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Animation Careers and Jobs

Select, Find and Prepare for Animation Careers and Jobs - all on one page

For visually creative people who also want to build technical software skills in a competitive field. Use the tools below to see which animation roles fit your background and goals.

This field splits sharply between 2D/traditional animation and 3D/technical animation, each requiring different software skill sets. Use the tools below to explore Animation-related job titles sorted by growth rate, salary, or required education. You can start with entry points like Junior Animator, or look ahead to advanced roles such as Lead Animator or Technical Director. Along the way, you will see specific certifications, such as Autodesk Certified Professional (Maya), that can help you move up the career ladder.



4 Steps to Use This Page: 1-Explore Careers of Intrerest 2-See Job Listings Matched to Career 3-Prepare for the Career 4-See External Career Resources

Here is a short Helper Video External Link

This page will take you through 4 steps to (1) Select from Animation careers/jobs, (2) Find Animation job listings, (3) Prepare for Animation careers, and (4) Provide Animation career-specific resources.

Step 1: Select a Career/Job: This page starts with 4 ways for you to identify and select from listings of Animation careers/jobs:
A) Fastest Growing Animation Careers - 2023 to 2033 (est.)
These listings are based on job growth estimates and helps you to identify the fastest growing and evolving Animation careers. Some careers may not initially seem related to Animation, so relevant Animation jobs are listed alongside each listing. This can also help us to identify which careers (bottom of the listing) may have negative growth - perhaps due to automation or planned obsolescence.
B) Median Annual Salary U.S. Animation Careers
These listings are sorted (descending) by median annual salary in the U.S. This may help us to identify our ideal career. We may not qualify at this time for the desired career, but this listing and the results provided can help us to explore job details, as well as learn how to appropriately prepare for the career.
C) Animation Career Ladders (Educational Requirements)
These listings will help us to identify Animation careers sorted by educational requirements (with the most difficult to obtain listed first). This may help us to identify career ladders (as we scroll down the list), and help us to get jobs that we qualify for now.
D) Select From a Listing of 25 Animation Jobs.
The list may be quite long. There are two ways you might like to use this list:
1) Filter - As you enter a word, you will filter (limit) the list of job titles
2) Browse the list (Don't Filter) - You can simply explore the list of job titles. There may be many that you might never have considered to be of interest.
Once you have identified a job title of interest, simply click on it.

Step 2: Find a Job: After you have selected a career/job title above, you will see a form asking for your location. You will see several radio selection choices to utilize the job search site of your choice.

Step 3: Prepare For a Career: In this section you will gain access to detailed information to help you prepare for the chosen career. Information may include (not every career choice includes all of the elements below - updates occur quarterly):
Core Duties: Lists the primary worker-related tasks performed in this occupation
Supplemental Duties: Lists additional tasks that are performed but are secondary to the core duties
Work Activities: Summarizes the broad types of behaviors and actions related to this career
Specific Work Activities: Provides more granular day-to-day activities tied to the work performed
Essential Skills: Provides foundational skills that are core to performing this specific occupation
Transferable Skills: Provides career-portable skills that can be applied across multiple occupations and industries
Day-in-the-Life Summaries: Provides a snapshot of the key activities performed on a typical workday in this career
Knowledge Required: Provides the requirements regarding the acquisition of facts and principles
Software Skills: Lists software tools commonly used in this occupation, organized by category and priority
Preparation Required: Provides a summary of the required experience and education
Education Required: Detailed breakdown of the education required
Training and Experience Required: Detailed breakdown of the training and Training and Experience Required
Local Salary Information: Provides national and local salary ranges
Certifications: Provides appropriate government and private-sector certifications and/or credentials that may be required
Professional Associations: Provides professional associations that are related to the career selected
Job Listings: Provides links to active current job listings for the selected career, along with multiple similar job titles to explore. All information appears on this page without navigating away.
Related Careers to Consider: Lists up to 20 careers that might be of interest to you (related to your initial choice - what they do, what they know, and what they're called), ranked by best fit.

** If you clicked on a link from section D (as described in Step 1 above), you will see one or more links to an occupation that is usually a bit more general than your initial job selection - the link(s) is directly related to the specific job you identified through your prior selections.
*NOTE: It is possible that there may not be a career path identified for the specific job you selected in Step 1. If this is the case, scroll up the page and click on a different career/job.

Step 4: Career-Specific Resources (detailed and constantly updated): Continue to scroll down the page and you will find tabs that provide detailed (updated) links specific to the career you selected. This information includes:
Videos: Provides a listing of video links related to this career. A great way to get a quick overview of the occupation.
Resumes: Sources for resume materials and techniques. This can help to get you started.
Job Description: Sources that provide job descriptions, which are vital to resume and interview preparation.
Interviews: Provides links that can help you to prepare for and successfully complete the job interview. Can also assist with coffee chats.
Step by Step: Provides links to resources that can help to organize the career search process.
LinkedIn: One of the best professional social media sites that provides links, opportunities, and networking specifically for careers and career development.




Step 1 of 4: Select a Career/Job

7 Animation careers are listed below (sorted by Percentage Change in Total Job Openings - 2023 to 2033 est.). Animation-related jobs specific to each career are also provided. This shows which careers are emerging and growing the fastest. Please Scroll and Select below:

Occupations U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033 (% change) Animation-Related Jobs

Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance 37% Special Effects Makeup Artist (Special Effects MUA)
Occupation: Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 37% Animation-Related Jobs: Special Effects Makeup Artist (Special Effects MUA)
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film 24.1% Animation Camera Operator
Occupation: Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 24.1% Animation-Related Jobs: Animation Camera Operator
Producers and Directors 24.1% Animation Director; Animation Producer
Occupation: Producers and Directors U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 24.1% Animation-Related Jobs: Animation Director; Animation Producer
Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators 17.3% 3D Artist (Three Dimensional Artist); 3D Artist (Three-Dimensional Artist); Animated Cartoons Painter
Occupation: Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 17.3% Animation-Related Jobs: 3D Artist (Three Dimensional Artist); 3D Artist (Three-Dimensional Artist); Animated Cartoons Painter
Special Effects Artists and Animators 15.8% 3D Animator (Three-Dimensional Animator); 3D Artist (Three-Dimensional Artist); 3D Designer (Three-dimensional Designer); 3D Modeler (Three-Dimensional Modeler); 3D Specialist (Three-Dimensional Specialist); Animation Artist; Animation Producer; Animator; Cartoon Animator; Civil 3D Designer (Civil Three-Dimensional Designer); Special Effects Artist; Special Effects Designer; Special Effects Specialist; Special Effects Technician; Storyboard Artist; Technical Animator; Video Game Animator
Occupation: Special Effects Artists and Animators U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 15.8% Animation-Related Jobs: 3D Animator (Three-Dimensional Animator); 3D Artist (Three-Dimensional Artist); 3D Designer (Three-dimensional Designer); 3D Modeler (Three-Dimensional Modeler); 3D Specialist (Three-Dimensional Specialist); Animation Artist; Animation Producer; Animator; Cartoon Animator; Civil 3D Designer (Civil Three-Dimensional Designer); Special Effects Artist; Special Effects Designer; Special Effects Specialist; Special Effects Technician; Storyboard Artist; Technical Animator; Video Game Animator
Radiologic Technologists and Technicians 8.6% 3D Technologist
Occupation: Radiologic Technologists and Technicians U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 8.6% Animation-Related Jobs: 3D Technologist
Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technicians 4.4% 3D Printing Tech (Three Dimensional Printing Technician)
Occupation: Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technicians U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 4.4% Animation-Related Jobs: 3D Printing Tech (Three Dimensional Printing Technician)

8 Animation careers are listed below (sorted by U.S. National Median Salary). Animation-related jobs specific to each occupation are also provided. Please Scroll and Select below::

Occupations National Median Salary Animation-Related Jobs

Special Effects Artists and Animators $ 99,060 3D Animator (Three-Dimensional Animator); 3D Artist (Three-Dimensional Artist); 3D Designer (Three-dimensional Designer); 3D Modeler (Three-Dimensional Modeler); 3D Specialist (Three-Dimensional Specialist); Animation Artist; Animation Producer; Animator; Cartoon Animator; Civil 3D Designer (Civil Three-Dimensional Designer); Special Effects Artist; Special Effects Designer; Special Effects Specialist; Special Effects Technician; Storyboard Artist; Technical Animator; Video Game Animator
Occupation: Special Effects Artists and Animators National Median Salary: $ 99,060 Animation-Related Jobs: 3D Animator (Three-Dimensional Animator); 3D Artist (Three-Dimensional Artist); 3D Designer (Three-dimensional Designer); 3D Modeler (Three-Dimensional Modeler); 3D Specialist (Three-Dimensional Specialist); Animation Artist; Animation Producer; Animator; Cartoon Animator; Civil 3D Designer (Civil Three-Dimensional Designer); Special Effects Artist; Special Effects Designer; Special Effects Specialist; Special Effects Technician; Storyboard Artist; Technical Animator; Video Game Animator
Video Game Designers $ 98,540 Three Dimensional Artist (3D Artist)
Occupation: Video Game Designers National Median Salary: $ 98,540 Animation-Related Jobs: Three Dimensional Artist (3D Artist)
Producers and Directors $ 82,510 Animation Director; Animation Producer
Occupation: Producers and Directors National Median Salary: $ 82,510 Animation-Related Jobs: Animation Director; Animation Producer
Radiologic Technologists and Technicians $ 73,410 3D Technologist
Occupation: Radiologic Technologists and Technicians National Median Salary: $ 73,410 Animation-Related Jobs: 3D Technologist
Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technicians $ 62,610 3D Printing Tech (Three Dimensional Printing Technician)
Occupation: Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technicians National Median Salary: $ 62,610 Animation-Related Jobs: 3D Printing Tech (Three Dimensional Printing Technician)
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film $ 61,800 Animation Camera Operator
Occupation: Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film National Median Salary: $ 61,800 Animation-Related Jobs: Animation Camera Operator
Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators $ 59,300 3D Artist (Three Dimensional Artist); 3D Artist (Three-Dimensional Artist); Animated Cartoons Painter
Occupation: Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators National Median Salary: $ 59,300 Animation-Related Jobs: 3D Artist (Three Dimensional Artist); 3D Artist (Three-Dimensional Artist); Animated Cartoons Painter
Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance $ 47,390 Special Effects Makeup Artist (Special Effects MUA)
Occupation: Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance National Median Salary: $ 47,390 Animation-Related Jobs: Special Effects Makeup Artist (Special Effects MUA)

8 Animation careers are listed (sorted by Education/Preparation Requirements - descending) to provide career ladders. Animation-related jobs specific to each career are also provided.

Education/Preparation Categories:
5 = Usually requires graduate school (e.g., Master's degree, Ph.D., M.D., or J.D.)
4 = Usually requires a four-year Bachelor's degree
3 = Usually requires vocational training, related on-the-job experience, or Associate's degree
2 = Usually requires a high school diploma or GED, but not always
Please Scroll and Select below:
Occupations Education/Preparation Animation-Related Jobs

Producers and Directors 4 Animation Director; Animation Producer
Occupation: Producers and Directors Education/Preparation: 4 Animation-Related Jobs: Animation Director; Animation Producer
Special Effects Artists and Animators 4 3D Animator (Three-Dimensional Animator); 3D Artist (Three-Dimensional Artist); 3D Designer (Three-dimensional Designer); 3D Modeler (Three-Dimensional Modeler); 3D Specialist (Three-Dimensional Specialist); Animation Artist; Animation Producer; Animator; Cartoon Animator; Civil 3D Designer (Civil Three-Dimensional Designer); Special Effects Artist; Special Effects Designer; Special Effects Specialist; Special Effects Technician; Storyboard Artist; Technical Animator; Video Game Animator
Occupation: Special Effects Artists and Animators Education/Preparation: 4 Animation-Related Jobs: 3D Animator (Three-Dimensional Animator); 3D Artist (Three-Dimensional Artist); 3D Designer (Three-dimensional Designer); 3D Modeler (Three-Dimensional Modeler); 3D Specialist (Three-Dimensional Specialist); Animation Artist; Animation Producer; Animator; Cartoon Animator; Civil 3D Designer (Civil Three-Dimensional Designer); Special Effects Artist; Special Effects Designer; Special Effects Specialist; Special Effects Technician; Storyboard Artist; Technical Animator; Video Game Animator
Video Game Designers 4 Three Dimensional Artist (3D Artist)
Occupation: Video Game Designers Education/Preparation: 4 Animation-Related Jobs: Three Dimensional Artist (3D Artist)
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film 3 Animation Camera Operator
Occupation: Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film Education/Preparation: 3 Animation-Related Jobs: Animation Camera Operator
Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators 3 3D Artist (Three Dimensional Artist); 3D Artist (Three-Dimensional Artist); Animated Cartoons Painter
Occupation: Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators Education/Preparation: 3 Animation-Related Jobs: 3D Artist (Three Dimensional Artist); 3D Artist (Three-Dimensional Artist); Animated Cartoons Painter
Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technicians 3 3D Printing Tech (Three Dimensional Printing Technician)
Occupation: Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technicians Education/Preparation: 3 Animation-Related Jobs: 3D Printing Tech (Three Dimensional Printing Technician)
Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance 3 Special Effects Makeup Artist (Special Effects MUA)
Occupation: Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance Education/Preparation: 3 Animation-Related Jobs: Special Effects Makeup Artist (Special Effects MUA)
Radiologic Technologists and Technicians 3 3D Technologist
Occupation: Radiologic Technologists and Technicians Education/Preparation: 3 Animation-Related Jobs: 3D Technologist

Scroll through the picklist (below). There are 25 specific Animation job titles listed. Select those that may be of interest - you will get active job listing links, along with detailed resources to help you prepare for a career related to that job.
You can use this form two ways:

hidden filler

Filter - As you enter a keyword, you will filter (limit) the list of job titles below

Browse the list (Don't Filter) - You can simply explore the list of job titles. There may be many that you might never have considered to be of interest.

Enter a Keyword (filter the list below)
OR - leave blank and scroll through the choices:



Select a Job Title (Scroll and Select) :

Step 2 of 4: Find a Job

Find Job Listings: Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators.


Search results will open in a new tab.

Note: Job search results work best for U.S.-based locations. For international searches, try searching for "[job title] in [city, country]" directly on the selected job board, or visit their country-specific website.

Step 3 of 4: Prepare For a Career





Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators

Description: Create original artwork using any of a wide variety of media and techniques.

U.S. Total Employment (2023):
25,900
U.S. Total Employment (2033 est.):
30,400
Employment Change (2023-2033 est.):
4,500 (17.3%)
Average Annual Job Openings (2023-2033 est.):
3,300
Please click on a section below to expand and see detailed occupational information related to "Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators":

Core Duties

Important Core Job Duties (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 97 (%) Description: Integrate and develop visual elements, such as line, space, mass, color, and perspective, to produce desired effects, such as the illustration of ideas, emotions, or moods.
Importance: 90 (%) Description: Use materials such as pens and ink, watercolors, charcoal, oil, or computer software to create artwork.
Importance: 83 (%) Description: Study different techniques to learn how to apply them to artistic endeavors.
Importance: 82 (%) Description: Maintain portfolios of artistic work to demonstrate styles, interests, and abilities.
Importance: 81 (%) Description: Photograph objects, places, or scenes for reference material.
Importance: 74 (%) Description: Confer with clients, editors, writers, art directors, and other interested parties regarding the nature and content of artwork to be produced.
Importance: 69 (%) Description: Monitor events, trends, and other circumstances, research specific subject areas, attend art exhibitions, and read art publications to develop ideas and keep current on art world activities.
Importance: 67 (%) Description: Market artwork through brochures, mailings, or Web sites.
Supplemental Duties
Important Supplemental Job Duties (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 66 (%) Description: Submit preliminary or finished artwork or project plans to clients for approval, incorporating changes as necessary.
Importance: 64 (%) Description: Create sketches, profiles, or likenesses of posed subjects or photographs, using any combination of freehand drawing, mechanical assembly kits, and computer imaging.
Importance: 61 (%) Description: Set up exhibitions of artwork for display or sale.
Importance: 56 (%) Description: Develop project budgets for approval, estimating time lines and material costs.
Importance: 53 (%) Description: Cut, bend, laminate, arrange, and fasten individual or mixed raw and manufactured materials and products to form works of art.
Importance: 52 (%) Description: Submit artwork to shows or galleries.
Importance: 51 (%) Description: Shade and fill in sketch outlines and backgrounds, using a variety of media such as water colors, markers, and transparent washes, labeling designated colors when necessary.
Importance: 51 (%) Description: Create finished art work as decoration, or to elucidate or substitute for spoken or written messages.
Importance: 48 (%) Description: Trace drawings onto clear acetate for painting or coloring, or trace them with ink to make final copies.
Importance: 47 (%) Description: Create sculptures, statues, and other three-dimensional artwork by using abrasives and tools to shape, carve, and fabricate materials such as clay, stone, wood, or metal.
Importance: 46 (%) Description: Collaborate with writers who create ideas, stories, or captions that are combined with artists' work.
Importance: 45 (%) Description: Frame and mat artwork for display or sale.
Importance: 44 (%) Description: Teach artistic techniques to children or adults.
Importance: 43 (%) Description: Create and prepare sketches and model drawings of cartoon characters, providing details from memory, live models, manufactured products, or reference materials.
Importance: 40 (%) Description: Render drawings, illustrations, and sketches of buildings, manufactured products, or models, working from sketches, blueprints, memory, models, or reference materials.
Importance: 36 (%) Description: Brush or spray protective or decorative finishes on completed background panels, informational legends, exhibit accessories, or finished paintings.
Importance: 35 (%) Description: Apply solvents and cleaning agents to clean surfaces of paintings, and to remove accretions, discolorations, and deteriorated varnish.
Importance: 32 (%) Description: Collaborate with engineers, mechanics, and other technical experts as necessary to build and install creations.
Importance: 27 (%) Description: Model substances such as clay or wax, using fingers and small hand tools to form objects.
Importance: 26 (%) Description: Provide entertainment at special events by performing activities such as drawing cartoons.
Work Activities

Important General Work Activities (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 96 (%) Description: Thinking Creatively: Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Importance: 78 (%) Description: Getting Information: Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Importance: 74 (%) Description: Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work: Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Importance: 71 (%) Description: Making Decisions and Solving Problems: Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Importance: 71 (%) Description: Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships: Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Importance: 69 (%) Description: Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge: Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Importance: 69 (%) Description: Working with Computers: Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Importance: 67 (%) Description: Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings: Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Importance: 67 (%) Description: Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials: Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Importance: 63 (%) Description: Handling and Moving Objects: Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Specific Work Activities

Important Specific Work Activities
How can you begin to build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation. Specific Work Activities appear below:
Apply finishes to artwork, crafts, or displays.
Apply paint to surfaces.
Arrange artwork, products, or props.
Build models, patterns, or templates.
Clean objects.
Clean surfaces in preparation for work activities.
Collaborate with others to determine technical details of productions.
Collaborate with others to prepare or perform artistic productions.
Conduct research to inform art, designs, or other work.
Construct distinctive physical objects for artistic, functional, or commercial purposes.
Coordinate logistics for productions or events.
Develop artistic or design concepts for decoration, exhibition, or commercial purposes.
Draw detailed or technical illustrations.
Entertain public with comedic or dramatic performances.
Estimate costs for projects or productions.
Immerse objects or workpieces in cleaning or coating solutions.
Maintain records, documents, or other files.
Monitor current trends.
Operate still or video cameras or related equipment.
Perform marketing activities.
Prepare materials for preservation, storage, or display.
Present work to clients for approval.
Research new technologies.
Send information, materials or documentation.
Teach classes in area of specialization.
Knowledge Required

Knowledge Required (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 85 (%) Description: Design: Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Importance: 83 (%) Description: Computers and Electronics: Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Importance: 76 (%) Description: English Language: Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Importance: 70 (%) Description: Production and Processing: Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Importance: 68 (%) Description: Fine Arts: Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
Importance: 67 (%) Description: Education and Training: Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Importance: 66 (%) Description: Communications and Media: Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
Importance: 65 (%) Description: Customer and Personal Service: Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Importance: 63 (%) Description: Mathematics: Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Importance: 60 (%) Description: Administration and Management: Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Essential Skills

Essential Skills (in order of importance)
These are the foundational skills most central to success in this occupation. For the Top 5 most important, how can you begin building experience and confidence using these skills now?
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 54 (%) Description: Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Importance: 54 (%) Description: Active Learning: Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Importance: 52 (%) Description: Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Day-in-the-Life Summaries

Day-in-the-Life Summaries
These summaries show the main types of activities you are likely to perform on a regular basis in this occupation. How can you imagine your typical workday — using these examples to see if this type of work fits you?
Activity: Apply decorative finishes.
Activity: Apply protective solutions or coatings.
Activity: Arrange displays or decorations.
Activity: Assemble products or work aids.
Activity: Clean tools, equipment, facilities, or work areas.
Activity: Clean workpieces, finished products, or other objects.
Activity: Communicate with others about specifications or project details.
Activity: Create artistic designs or performances.
Activity: Create decorative objects or parts of objects.
Activity: Create visual designs or displays.
Activity: Direct organizational operations, activities, or procedures.
Activity: Estimate project development or operational costs.
Activity: Explain technical details of products or services.
Activity: Maintain current knowledge in area of expertise.
Activity: Maintain operational records.
Activity: Monitor external affairs, trends, or events.
Activity: Operate audiovisual or related equipment.
Activity: Prepare industrial materials for processing or use.
Activity: Present arts or entertainment performances.
Activity: Process shipments or mail.
Activity: Promote products, services, or programs.
Activity: Research technology designs or applications.
Activity: Teach academic or vocational subjects.
Software Skills

Software Skills
These are examples of software tools commonly used in this occupation, organized from most to least important for your career preparation. How can you start learning or practicing the highest-priority tools so that you feel confident using them on the job?
High-Priority Tech Skills
Graphics or photo imaging software:
Adobe Illustrator
Adobe Photoshop
Widely Used Tech Skills
Graphics or photo imaging software:
Autodesk Maya
Emerging Tech Skills
Accounting software:
Intuit QuickBooks
Computer aided design CAD software:
Autodesk AutoCAD
Trimble SketchUp Pro
Desktop publishing software:
Adobe InDesign
Document management software:
Adobe Acrobat
Enterprise application integration software:
Extensible markup language XML
Graphics or photo imaging software:
Adobe Creative Cloud software
Object or component oriented development software:
C#
C++
Python
Office suite software:
Microsoft Office software
Presentation software:
Microsoft PowerPoint
Video creation and editing software:
Adobe After Effects
Web page creation and editing software:
Facebook
Web platform development software:
Hypertext markup language HTML
JavaScript
Word processing software:
Microsoft Word
General Software Tools
Computer aided design CAD software:
Autodesk 3D Studio Design
Dassault Systemes CATIA
Configuration management software:
Perforce Helix software
Data base user interface and query software:
ArtScope.net eArtist
Camp Software Art Licensing Manager
FileMaker Bento
GYST
Desktop communications software:
ClassDojo
Desktop publishing software:
Adobe FrameMaker
Development environment software:
Adobe ActionScript
Unity Technologies Unity
Unreal Technology Unreal Engine
Document management software:
Code Line Art Files
Electronic mail software:
Email software
Graphics or photo imaging software (scroll table below):
Adobe FreeHand MX
Adobe ImageReady
Corel CorelDraw Graphics Suite
Corel Paint Shop Pro
Corel Painter
Corel Photo-Paint
Inkscape
Microsoft Paint
Paintbrush
Pixologic Zbrush
Serif DrawPlus
SmugMug Flickr
Xara Designer Pro X
Instant messaging software:
GroupMe
Twitter
Internet browser software:
Web browser software
Point of sale POS software:
Credit card processing software
Project management software:
WorkingArtist Systems WorkingArtist
Web page creation and editing software:
Adobe Dreamweaver
Preparation Required
Preparation Required - How much preparation is needed to obtain this type of job?
Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed

Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.

These occupations usually involve using communication and organizational skills to coordinate, supervise, manage, or train others to accomplish goals. Examples include hydroelectric production managers, desktop publishers, electricians, agricultural technicians, barbers, court reporters and simultaneous captioners, and medical assistants.
Education Required

Education Required - by frequency of educational attainment
This shows you details about the level of education most commonly held by workers in this occupation. How can you begin planning the educational pathway that will prepare you best for this type of work?
Frequency of Attainment (%) Level of Education
Frequency of Attainment: 37.0 (%) Level of Education: Some College Courses
Frequency of Attainment: 35.1 (%) Level of Education: Bachelor's Degree
Frequency of Attainment: 27.3 (%) Level of Education: High School Diploma - or the equivalent (for example, GED)
Frequency of Attainment: 0.3 (%) Level of Education: Post-Secondary Certificate - awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in agriculture or natural resources, computer services, personal or culinary services, engineering technologies, healthcare, construction trades, mechanic and repair technologies, or precision production)
Frequency of Attainment: 0.3 (%) Level of Education: First Professional Degree - awarded for completion of a program that: requires at least 2 years of college work before entrance into the program, includes a total of at least 6 academic years of work to complete, and provides all remaining academic requirements to begin practice in a profession.
Training and Experience Required

Training and Experience Required - by frequency of training and work experience attainment
This section shows you how often different types of training and work experience are required for this occupation. How can you start gaining the kinds of experience and training that are most common for this type of work?
Frequency of Attainment (%) Level of Training and Work Experience
Frequency of Attainment: 27.0 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 4 years, up to and including 6 years
Frequency of Attainment: 22.8 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 3 months, up to and including 6 months
Frequency of Attainment: 18.8 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years
Frequency of Attainment: 18.5 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year
Frequency of Attainment: 12.1 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 2 years, up to and including 4 years
Frequency of Attainment: 0.6 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: None
Frequency of Attainment: 0.3 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months
Certifications
Certifications
These are examples of certifications that may be important for this occupation. How can you begin exploring which certifications fit your goals and what steps you would need to take to earn them?
Certified Medical Illustrator External Link
Professional Associations
Professional Associations
These associations connect people who work in this occupation or related fields. How can you start using these associations to learn more, build your network, or find mentoring opportunities?
American Guild of Variety Artists (AGVA) External Link
Association of Medical Illustrators (AMI) External Link
Center for Book Arts (CBA) External Link
College Art Association (CAA) External Link
Society of Decorative Painters (SDP) External Link
Job Listings
Job Listings and Similar Occupational Titles - scroll and click to identify common requirements, keywords, and skills in current job listings
3D Artist (Three Dimensional Artist)
3D Artist (Three-Dimensional Artist)
Animated Cartoons Painter
Artist
Artist in Residence (AIR)
Automotive Artist
Balloon Artist
Blacksmith
Book Illustrator
Card Painter
Caricature Artist
Cartoon Artist
Cartoonist
Character Artist
Color Artist
Comic Artist
Comic Book Artist
Comic Book Designer
Comic Illustrator
Commercial Artist
Commercial Illustrator
Commercial Retoucher
Concept Artist
Concrete Sculptor
Crayon Painter
Custom Motorcycle Painter
Delineator
Editorial Cartoonist
Exhibit Artist
Fashion Artist
Fashion Illustrator
Fine Artist
Forensic Artist
Freelance Artist
Fresco Artist
Glass Artist
Graphic Illustrator
Histological Illustrator
Ice Carver
Ice Sculptor
Illustrator
Landscape Artist
Landscape Painter
Manga Artist
Medical Artist
Medical Illustrator
Motion Picture Cartoonist
Motion Pictures Cartoonist
Multimedia Illustrator
Mural Painter
Muralist
Newspaper Illustrator
Non-Representational Metal Sculptor
Oil Painter
Painter
Patent Illustrator
Pattern Illustrator
Picture Painter
Police Artist
Political Cartoonist
Portrait Artist
Portrait Painter
Printmaker
Production Artist
Production Illustrator
Quick Sketch Artist
Reproduction Artist
Resident Artist
Scene Painter
Scenic Artist
Scientific Artist
Scientific Illustrator
Sculptor
Set Illustrator
Silhouette Artist
Sketch Artist
Specialty Artist
Sports Cartoonist
Stained Glass Artist
Stained Glass Painter
Statuary Painter
Statue Maker
Suspect Artist
Tattoo Designer
Technical Artist
Technical Illustrator
Texture Artist
VFX Artist (Visual Effects Artist)
Visual Artist
Water Colorist
Watercolor Artist
Related Careers to Consider
Related Careers to Consider
This lists up to 20 careers that might be of interest to you (related to what "Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators" do, what they know, and what they're called), ranked by best fit. How do these related occupations align with your interests, skills, and goals?
1 - Special Effects Artists and Animators
2 - Graphic Designers
3 - Craft Artists
4 - Etchers and Engravers
5 - Art Directors
6 - Set and Exhibit Designers
7 - Photographers
8 - Painting, Coating, and Decorating Workers
9 - Commercial and Industrial Designers
10 - Fashion Designers
11 - Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers
12 - Painters, Construction and Maintenance
13 - Prepress Technicians and Workers
14 - Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance
15 - Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic
16 - Photographic Process Workers and Processing Machine Operators
17 - Poets, Lyricists and Creative Writers
18 - Video Game Designers
19 - Interior Designers
20 - Desktop Publishers


Step 4 of 4: Career-Specific Resources

This section contains detailed external resources appropriate to "Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators". Explore these resources to start learning more. Links are constantly updated, so bookmark this page.

Videos

Here is a listing of videos related to this career. A great way to get a quick overview of the occupation.


Resumes

Here are resources that allow you to see example resumes for this occupation. It may be helpful to see examples from others who have this type of experience.


Job Description

Here are resources that provide job descriptions, which are vital for resume and interview preparation.


Interviews

There are many great resources that can help guide you through the interview process. These links provide help in preparing and performing an effective interview, specific to this occupation.


Salary Data

Here are links to help you identify salary ranges for this occupation. These data are necessary prior to effective salary negotiations.


Raises

Here are resources that help you to prepare to ask for a raise. These links will help you to prepare for the salary negotiation process.


Jobs

Here are resources that lead to links for actual jobs related to "Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators". Use these links to find a job.


Jobs

Here are resources that lead to links for actual jobs related to "Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators". Use these links to find a job.


Classifieds

There are various sources for job classified ads. These links should help get you started to find a job for this occupation.


Step-by-Step

Here are links to help guide you, step-by-step, to become a(n): Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators


Career Change

Here are resources to help you prepare for a career change. It is helpful to look carefully at the information provided in Section 3: Career Change (detailed previously on this page) prior to using these links. There is much to learn ...


LinkedIn®

Here are links to various posts and groups from LinkedIn ® that relate to this occupation. Great way to start building professional contacts in the field that might be most appropriate for you.


Career Path

Here are links to various resources to help you explore the career path related to the "Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators" occupation.






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