Concept Artist (2D Environment/Background Designer)

Childhood Cancer Society; Austin (TX); Remote; USD 40,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative organization is seeking a talented Concept Artist to create captivating 2D background designs that resonate with children and families facing pediatric cancer. In this role, you will collaborate with a dynamic team to develop imaginative environments that enhance storytelling through art. Your designs will play a crucial role in conveying hope and courage, making a meaningful impact in the lives of those affected by cancer. If you are passionate about art and storytelling, and eager to contribute to cause-driven projects, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in background or environment concept art.
• Strong portfolio demonstrating background design skills.
• Ability to visualize spatial depth and mood through art.

Responsibilities

• Design 2D environments and background illustrations for projects.
• Collaborate with animators and writers to enhance storytelling.
• Manage multiple design tasks while meeting deadlines.

Skills

2D Background Design

Digital Illustration

Attention to Detail

Collaboration Skills

Animation Pipeline Understanding

Organizational Skills

Creative Direction Adherence

Education

Portfolio in Background Design

Experience in 2D Animation

Tools

Photoshop

Procreate

Clip Studio Paint

After Effects

Toon Boom

Job description

As a Concept Artist (2D Background Designer) at Childhood Cancer Society, you’ll play a key role in shaping the imaginative and emotionally resonant worlds where our stories and characters come to life. From whimsical forests to cosmic adventures, your background designs will transport audiences into the heart of our mission—spreading hope, courage, and wonder to children and families facing pediatric cancer.

You’ll collaborate closely with the Project Manager and Art Department to create stylized, narrative-driven environments that enhance our animations, illustrations, and branded content.

Key Responsibilities

• Design 2D environments and background illustrations that reflect the mood, tone, and narrative needs of each project.

• Create concept art from rough thumbnails to fully rendered backgrounds.

• Build mood boards, environment references, and design briefs to explore unique visual themes and storytelling possibilities.

• Collaborate with animators, character designers, and writers to ensure the environment enhances the story and character interaction.

• Apply principles of perspective, lighting, color, and composition to support storytelling and atmosphere.

• Handle feedback professionally and revise designs as needed.

• Manage multiple design tasks while meeting deadlines in a fast-paced, creative environment.

• Available to meet twice weekly via webcam with an engaged presence.
  
  

Qualifications:

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

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

• Ability to visualize spatial depth, mood, and worldbuilding through background art.

• Excellent attention to detail and design placement within a frame.

• Strong collaboration and communication skills.

• A portfolio that demonstrates strong background or environment design.
  
  

Remote: Yes

Skills required:

• 2+ years of experience in background or environment concept art (student work welcomed).

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

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

• Understanding of how backgrounds work in animation pipelines (e.g., layering for parallax, animated scenes).

• Experience designing for 2D animation or visual development projects.

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

• Interest in nonprofit storytelling or cause-driven creative projects.