2D Effects Artist (Temporary/Freelance)

Skydance

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Santa Monica, Los Angeles remote Until 9/19/2026 1+ years exp First posted July 21, 2026 Last posted July 21, 2026
Job description
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.

Responsibilities

  • 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

Requirements

  • 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
About this role

Summary

Create 2D effects for animated film, focusing on magic, water, fire, and smoke.

Job title

2D Effects Artist (Temporary/Freelance)

Experience level

1+ years

Minimum experience

1+ years exp

Industry

animation

Location requirements

Must be in California, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, UK, or Spain. Remote work not specified.

Salary

$115k–$140k

Management role

No

Skills & keywords

Required skills

PhotoshopNukeAfter EffectsToon Boom HarmonyTVPainttimingweightphysics

Preferred skills

None specified

Specializations

effectsanimationdigital effectsvisual development
Locations

Structured locations inferred from the posting.

California, USA

Remote State

Connecticut, USA

Remote State

New York, USA

Remote State

New Jersey, USA

Remote State

United Kingdom

Remote Country

Spain

Remote Country