Skydance
Skydance13h ago
New

2D Effects Artist (Temporary/Freelance)

United StatesUnited States·Santa MonicaRemoteFreelancemid
Other
0 views0 saves0 applied

Quick Summary

Overview

Skydance Animation is seeking a temporary freelance 2D Effects Animator to explore magical effects for an upcoming feature film.

Technical Tools
Other

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.

  • 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
  • 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

    Location & Eligibility

    Where is the job
    Santa Monica, United States
    Remote within one country
    Who can apply
    US

    Listing Details

    Posted
    July 20, 2026
    First seen
    July 21, 2026
    Last seen
    July 21, 2026

    Posting Health

    Days active
    0
    Repost count
    0
    Trust Level
    76%
    Scored at
    July 21, 2026

    Signal breakdown

    freshnesssource trustcontent trustemployer trust
    Skydance

    Skydance Media is a diversified media company founded in 2010 by David Ellison to create high-quality, event-level entertainment for global audiences.

    Employees
    350
    Founded
    2010
    View company profile
    Newsletter

    Stay ahead of the market

    Get the latest job openings, salary trends, and hiring insights delivered to your inbox every week.

    A
    B
    C
    D
    Join 12,000+ marketers

    No spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

    Skydance2D Effects Artist (Temporary/Freelance)