using industry-standard software and able to learn new tools and technologies as needed.

👔 Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

• Creativity
• Collaboration
• Quality
• Innovation
• Respect

Work Style:

• Creative and innovative
• Collaborative and team-oriented
• Adaptable and flexible
• Results-driven and detail-oriented
• Committed to producing high-quality work

Self-Assessment Questions:

• Do you have a strong understanding of visual storytelling through motion?
• Are you comfortable working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment with tight deadlines?
• Do you have a strong portfolio showcasing your design and animation skills, with a focus on storytelling through motion graphics?
• Are you able to work independently and take initiative while also collaborating effectively with team members?

ASSUMPTION: Sony Pictures Animation values creativity, collaboration, and innovation. Candidates should be able to demonstrate their artistic skills and ability to work effectively in a team environment.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

• The fast-paced production environment may require working long hours and tight deadlines.
• The role may involve managing multiple source elements and tracking progress across various projects.
• Candidates should be prepared to work in a dynamic and ever-changing environment, with priorities and tasks shifting frequently.
• The animation industry can be competitive, and candidates may face challenges finding opportunities and advancing their careers.

ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be prepared to work in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, with the ability to adapt to changing priorities and tight deadlines.

📈 Similar Roles Comparison

• This role is similar to other Motion Graphics Designer and Animator positions in the animation industry, but may offer unique opportunities to work on high-profile projects and gain valuable experience.
• The animation industry is highly competitive, with a wide range of job opportunities available for talented artists and designers.
• Candidates may find opportunities for career advancement within Sony Pictures Animation or other animation studios, depending on their skills, experience, and performance.

ASSUMPTION: This role offers a unique opportunity for candidates to contribute to the creation of visually-groundbreaking and critically-acclaimed animated entertainment. Successful candidates can expect to work on high-profile projects and gain valuable experience in the animation industry.

📝 Sample Projects

• Creating animated story sequences for a feature film or TV series
• Developing motion graphics for a promotional campaign or commercial
• Designing and animating user interfaces for a video game or interactive application

ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be prepared to provide examples of their design and animation skills, with a focus on storytelling through motion graphics, during the application and interview process.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

• What are the most challenging aspects of this role, and how can I best prepare for them?
• How does this role fit into the overall production pipeline, and what are the key milestones and deadlines I should be aware of?
• What opportunities are there for professional growth and development within the company?
• How does Sony Pictures Animation support work-life balance for its employees?
• What are the most rewarding aspects of working on animated projects for Sony Pictures Animation?

ASSUMPTION: Candidates should use the interview process to gather information about the role, the company, and the team they will be working with. This will help them make an informed decision about whether the position is the right fit for their career goals and personal preferences.

📌 Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

• Submit your application through this link: https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/sonypicturesanimation/jobs/6537456003
• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experience for this specific role.
• Prepare a strong portfolio showcasing your design and animation skills, with a focus on storytelling through motion graphics.
• Be prepared to discuss your creative process and artistic influences during the interview.
• Follow up with the hiring manager one week after submitting your application to confirm receipt and reiterate your interest in the position.

⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.