Concept Artist (2D Character Designer)

Childhood Cancer Society; Austin (TX); Remote; USD 45,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative organization is seeking a passionate 2D Character Designer to create original character concepts that inspire hope and positivity. In this role, you will collaborate with the Project Manager and Art Department to design imaginative characters for animations and illustrations that resonate with children and families facing pediatric cancer. This position offers the opportunity to work remotely, allowing you to contribute your artistic skills to a meaningful cause while engaging in a creative and collaborative environment. If you have a strong portfolio and a desire to make a difference, this could be the perfect role for you.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in concept art, visual development, or animation.
• Strong illustration skills with attention to detail and design clarity.
• Experience animating designs or preparing files for 2D animation.

Responsibilities

• Design original 2D characters and props from concept sketches to fully rendered designs.
• Create environment designs that align with our story and branding.
• Develop mood boards and quick sketches to inspire visual direction.

Skills

Concept Art

Digital Illustration

Attention to Detail

Character Design

Collaboration

Animation

Tools

Photoshop

Procreate

Clip Studio Paint

After Effects

Toon Boom

Job description

As a 2D Character Designer (Concept Artist) at Childhood Cancer Society, you’ll play a key role in developing original character concepts that bring our stories and initiatives to life. You’ll collaborate closely with the Project Manager and the Art Department to design imaginative, expressive characters that enhance animations, illustrations, and branded content—all while reflecting the heart of our mission: inspiring hope, positivity, and adventure for children and families facing pediatric cancer.

Key Responsibilities

• Design original 2D characters, creatures, and props—ranging from rough concept sketches to fully rendered designs.

• Create environment designs for the characters that align with our story, mission, and branding.

• Create concept art specifically for 2D illustration and animation use.

• Develop thoroughly researched mood boards and multiple quick iterative sketches to inspire visual direction and new themes.

• Work closely with the Project Manager and Art Department to align designs with narrative goals and animation functionality.

• Ensure strong composition and placement within design frames, especially for storytelling scenes.

• Apply feedback constructively and revise designs with clarity and intention.

• Available to meet twice weekly via webcam (Mondays & Thursdays, 8:30-9:30pm EST) with an engaged presence.
  
  

Qualifications:

• Strong illustration skills with attention to detail, anatomy, shape language, and design clarity.

• Deep understanding of composition, staging, and visual hierarchy.

• Understanding of character performance, posing, and storytelling through motion.

• Proficiency in digital illustration tools (e.g., Photoshop, Procreate, Clip Studio Paint).

• Ability to adhere to Brand Guidelines, Brand Strategy, and Creative Direction.

• Strong collaborative spirit and ability to accept and apply creative feedback.

• Experience animating your own designs or preparing layered files for 2D animation.

• Proficient in creating character turnarounds, pose sheets, and expression sheets to support visual development.

• A portfolio that demonstrates strong character designs.
  
  

Remote: Yes

Skills required:

• 2+ years of experience in concept art, visual development, or animation (student work counts!).

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

• Highly motivated self-starter with a flexible, can-do attitude and a passion for continuous learning.

• Familiarity with rigging or motion graphics in 2D software (e.g., After Effects, Toon Boom, Procreate Dreams).

• Interest in working on cause-driven or nonprofit storytelling projects.