Senior 2D Animator

Summary

Join the Khan Academy Kids team as a Senior 2D Animator and bring charming characters and engaging animations to life for children aged 2-8. You will collaborate with a cross-functional team, using Rive software (or similar tools) to create playful learning experiences. This 12-month contract position offers a competitive hourly rate and the potential for conversion to a full-time role. The ideal candidate possesses 5+ years of 2D animation experience for mobile apps or media, specifically targeting early childhood audiences. A strong portfolio showcasing character, UI, and interactive animations is required for application. The role demands proficiency in modern animation tools and excellent communication skills.

Requirements

• Experience with Rive is not required, but adaptability to learn new tools is essential
• 5+ years of experience in 2D animation for mobile apps, games, or media
• Familiarity in developing animations for early childhood audiences (ages 2-8)
• Proficiency in modern animation tools
• Ability to balance creative vision with technical and production constraints in a collaborative, fast-paced environment
• Comfort working with engineers to ensure animations are efficiently integrated into interactive products
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for technical and non-technical collaborators
• Passion for early childhood education and children’s media and an attentiveness to what kids and families find fun and efficacious
• Motivated by the Khan Academy mission “to provide a free world-class education for anyone, anywhere

Responsibilities

• Bring to life charming characters, dynamic interface components, and captivating visual elements using Rive software
• Collaborate cross-functionally with 2D artists, product managers, engineers, and other animators to deliver playful, engaging animations
• Drive creative brainstorming and narrative strategies that connect meaningfully with young learners
• Harmonize animations with audio elements including music, sound effects, and narration
• Maintain consistency with the Khan Academy Kids visual style and brand guidelines
• Review work of others on the team and provide thoughtful feedback

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in Rive or state machines is preferred

Benefits

• This is a contract role of 40 hours/week for 12 months at $60/hr, depending on experience
• Depending on business need, there is potential for this role to convert to a full-time position down the line