Story Artist

About the Studio

DreamWorks Animation is seeking imaginative, bold storytellers who are eager to create memorable animated worlds. The studio produces acclaimed feature films and series for audiences worldwide, with a strong emphasis on original ideas, strong characters, and emotionally engaging storytelling. It values diverse backgrounds, collaborative teamwork, open communication, and trust, and brings together artists, technologists, innovators, and creators who share a passion for animation.

Role Overview

This position is for a Story Artist who can translate scripts and story prompts into clear, engaging visual sequences. The role is based in Glendale, California and is designated as hybrid, with work from the office generally required at least four days each week.

Key Responsibilities

• Study scripts and develop storyboard panels from page interpretation or creative prompts.
• Partner with the Director(s), Producer, and Head of Story to shape boards that match the film’s intended tone.
• Build character performance and personality through storyboarding.
• Revise sequences using notes and feedback from the team.
• Present storyboard work to leadership and editorial when needed.
• Work efficiently to explore new ideas and refine existing boards.
• Create drawings that clearly communicate acting, staging, and action with strong visual timing.

Qualifications and Skills

• Working knowledge of acting, anatomy, perspective, staging, and composition.
• Ability to generate inventive ideas that elevate story material.
• Strong sense of entertainment value and humor.
• Understanding of editorial storytelling.
• Ability to present storyboard work clearly and effectively.
• Willingness to learn the software used for creation and asset management, or prior knowledge of those tools.
• Good time management and the ability to work quickly.
• Ability to provide a reel or portfolio of relevant work samples, with a web address included in the resume if available.
• Experience with Photoshop or similar software is preferred.
• A BA in Art, Animation, or equivalent professional experience is preferred.
• At least 3 years of professional experience is preferred.

Additional Information

External candidates may be asked to attend an in-person interview with an NBCUniversal employee at one of the company’s locations before a hiring decision is made.

The employer follows equal employment opportunity practices and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, gender, gender identity or expression, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, membership in the uniformed services, genetic information, or any other protected status under applicable law.

Qualified applicants with criminal histories, including arrest or conviction records, will be reviewed in line with applicable legal requirements, including the City of Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, and the California Fair Chance Act where relevant.

Applicants who are qualified individuals with disabilities or disabled veterans may request a reasonable accommodation during the application or recruitment process by contacting [email protected].