Animation
Recently there is a decline of traditional animation, and an increase of computer animation jobs. Animation companies exist worldwide, and some also specialize in television, commercials, design, visual effects and films.
What it Takes
- Your job search arsenal includes a website, reel, resume, cover letter, business cards and software experience.
- Save everything. Get your work in a digital form, and store it securely.
- Experience is crucial. Prove yourself doing volunteer and internship work, and it will lead to other offers.
- Network. Nearly all hiring/offers for work come through relationships.
- Skill Set: Knowing the following areas: Traditional Hand-Drawn animation, CGI, Stop Motion. Additional Software: Maya, Cinema 4D, Blender, After Effects and others.
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Sample Job Titles
Art Director
Animation Director
Assistant Director
Assistant Editor
CG Rigging
CG Supervisor
Character Animator
Character Designer
Concept Artist
Compositor
Director
Director of Photography
Editor
Environments Designer
Effects Designer
Graphics Operator
Graphics/Titles Designer
Junior Animator
Layout Artists
Lead Animator
Lighting Supervisor
Lighter
Modeling Supervisor
Modeler
Motion Graphics
Pre-Vis Artists
Producer
Project Manager
Production Designer
Production Assistant
Post Production Coordinator
Post Production Supervisor
Post Producer
Producer
Rigger
Screenwriter
Script Coordinator
Script Supervisor
Storyboard Artists
Storyboard Assistant
Storyboard Supervisor
Sculpture
Technical Director
Texture Artist
VFX Coordinator
VFX Supervisor
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Key Companies
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Chicago Area Resources
Women in Film: Chicago Organization featuring networking and professional development opportunities
Chicago Filmmakers: Workshops, networking, and equipment rental
Chicago Film Office: Coordinates filming in Chicago
Illinois Production Guide: Search production companies and other film-related resources
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National Resources
Animation World Network news, jobs, stories, interviews
Animation Career Review – mega database profiling different careers, salaries, skillsets, companies, etc.
Chris Oatley – a blog featuring a Disney Character Designer who answers your questions about Concept Art & Illustration
Film Specific: Business support for filmmakers
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Job Boards
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At Columbia
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Events
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