Character Designer at Disney Television Animation
Company: Disney Television Animation (Disney Branded Television)
Location: Glendale, California, United States
Job Type: Full-Time, On-Site
Salary: $59.16 – $65.87 per hour (California pay scale, per Collective Bargaining Agreement)
About Disney Television Animation
Disney Television Animation (DTVA), part of Disney Branded Television under The Walt Disney Company, has over 40 years of legacy producing kids and family entertainment. The studio creates long-form and short-form content across traditional 2D, rig-based 2D, CG (preschool and premium), and stop-motion formats.
DTVA is committed to matching top creative talent with the right production style, ensuring innovative storytelling and high-quality animated content for global audiences.
Job Overview
As a Character Designer, you will play a vital role in shaping the storytelling process by developing the look, personality, and overall feel of characters. Your designs will capture each character’s individuality, life, and style while maintaining the artistic vision established by the Executive Producer and Art Director.
This evergreen posting remains active until June 30, 2026, and applicants may be considered for current and future Character Designer openings.
Key Responsibilities
- Create character turnarounds, special poses, mouth charts, and expression sheets.
- Deliver clean passes of final approved character designs.
- Collaborate closely with the Art Director to review storyboards and determine character design needs per episode.
- Maintain the visual style and quality standards set by the Executive Producer and Art Director.
- Prepare character design packages for overseas animation studios.
- Resolve design challenges while meeting strict production deadlines.
- Adhere to schedules provided by the Line Producer to ensure cost-effective and timely production.
Required Qualifications & Skills
- Strong ability to design diverse characters, including turnarounds, mouth charts, expression sheets, and dynamic poses.
- Ability to align with the established style and sensibility of a show.
- Skilled in translating references into 2D or 3D artwork.
- Proficiency in drawing software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and applicable 3D tools.
- Strong organizational, verbal, written, and digital communication skills.
- Positive attitude with flexibility in a fast-paced production environment.
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Animation, Illustration, Fine Arts, or equivalent professional experience.
Compensation & Benefits
- Hourly pay range aligned with California Collective Bargaining Agreement.
- Medical, financial, and additional benefits based on level and position.
- Opportunity to contribute to globally recognized animated productions.
- Career growth within Disney Branded Television and The Walt Disney Company.