Associate, Motion Graphic Designer

LA28
Full-time$69k-75k/year (USD)Los Angeles, United States

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Associate, Motion Graphic Designer

Company: LA28

Location: Los Angeles, California, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Sports & Recreation / Marketing

Date Posted: April 16, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

  • Responsible for shaping and maintaining LA28's visual identity through dynamic motion graphics across all platforms.

  • Contributes to key Games design initiatives, including the brand design system, pictograms, and torch, with a focus on motion aspects.

  • Develops and manages motion design language for both Olympic and Paralympic touchpoints, ensuring brand consistency and impact.

  • Creates a wide range of motion graphics for digital content, broadcast packages, social media, and live event environments, requiring versatility and a strong design eye.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within a critical period leading up to the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games, demanding a high level of creative output and adaptability. The emphasis on "Swiss Army knife" capabilities suggests a need for broad motion design skills applicable to diverse project needs, from brand animations to complex broadcast elements.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

  • Develop and animate 2D graphics, emblems, program marks, and brand elements (e.g., Pictograms) with a focus on storytelling and brand consistency.

  • Design and produce motion graphics for various digital formats, including social content, venue takeovers, and live event screens, adapting to different aspect ratios and technical requirements.

  • Create broadcast and digital content assets such as lower thirds, animated transitions, and video packaging for social and digital platforms.

  • Build and animate graphic packages for sport presentation, including opening sequences, in-game presentations, and branded content for live event environments.

  • Design seamless looping animations optimized for LED displays, ribbon boards, IPTVs, and large-format venue screens.

  • Manage the end-to-end motion production pipeline, from concept and ideation through animation, export, and final delivery, adhering to project specifications and naming conventions.

  • Conduct thorough Quality Assurance (QA) on all motion assets to ensure they meet both creative and technical standards before delivery.

  • Collaborate with the Manager of Motion Graphics and the broader Brand Design team on key Games deliverables and internal creative service requests.

  • Partner with cross-functional teams across Marketing and other departments to fulfill their respective motion design needs.

  • Present motion concepts and work-in-progress to internal teams and stakeholders clearly and effectively.

  • Implement creative feedback efficiently, iterating thoughtfully while maintaining the original creative intent.

  • Contribute to the creation of motion templates, MOGRTs, and rendered asset libraries to enable scaled, on-brand content production for the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for both creative execution and operational efficiency. The emphasis on managing the "full motion production pipeline" and creating "motion templates" suggests an expectation for candidates who can not only design but also streamline workflows and empower others within the organization to produce branded content.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: BFA or BA in Motion Graphics, Animation, Graphic Design, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.

Experience: Minimum of 3+ years of professional motion design experience in an integrated marketing, agency/studio, or broadcast environment.

Required Skills:

  • Strong design fundamentals including composition, typography, and visual storytelling, with a clear understanding of how these translate into motion.

  • Proficient in Adobe After Effects, Illustrator, Photoshop, and Adobe Media Encoder for motion design and asset delivery.

  • Understanding of character animation and the 12 principles of animation, with an emphasis on intentional and storytelling motion.

  • Keen attention to detail and a strong eye for design, with the ability to QA assets before final delivery.

  • Experience in managing projects through typical design phases: research, ideation, concept development, approval, and production.

  • Proficient in macOS and comfortable working within a Mac-based creative environment.

  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize competing tasks, and deliver quality work on time.

  • Comfortable working independently and taking initiative after receiving creative direction.

  • Effective communication skills for presenting ideas, articulating creative decisions, and implementing feedback.

Preferred Skills:

  • Working knowledge of Adobe Premiere Pro.

  • Bonus proficiency in 3D software such as Cinema 4D, Blender, Maya, or Unreal Engine.

  • Experience with sport presentation graphics, broadcast packaging, and live event production.

  • Demonstrated ability to work consistently within and apply an established brand design system.

  • Experience creating MOGRTs, motion templates, and asset libraries for cross-team use.

  • Passion for sport, the Olympic and Paralympic movement, and the power of design to bring major events to life.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a blend of technical proficiency in core motion design software and strong conceptual design thinking. The inclusion of "12 principles of animation" and "storytelling motion" indicates a need for designers who understand the craft beyond just technical execution. The "Swiss Army knife" descriptor implies a need for breadth of experience across various motion graphics applications.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • A comprehensive portfolio is required, showcasing a range of motion work that demonstrates a growing sense of composition, animation, and visual storytelling.

  • Include examples that highlight brand animation, kinetic typography, graphic package design, or narrative-driven motion projects.

  • Showcase versatility in creating assets for various formats including broadcast, digital, social media, and large-format LED displays.

  • Demonstrate an understanding of how to apply and maintain consistency within an established brand design system.

Process Documentation:

  • Examples of managing projects through typical design phases (research, ideation, concept, approval, production) should be evident in portfolio case studies.

  • Showcase ability to manage the full motion production pipeline, including concept development, animation, export, and final delivery, with clear organizational structure.

  • Illustrate experience in QA processes for motion assets to ensure creative and technical standards are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is critical for this role. Applicants should curate their submissions to clearly demonstrate their ability to execute a wide range of motion graphics tasks, adhere to brand guidelines, and manage projects from start to finish. Highlighting work on large-scale events or broadcast projects would be a significant advantage.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $69,000 - $75,000 annually.

Benefits:

  • While specific benefits are not detailed in the job description, organizations like LA28 typically offer comprehensive packages that may include:
    • Health, dental, and vision insurance.

    • Paid time off (vacation, sick leave, holidays).

    • Retirement savings plans (e.g., 401k).

    • Opportunities for professional development and training.

    • Potential for unique perks related to major event organization. Working Hours: 40 hours per week, with potential for varied hours including evenings, weekends, and holidays, especially during peak event periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is a base annual salary. It's important for candidates to understand this represents base compensation and that total compensation packages can vary. The mention of varied hours, including evenings and weekends, is standard for event-driven organizations and indicates the need for flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Sports & Entertainment / Olympic & Paralympic Games Organizing Committee. LA28 is organizing the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles, a unique and high-profile global event.

Company Size: While not explicitly stated, the nature of organizing an Olympic Games suggests a large, complex organization with numerous departments and a significant workforce, likely growing as the event approaches.

Founded: LA28 was established as the organizing committee for the 2028 Games. The organization's mission is to create an unparalleled Games experience.

Team Structure:

  • The Associate Motion Graphic Designer reports to the Manager of Illustration & Motion Graphics.

  • They will collaborate closely with the larger Brand Design team, which is responsible for shaping and maintaining LA28's visual identity.

Methodology:

  • The Brand Design team focuses on developing and managing a cohesive and impactful visual identity, including motion graphics.

  • Emphasis is placed on ensuring brand consistency and excellence across all platforms and touchpoints.

  • A "co-creation" value suggests a collaborative approach where diverse voices contribute to the shared mission.

  • The organization values "boldness," encouraging creativity, courage, and outside-the-box thinking.

Company Website: https://la28.org/

📝 Enhancement Note: LA28's culture appears to be driven by a mission-oriented, collaborative, and innovative spirit, aligned with the values of optimism, integrity, excellence, inclusion, co-creation, and boldness. The role of a Motion Graphic Designer is central to bringing the visual identity of the Games to life, requiring alignment with these core values.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an "Associate" level position, typically indicating an early to mid-career stage for a motion graphic designer. It requires 3+ years of experience and focuses on execution within established brand guidelines, while also contributing to design language expansion.

Reporting Structure: The role reports to the Manager of Illustration & Motion Graphics, who likely provides creative direction and oversees project assignments. Collaboration with the broader Brand Design team and other departments is a key aspect of the role's structure.

Operations Impact: The Motion Graphic Designer plays a crucial role in shaping the visual narrative and brand perception of the LA28 Games. Their work will be seen by a global audience across digital, broadcast, and live event platforms, directly impacting how the Games are experienced and remembered. The role contributes to the overall success of the marketing and branding efforts for the event.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Skill Advancement: Opportunity to deepen expertise in motion graphics, animation principles, and various design software, particularly in the context of large-scale international events.

  • Specialization: Potential to develop specialized skills in areas like broadcast package design, sport presentation graphics, or large-format display animation.

  • Career Progression: With demonstrated success and growth, potential to advance to Senior Motion Graphic Designer or specialize in illustration, brand design leadership, or creative services management within LA28 or the broader sports/event industry.

  • Networking: Exposure to a wide range of creative professionals and stakeholders involved in a major international event.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Associate" title suggests a strong focus on executing creative briefs and adhering to brand standards, but also opportunities to learn and contribute to the evolution of the brand's motion identity. The unique nature of organizing an Olympic Games provides a significant platform for professional growth and impact.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role requires the ability to work on-site in an open office environment in Los Angeles, CA. This suggests a collaborative workspace where team members interact regularly.

Office Location(s): Los Angeles, California.

Workspace Context:

  • The work environment is described as an office setting, requiring extended periods of computer and phone use.

  • Collaboration is a key aspect, with close interaction expected with the Brand Design team and cross-functional partners.

  • Access to necessary design software and hardware (Mac-based environment) is implied.

Work Schedule: While the standard is 40 hours per week, the role may require varied hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, particularly during peak event periods leading up to and during the Games. This indicates a dynamic and potentially demanding schedule inherent to major event organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement emphasizes the importance of in-person collaboration and team synergy. The flexible work schedule, especially during peak times, is a critical factor for candidates to consider.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Application: Submit resume and required portfolio.

  • Portfolio Review: The hiring team will assess the portfolio for design quality, animation skills, storytelling, and adherence to brand guidelines. Expect review of diverse motion graphics examples.

  • Screening Call: Potentially a brief call with HR or a recruiter to discuss experience, qualifications, and cultural fit.

  • Creative Assessment/Technical Interview: Likely involves a practical exercise or a deep dive into motion design concepts, software proficiency, and problem-solving abilities related to motion graphics. This may include presenting portfolio pieces and discussing creative process.

  • Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Meetings with the Manager of Motion Graphics, members of the Brand Design team, and potentially cross-functional partners to assess collaboration skills and alignment with team dynamics.

  • Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to discuss overall fit and strategic contribution.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Curate Strategically: Select your strongest, most relevant work that demonstrates the breadth of skills mentioned in the job description (brand animation, kinetic typography, broadcast, social, etc.).

  • Showcase Process: If possible, include brief explanations or case studies for key projects, highlighting your thought process, problem-solving, and how you applied brand guidelines.

  • Highlight Brand Application: Emphasize any work where you successfully applied or adapted an existing brand system.

  • Demonstrate Versatility: Include examples of projects with different aspect ratios and for various platforms (social, web, broadcast, large-format screens).

  • Storytelling Focus: Ensure your selected pieces showcase intentional motion and effective visual storytelling.

  • Technical Proficiency: Ensure your work clearly demonstrates mastery of Adobe After Effects and related design tools.

Challenge Preparation:

  • Motion Design Fundamentals: Be prepared to discuss animation principles, design theory, and your creative process.

  • Software Proficiency: Be ready to talk about your workflow in After Effects, Illustrator, Photoshop, and Media Encoder, and potentially your experience with 3D software.

  • Problem-Solving: Anticipate questions about how you would approach specific motion design challenges, such as animating a logo for different platforms or creating a graphic package for a specific event.

  • Brand Adherence: Practice articulating how you would ensure brand consistency across diverse motion graphics outputs.

  • Collaboration Scenarios: Prepare examples of how you've collaborated with teams and managed feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process will heavily rely on the portfolio. Candidates should meticulously craft their submissions to directly address the "Swiss Army knife" requirement and showcase their ability to work within a large-scale event context.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • Adobe After Effects: Core software for motion graphics and animation.

  • Adobe Illustrator: Essential for creating vector graphics and assets for animation.

  • Adobe Photoshop: Used for image editing, asset preparation, and graphic creation.

  • Adobe Media Encoder: For efficient rendering and export of motion graphics assets.

Analytics & Reporting: Not directly applicable to this creative role, but understanding how motion graphics contribute to engagement metrics might be beneficial.

CRM & Automation: Not directly applicable, but understanding how motion assets are stored and distributed within an asset management system would be relevant.

Other Potential Tools:

  • Adobe Premiere Pro: For basic video editing and integration of motion graphics.

  • 3D Software (Preferred): Cinema 4D, Blender, Maya, or Unreal Engine for advanced 3D motion graphics.

  • Motion Graphics Templates (MOGRTs): Experience creating these for templated use is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite, particularly After Effects, is non-negotiable. Experience with 3D software and MOGRT creation are significant advantages, indicating a candidate's ability to enhance efficiency and expand the creative possibilities for the team.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Optimism: Approach challenges with a positive, solution-oriented attitude.

  • Integrity: Communicate openly and honestly, respect diverse perspectives, and be accountable.

  • Excellence: Hold yourself to high standards, persevere through challenges, and be a continuous learner.

  • Inclusion: Seek to represent, include, and empower others; ensure work reflects diverse communities.

  • Co-Creation: Contribute your unique voice to the shared mission and take pride in collective accomplishments.

  • Boldness: Embrace creativity, courage, and unconventional solutions; be an innovator.

Collaboration Style:

  • Highly collaborative, working closely with the Brand Design team and cross-functional partners.

  • Emphasis on clear communication, presenting ideas effectively, and implementing feedback constructively.

  • A culture of "co-creation" suggests that input from all team members is valued.

  • The need for internal creative services implies a service-oriented approach to supporting other departments.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should demonstrate an understanding of and alignment with LA28's core values, particularly "Excellence," "Inclusion," and "Co-Creation," as these directly influence how work is produced and how team members interact. The "Boldness" value suggests an appreciation for creative risk-taking within brand boundaries.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Pace and Scale: Working on a project of the magnitude of the Olympic and Paralympic Games involves a high pace and demands significant output under tight deadlines.

  • Brand Consistency: Maintaining visual consistency across a vast array of deliverables and platforms, while also contributing to the evolution of the brand's motion language.

  • Diverse Project Needs: Adapting quickly to varied requests from different functional areas, ranging from complex broadcast packages to simple social media animations.

  • Technical Specifications: Ensuring all motion graphics meet the specific technical requirements of various output formats, especially for large-scale venue displays.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Event-Specific Design: Gain unparalleled experience in motion graphics for major international sporting events.

  • Broad Creative Exposure: Work on a wide spectrum of creative projects, expanding your portfolio and skillset.

  • Industry Best Practices: Learn from experienced designers and collaborate with professionals in marketing, broadcast, and event production.

  • Professional Growth: Opportunities to take on more responsibility and potentially advance within the organization as the Games approach and beyond.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are inherent to a role within a major event organizing committee. Candidates should view these challenges as opportunities for significant professional growth and learning.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • "Describe how you would approach animating the LA28 emblem for a social media campaign versus a large-format LED screen at a venue. What technical and creative considerations would be different?" (Assesses understanding of technical specs and creative adaptation).

  • "Walk us through a project in your portfolio where you had to apply a strict brand guideline. How did you ensure consistency while still bringing your creative vision to the piece?" (Evaluates brand adherence and creative execution).

Company & Culture Questions:

  • "What excites you most about the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and how do you see motion graphics contributing to that excitement?" (Assesses passion and alignment with the event's mission).

  • "How do you embody LA28's value of 'Co-Creation' in your collaborative work?" (Measures understanding and application of company values).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by showcasing your progression in skills. Start with your strongest pieces.

  • Narrative: For each selected project, prepare a brief narrative that outlines: the objective, your role, the creative process, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and the final outcome.

  • Key Metrics/Impact: If applicable, highlight any measurable impact of your work (e.g., engagement on social media, successful broadcast integration).

  • Technical Details: Be ready to discuss the software used, technical constraints, and your workflow for each project.

  • Brand Application: Clearly point out where your work demonstrates adherence to brand guidelines or how you developed motion for a specific brand system.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only technical skill but also a deep understanding of branding, storytelling, and collaborative problem-solving within the context of a high-profile global event.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this motion graphic design position:

  • Submit your resume and a link to your online portfolio through the LA28 careers portal.

  • Portfolio Curation: Carefully select 3-5 of your strongest motion graphics projects that best represent the skills and experience outlined in the job description. Prioritize work that showcases brand animation, dynamic storytelling, and adaptability across different platforms.

  • Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your 3+ years of professional experience, proficiency in Adobe After Effects, Illustrator, Photoshop, and Media Encoder, and any experience with broadcast, sport presentation, or large-format displays. Use keywords from the job description.

  • Portfolio Walkthrough Practice: Prepare a concise presentation or be ready to verbally walk through your portfolio, explaining your creative process, technical approach, and how your work aligns with the LA28 brand. Practice articulating your design decisions clearly and confidently.

  • Company Research: Familiarize yourself with LA28's mission, values, and the overall vision for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Understand how motion graphics contribute to the brand experience and the success of major events.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

Application Requirements

Candidates must have at least 3 years of professional motion design experience and a strong portfolio demonstrating animation and design skills. A BFA or BA in a relevant field is required, along with proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud tools.