Art Director, Motion

Thinkingbox

Art Director leading motion design projects at The Heist studio. Overseeing concept development and directing teams in a creative environment.

Posted 7/21/2026full-timeChicago • Illinois • 🇺🇸 United StatesLead💰 $120,000 - $150,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in motion design and animation, with a strong focus on visual storytelling, art direction, and team leadership. Proficient in industry-standard tools and techniques to create compelling motion graphics and elevate creative output.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Motion DesignArt DirectionVisual StorytellingTeam LeadershipAdobe Creative Suite

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Motion DesignAnimationVisual StorytellingTypographyColor TheoryDesign Principles3D Motion Graphics2D Motion GraphicsCreative DirectionPortfolio Development

Soft Skills

Communication SkillsMentorshipFeedback ProvisionStrategic ThinkingCollaboration

Tools & Technologies

Cinema 4DRedshiftAdobe After EffectsAdobe IllustratorAdobe PhotoshopAdobe PremiereHoudiniXParticlesMarvelous DesignerSubstance Painter

Industry Keywords

Creative DirectionMotion GraphicsCampaign NarrativesPitch DecksIndustry Trends

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

Amazon Redshift

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

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.

Requirements

What you’ll need

A stunning portfolio demonstrating strong art direction in motion across multiple styles and platforms.
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

Comp & perks

Flexible time off, including paid vacation and sick days
Consistent culture and team-building events
Employee recognition and incentive programs
Seasonal celebrations and gatherings throughout the year
Office lunches
Branded company swag
Access to industry events, learning opportunities, and non-profit outreaches
Dog-friendly offices
Unlimited coffee, drinks, and snacks
Flex work and travel options
Comprehensive extended health benefits
401k matching