Salary distribution
Where Illinois special effects artists and animators fall on the wage curve.
Shaded band = interquartile range (where most full-time workers fall)
The middle 50% of workers earn between $67,860 and $80,350, with a median of $74,850.
Special Effects Artists and Animators pay by experience level in Illinois
Each band reflects DOL Wage Levels I-IV mapped onto a four-step ladder. Click a level to see the disclosed-wage range for that segment.
Special Effects Artists and Animators in Illinois, by industry
Median offered wage across 3 certified filings, grouped by NAICS industry sector. Technology and software leads with a median of $90,136.
| Industry | Largest employer | Filings | Median offer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technology and software | ImmersiveTouch, Inc | 2 | $90,136 |
| Professional services | Creata (USA) Inc. | 1 | $80,288 |
Sectors with at least 25 filings link to a dedicated page with full distribution and sample employer breakdown.
Wage trend
Median annual wage in Illinois over the past 2 BLS OES releases. Real values are CPI-adjusted to 2024 dollars.
Typical entry
Education
Bachelor's degree
Experience
None
On-the-job training
None
Top skills (O*NET)
- 5.0 / 5
Computers and Electronics
Knowledge
- 4.4 / 5
English Language
Knowledge
- 4.2 / 5
Design
Knowledge
- 4.1 / 5
Oral Comprehension
Ability
- 4.1 / 5
Communications and Media
Knowledge
- 4.0 / 5
Written Comprehension
Ability
- 4.0 / 5
Oral Expression
Ability
- 4.0 / 5
Visualization
Ability
Common tasks (O*NET)
- 01
Design complex graphics and animation, using independent judgment, creativity, and computer equipment.
- 02
Create basic designs, drawings, and illustrations for product labels, cartons, direct mail, or television.
- 03
Participate in design and production of multimedia campaigns, handling budgeting and scheduling, and assisting with such responsibilities as production coordination, background design, and progress tracking.
- 04
Implement and maintain configuration control systems.
- 05
Script, plan, and create animated narrative sequences under tight deadlines, using computer software and hand drawing techniques.
- 06
Create two-dimensional and three-dimensional images depicting objects in motion or illustrating a process, using computer animation or modeling programs.
- 07
Develop briefings, brochures, multimedia presentations, web pages, promotional products, technical illustrations, and computer artwork for use in products, technical manuals, literature, newsletters, and slide shows.
- 08
Create and install special effects as required by the script, mixing chemicals and fabricating needed parts from wood, metal, plaster, and clay.
10-year outlook
Growth 2024 → 2034
+1.6%
Projected annual openings
—
BLS outlook
Slower than average
Source: BLS Employment Projections, 2024–2034 cycle.
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Metro-level salary data for special effects artists and animators in major Illinois metropolitan areas.
- Chicago$76,330
Compare Special Effects Artists and Animators pay across nearby states
Frequently asked questions
- What is the median salary for Special Effects Artists and Animators in Illinois?
- According to BLS Occupational Employment Statistics, the median annual wage for Special Effects Artists and Animators in Illinois is $74,850.
- How does Illinois compare to the national median for Special Effects Artists and Animators?
- The Illinois median is -16.6% versus the BLS national figure of $89,796.
- What is the salary range for Special Effects Artists and Animators in Illinois?
- BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $63,580 and the 90th-percentile at $105,000, which captures most full-time workers in the role.
- Is Special Effects Artists and Animators a growing field?
- BLS Employment Projections show employment growing by 1.6% over the projection cycle. See the 10-year outlook section above for details.
- What education is required for Special Effects Artists and Animators?
- BLS lists the typical entry-level education as Bachelor's degree. Many employers also weigh prior experience and credentials.
Information on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not career, financial, or tax advice. Wage data reflects BLS estimates for the reference year shown and may not match individual offers, employer-specific ranges, or current market conditions. Confirm with a licensed professional before making career or compensation decisions.