What is the median salary for Special Effects Artists and Animators in Missouri?

According to BLS Occupational Employment Statistics, the median annual wage for Special Effects Artists and Animators in Missouri is $72,320.

How does Missouri compare to the national median for Special Effects Artists and Animators?

The Missouri median is -19.5% versus the BLS national figure of $89,796.

What is the salary range for Special Effects Artists and Animators in Missouri?

BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $50,220 and the 90th-percentile at $81,210, 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.

Special Effects Artists and Animators Salary in Missouri

Median annual$72,320

Mean annual$71,280

Range (10th to 90th)$50,220 to $81,210

Missouri employment100

State vs national-19.5% vs national

Salary distribution

Where Missouri special effects artists and animators fall on the wage curve.

Annual wage distribution

Shaded band = interquartile range (where most full-time workers fall)

The middle 50% of workers earn between $58,700 and $76,800, with a median of $72,320.

By seniority

Special Effects Artists and Animators pay by experience level in Missouri

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.

Entry →Mid →Senior →Lead →

Wage trend

Median annual wage in Missouri over the past 2 BLS OES releases. Real values are CPI-adjusted to 2024 dollars.

Median annual wage, Missouri2023 to 2024

Typical entry

Education
Bachelor's degree
Experience
None
On-the-job training
None

Top skills (O*NET)

Computers and Electronics
Knowledge
5.0 / 5
English Language
Knowledge
4.4 / 5
Design
Knowledge
4.2 / 5
Oral Comprehension
Ability
4.1 / 5
Communications and Media
Knowledge
4.1 / 5
Written Comprehension
Ability
4.0 / 5
Oral Expression
Ability
4.0 / 5
Visualization
Ability
4.0 / 5

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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Top metros in Missouri

Metro-level salary data for special effects artists and animators in major Missouri metropolitan areas.

Kansas City$73,800
St. Louis$71,440

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 Missouri?: According to BLS Occupational Employment Statistics, the median annual wage for Special Effects Artists and Animators in Missouri is $72,320.
How does Missouri compare to the national median for Special Effects Artists and Animators?: The Missouri median is -19.5% versus the BLS national figure of $89,796.
What is the salary range for Special Effects Artists and Animators in Missouri?: BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $50,220 and the 90th-percentile at $81,210, 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.

Disclaimer

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.