Art Director – Motion

Thinkingbox

full-time

Posted on: 1/21/2026

Location Type: Hybrid

Location: Chicago • Illinois • United States

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About the role

Lead concept development and the realization of creative direction for motion projects.
Create styleframes and storyboards that define tone, motion language, and aesthetic.
Oversee/guide and participate in the execution of 3D/2D motion graphics, ensuring quality and cohesion.
Collaborate with creative directors, producers, and designers to shape campaign narratives.
Give thoughtful and actionable feedback that elevates the work.
Direct small to mid-size teams of animators and designers across various projects.
Contribute to pitch decks, treatments, and new business efforts when needed.
Stay ahead of industry trends, tools, and techniques to continuously elevate our creative output.

7+ years of experience in motion design or animation, with at least 1-2 years in a senior or leadership role.
Strong background in visual storytelling, typography, color theory, and design principles.
Expertise in Cinema 4D, Redshift, and Adobe Creative Suite (After Effects, Illustrator, Photoshop, Premiere).
Familiarity with Houdini, XParticles, Marvelous Designer, or Substance Painter is a bonus.
Excellent communication skills – both visual and verbal.
Ability to manage timelines, provide mentorship, and balance hands-on work with strategic thinking.
A deep passion for craft and a desire to push what’s possible in motion.

Benefits

Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills & Tools

motion designanimationvisual storytellingtypographycolor theorydesign principles3D motion graphics2D motion graphicscreative directionstoryboarding

Soft Skills

communication skillsmentorshipstrategic thinkingteam leadershipcollaborationfeedbackcreativitytime managementproblem-solvingpassion for craft