Hand Drawn Animator
30AI CAN DO30%moving to95%
THE DOOR, NOWC
THE DOOR, 20 YRSE
STARTING PAY£20,000 - £25,000
NO MOATNo physical, legal or personal barrier protects this work from software.
CAREERMASH (EN)FROM CREATIVE ARTS AND DESIGN →
Hand Drawn Animator
Hand drawn animators are the creative visionaries who breathe life into characters and stories through traditional animation techniques. In a world increasingly dominated by digital media, their artistry preserves a unique, nostalgic charm that captivates audiences of all ages, making them essential in the entertainment industry both in the UK and globally.
AI helps here, but has not taken over
AI can already do some of this job, but the day-to-day work still leans on a person to decide, check and take responsibility. Nothing formally protects this job though, so the safest move is to keep building the judgement AI cannot yet copy.
Career progression path
1FIRST STEPJunior AnimatorAs a Junior Animator, you will assist in creating animations under the guidance of senior animators, gaining valuable experience in the animation pipeline.£20,000 - £25,000
2GAINING EXPERIENCEMid-Level AnimatorIn this role, you will take on more responsibility, leading projects and mentoring junior animators while continuing to develop your artistic skills.£26,000 - £32,000
3PEAK CAREERSenior AnimatorAs a Senior Animator, you will oversee animation projects, manage teams, and contribute to the creative vision of the studio.£35,000+
There is more than one way in
You do not have to go the university route to get here. There is also a vocational route that skips a degree entirely. Some employers will take you on here with no formal qualifications at all, if you can show you can do the work.