Job Posting Title:
Character Design Lead - Disney Television AnimationReq ID:
10159762Job Description:
About this Role and our Studio
Disney Television Animation (DTVA) has over 40 years of legacy as a top producer of kids & family entertainment. Our work is integral to The Walt Disney Company, bringing Disney-branded characters and stories to families’ homes across the globe.
DTVA creates both long-form and short-form content spanning traditional 2D, rig-based 2D, CG (preschool), CG (premium), and stop-motion. We create shows in a broad range of unique and innovative styles, and we aim to match the right talent with the right production in terms of skill and artistic style.
By submitting an application for this Character Design Lead role, you may be considered for any Character Design Lead positions that arise until the expiration date provided.
Applications submitted to this job posting will remain valid until December 31, 2026.
What you will do
This is a key leadership role that partners with the Executive Producer, Art Director Line Producer, Production and Creative Executives to execute the creative vision of the series. The Character Design Lead will work directly with the team to ensure a quality and consistency of style throughout the series.
Responsibilities
Work closely with the Art Director to review scripts and storyboards and for characters that need to be designed for each episode. Flag complexity issues as they arise.
In collaboration with the Executive Producer and Art Director, set the visual style of the series, creating conceptual and production artwork.
Ensure that the high quality and style of show established by the Executive Producer and Art Director is achieved and maintained.
Further the storytelling process by developing the look, personality and feel of characters.
Capture the personality and life of a character with their design and attire.
Create turnarounds, special poses, mouth charts and expression sheets and provide a clean pass of the final approved design.
May oversee the Character Design team, delegating work and monitoring their schedules to create and maintain consistency with the design of the project
Communicate and problem-solve with vendor animation studio.
Required Qualifications and Skills
5-7 years of experience in artistic animation production.
Experience leading a team preferred.
Ability to design and create a variety of characters, turnarounds, mouth charts, expression sheets and special poses.
Experience working with oversees vendor studios.
A broad knowledge of artistic styles, latest technology and film is essential.
Knowledge of drawing software that includes Photoshop, Illustrator, Harmony and 3D technology, where applicable.
Ability to align with style and sensibility of show.
Strong leadership qualities with the ability to partner with Creatives and Executives, collaborate with peers, and manage and mentor artists.
Positive attitude with the ability to be flexible.
Excellent organizational, verbal, written, e-social skills and acumen.
Education
Bachelor degree or equivalent work experience
Job Location
This is a fully on-site role based in Glendale, CA.
Job Posting Segment:
Disney Branded TelevisionJob Posting Primary Business:
TVA Production ManagementPrimary Job Posting Category:
ModelingEmployment Type:
Full timePrimary City, State, Region, Postal Code:
Glendale, CA, USAAlternate City, State, Region, Postal Code:
Date Posted:
2026-08-31Skills Required
- 5-7 years of experience in artistic animation production
- Ability to design a variety of characters, turnarounds, mouth charts, expression sheets, and special poses
- Experience working with overseas vendor studios
- Broad knowledge of artistic styles, latest technology, and film
- Knowledge of Photoshop, Illustrator, Harmony, and applicable 3D technology
- Ability to align with the style and sensibility of a show
- Strong leadership, collaboration, artist management, and mentoring abilities
- Positive attitude and flexibility
- Excellent organizational, verbal, written, and social communication skills
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience
- Experience leading a team
The Walt Disney Company Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about The Walt Disney Company and has not been reviewed or approved by The Walt Disney Company.
-
Pay Growth & Progression — Recent union agreements raised wage floors for large groups of park cast members—e.g., Disneyland’s $24/hour minimum rising to $26 over the contract and Walt Disney World’s path from $18 toward about $20–$20.50 by 2026—signaling upward movement in hourly pay. These steps are described as meaningful improvements for many frontline roles.
-
Healthcare Strength — Company materials outline medical, dental, and vision coverage for many full‑time roles, wellness resources, and (in Central Florida) access to Centers for Living Well clinics and pharmacy. References to mental‑health support and paid time off reinforce a strong core health offering.
-
Wellbeing & Lifestyle Benefits — Complimentary theme‑park admission and discounts on hotels, dining, merchandise, and recreation are positioned as signature perks. Education support through Disney Aspire adds notable lifestyle value for eligible hourly employees.
The Walt Disney Company Insights
What We Do
The Walt Disney Company is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise that operates through segments including entertainment, sports, and experiences.
