Salary distribution
Where Philadelphia 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 $53,630 and $77,350, with a median of $73,590.
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.
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Explore coursesOther metros in Pennsylvania
How the Philadelphia metro compares to other major Pennsylvania metro areas for special effects artists and animators.
- Pittsburgh$48,990
Frequently asked questions
- What is the median salary for Special Effects Artists and Animators in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania?
- According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Special Effects Artists and Animators in the Philadelphia metropolitan area is $73,590.
- Does Philadelphia pay more than the Pennsylvania state average for Special Effects Artists and Animators?
- The Philadelphia metro median is +21.9% versus the Pennsylvania state median of $60,390.
- How does Philadelphia compare to the national median for Special Effects Artists and Animators?
- The Philadelphia metro median is -18.0% versus the BLS national figure of $89,796.
- What is the salary range for Special Effects Artists and Animators in Philadelphia?
- BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $49,230 and the 90th-percentile at $107,470 for the Philadelphia metro area.
- 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. BLS metro estimates reflect the Philadelphia CBSA boundary 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.