Motion Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Motion Graphic Designer

Company: AKA NYC Limited

Location: New York, NY

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Marketing

Date Posted: May 22, 2026

Experience Level: 3-5 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid (Minimum 3 days in office)

🚀 Role Summary

• Design and produce visually compelling 2D and 3D motion graphics and animations for diverse campaigns across digital, social, and experiential platforms.

• Collaborate closely with Creative Directors and content producers to translate concepts into engaging visual narratives through storyboarding and asset creation.

• Maintain brand consistency and visual style across all motion content, ensuring alignment with campaign objectives and client guidelines.

• Leverage emerging technologies, including AI tools, to innovate and enhance motion design workflows and output.

• Manage the end-to-end project lifecycle for motion graphics, from initial concept development to final delivery, ensuring adherence to deadlines and quality standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within a dynamic advertising agency specializing in entertainment and culture, indicating a need for creative storytelling and a fast-paced, client-driven approach. The emphasis on AI tools suggests a forward-thinking team embracing new technologies in motion design.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and execute motion graphics and animation sequences for a variety of client projects, including theatrical productions, cultural institutions, and sports organizations.

• Conceptualize and design visual elements, storyboards, and animatics to effectively communicate campaign ideas and narratives.

• Create high-quality 2D and 3D motion assets suitable for deployment across digital advertising, social media channels, live events, and branded content initiatives.

• Ensure all motion graphics adhere strictly to established brand guidelines, visual styles, and campaign messaging, maintaining a cohesive brand identity.

• Proactively research and integrate current motion design trends, animation techniques, and AI-powered tools to elevate creative output and efficiency.

• Take full ownership of assigned motion graphics projects, meticulously managing timelines, resources, and deliverables to ensure successful and timely completion.

• Respond effectively to client feedback and internal stakeholder revisions, demonstrating adaptability and maintaining high standards under pressure within a demanding agency environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative execution and project management, requiring the designer to be both an artist and a self-sufficient project lead. The specific mention of entertainment and culture clients suggests a need for understanding industry-specific aesthetics and messaging.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Animation, Film Production, or a related field is typically expected for this level of experience. Equivalent professional experience and a strong portfolio can often substitute for formal education.

Experience: 3-5 years of professional experience in motion graphics design, animation, or a closely related creative field. Experience within the entertainment, arts, culture, or sports marketing sectors is highly desirable.

Required Skills:

• Proven expertise in creating visually compelling motion graphics and animations.

• Strong demo reel or portfolio demonstrating creative motion design skills, visual storytelling abilities, and technical proficiency.

• Advanced proficiency in Adobe After Effects for animation and motion graphics.

• Expertise in Adobe Premiere Pro for video editing and integration of motion graphics.

• Skilled in Adobe Illustrator for vector asset creation and manipulation.

• Proficient in Adobe Photoshop for image editing and asset preparation.

• Experience designing and producing both 2D and 3D motion graphics across various platforms and formats.

• Solid understanding of fundamental design principles: typography, composition, color theory, and visual storytelling.

• Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills, with meticulous attention to detail.

• Demonstrated ability to manage projects independently from concept to completion in a fast-paced creative environment. Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with 3D animation software beyond basic After Effects capabilities (e.g., Cinema 4D, Blender).

• Experience with AI tools relevant to motion graphics generation, asset creation, or workflow enhancement.

• Knowledge of video production workflows and best practices for various media platforms.

• Experience working within an advertising agency setting, particularly with live entertainment or cultural clients.

• Understanding of current digital marketing and social media trends as they relate to motion content.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Adobe Creative Suite is standard, but the inclusion of "AI tools" and "3D motion graphics" suggests a desire for candidates who are adaptable and expanding their skill sets beyond traditional 2D animation. The "entertainment experience" preference indicates a need for candidates who can grasp and execute the unique visual language of this sector.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a diverse range of motion graphics projects, highlighting versatility in style and application (e.g., explainer videos, social media ads, title sequences, character animation).

• Include case studies or detailed descriptions for key projects, explaining the creative brief, your role, the challenges faced, and the solutions implemented.

• Demonstrate proficiency in visual storytelling, clearly articulating how motion and animation were used to convey a message or evoke emotion.

• Present examples of 2D and 3D motion graphics, illustrating your capabilities in both areas.

• For each project, clearly list the software used and your specific contributions. Process Documentation:

• Be prepared to discuss your typical workflow for motion graphics projects, from initial brief interpretation and concept development to storyboarding, asset creation, animation, rendering, and final delivery.

• Explain how you manage client feedback and revisions throughout the production process, maintaining project integrity and client satisfaction.

• Articulate your approach to ensuring brand consistency and adherence to design guidelines across multiple deliverables.

• Describe your process for staying updated on new motion design techniques, software, and emerging technologies like AI and how you integrate them into your work.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a motion graphics role, the portfolio is paramount. The enhancement emphasizes not just showing finished work but also demonstrating the thought process, problem-solving skills, and understanding of client objectives that underpin effective motion design. The inclusion of process documentation shows the need for candidates who can articulate their methodology and work ethic.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $80,000 - $105,000 USD per year.

This range is competitive for a Motion Graphic Designer with 3-5 years of experience in the New York City metropolitan area, reflecting the city's cost of living and the specialized skills required for this role in a top-tier advertising agency. The final salary will be determined based on factors such as candidate experience, specific skills, and internal equity. A discretionary bonus may also be part of the total compensation package.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Healthcare & Dental: 100% employer-paid premiums for employees, ensuring robust medical and dental coverage.

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) Policy: Ample time off for rest and personal pursuits.

• Summer Fridays: Enjoy half-day Fridays during the summer to maximize leisure time.

• Hybrid Work Model: A balanced approach combining in-office collaboration (minimum three days per week) with remote flexibility.

• Continuous Growth & Learning: An annual Training & Development fund is provided to support skill enhancement and professional development.

• Financial Wellness Perks: Options for student loan repayment or tuition assistance, based on employee tenure.

• Paid Parental Leave: Up to 12 weeks of paid leave to support new parents.

• Sabbatical Opportunities: Paid time off for long-term employees to recharge and gain new perspectives.

• Pet-Friendly Office: A welcoming environment that allows employees to bring their pets to work.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours are expected, likely around 40 hours per week, with the flexibility afforded by the hybrid work model. However, as is common in agency environments, occasional overtime may be required to meet project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is explicitly provided and falls within industry benchmarks for mid-level motion designers in a high-cost-of-living city like New York. The benefits package is exceptionally strong, with a particular emphasis on employee well-being, professional development, and work-life balance, which are significant draws for creative professionals. The 100% employer-paid healthcare is a notable benefit.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Advertising & Marketing, specifically focused on Theater & Live Entertainment, Arts & Culture, Attractions & Destinations, and Sports & Leisure. AKA NYC positions itself as a "content-forward and data-fueled" agency renowned for delivering impactful cross-platform campaigns.

Company Size: While not explicitly stated, the company's extensive client roster (Broadway shows, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Harlem Globetrotters) and global reach suggest a medium to large-sized agency with multiple departments and a significant workforce.

Founded: The founding date is not provided, but the company's established partnerships and award-winning status imply a history of successful operations and growth within the advertising industry.

Team Structure:

• The Motion Graphic Designer will join the "content and creative team." This team likely includes Creative Directors, content producers, copywriters, art directors, and other designers.

• The role reports to a Creative Director or a senior content producer, with close collaboration expected across creative disciplines.

• Cross-functional collaboration is key, working with account management, strategy, and media teams to ensure motion content aligns with broader campaign goals and client objectives. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Creativity: The agency emphasizes using data to fuel creative strategies and campaign development, suggesting that insights into audience behavior and campaign performance inform creative decisions.

• Content-Forward Approach: A focus on creating engaging, narrative-driven content that resonates with target audiences, rather than purely aesthetic output.

• Integrated Campaigns: Experience in developing and executing campaigns across multiple platforms, requiring a holistic understanding of how different media channels work together.

Company Website: https://aka.nyc/

📝 Enhancement Note: AKA NYC operates in a unique niche, blending creative advertising with the experiential world of entertainment and culture. This implies a work environment that values passion for these industries, a high level of creative output, and a collaborative, deadline-driven agency culture. The "content-forward and data-fueled" mantra suggests a balanced approach between artistic vision and measurable results.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a mid-level individual contributor role, designated as a Motion Graphic Designer. It requires a solid foundation of skills and experience (3-5 years) and the ability to work independently on projects, while also being a collaborative team member.

Reporting Structure: The Motion Graphic Designer will report to a Creative Director or a senior member of the content/creative team. They will also work closely with content producers and potentially other art directors or designers.

Operations Impact: While primarily a creative role, the motion graphics produced directly impact the effectiveness of marketing campaigns for high-profile clients in entertainment and culture. Strong motion design can significantly influence audience engagement, brand perception, ticket sales, and overall campaign success. The role contributes to the agency's ability to deliver compelling visual narratives that drive client results.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific animation techniques (e.g., 3D modeling, character animation, advanced compositing) or specialize in particular client verticals (e.g., Broadway, museums).

• Creative Leadership: Potential to grow into a Senior Motion Graphic Designer role, leading smaller projects, mentoring junior designers, and contributing more significantly to creative concept development.

• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Exposure to various aspects of advertising and marketing, offering pathways into Art Direction or Content Production roles for those who develop broader strategic and production management skills.

• AI Tool Mastery: Developing expertise in cutting-edge AI tools for motion design can position the designer as an innovator and leader in adopting new technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for a Motion Graphic Designer in an agency setting typically involves increasing creative responsibility, project ownership, and potentially leadership. The emphasis on AI tools and specific client industries offers unique avenues for specialized growth.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The company offers a hybrid work model, requiring a minimum of three days per week in the office. This suggests a collaborative office environment designed to foster teamwork, brainstorming, and in-person client interactions.

Office Location(s): The office is located in New York, NY, specifically in the 10036 zip code, which is in the heart of Manhattan, offering accessibility and proximity to industry hubs.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The office likely features open workspaces, meeting rooms, and potentially dedicated creative studios to facilitate team collaboration and brainstorming sessions.

• Technology & Tools: Access to high-performance workstations, industry-standard software, and potentially specialized hardware necessary for motion graphics and animation production.

• Team Interaction: The hybrid model encourages regular interaction with colleagues, Creative Directors, and producers, fostering a dynamic and communicative work atmosphere. The pet-friendly policy adds a unique element to the office culture.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, with a standard 40-hour work week. The hybrid model offers some flexibility regarding work location, but the in-office requirement ensures structured collaboration. Given the agency nature, flexibility and willingness to adapt to project timelines are expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model is a key feature, balancing the need for in-person collaboration essential in creative agencies with the flexibility sought by modern professionals. The pet-friendly office is a cultural differentiator.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a review of resume and portfolio by HR or a creative lead to assess basic qualifications and creative fit.

• Portfolio Review & Technical Interview: A detailed review of the candidate's demo reel/portfolio, focusing on creative approach, technical execution, and problem-solving. This may involve a discussion with a Creative Director or Senior Designer.

• Creative Challenge/Test: Candidates may be given a short motion graphics project or asked to refine an existing piece to assess their skills, creativity, and ability to work within brand guidelines and deadlines.

• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Meeting with potential team members and managers to assess collaboration style, communication skills, and alignment with AKA NYC's culture and values.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a higher-level executive or department head for final approval.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Wisely: Select your strongest, most relevant work. Prioritize quality over quantity.

• Showcase Versatility: Include examples demonstrating a range of styles, techniques (2D/3D), and applications (social, digital, experiential).

• Tell a Story: For each project, provide context: the brief, your role, challenges, and how you solved them.

• Highlight Impact: If possible, include metrics or client testimonials that demonstrate the effectiveness of your work.

• Technical Proficiency: Ensure your reel is well-edited, technically sound, and showcases your command of software like After Effects.

• Tailor to AKA: If possible, include work that shows an understanding of entertainment, arts, or culture branding.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brief: Carefully read and deconstruct any creative challenge. Ask clarifying questions if needed.

• Focus on Strategy: Think about the client's objectives, target audience, and brand.

• Demonstrate Process: Be ready to explain your thought process, from concept to execution.

• Time Management: Practice working efficiently to meet deadlines, even for short tests.

• Presentation Skills: Be prepared to present your work and rationale clearly and concisely.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a creative role heavily relies on the portfolio. The advice emphasizes not just showcasing technical skill but also strategic thinking, problem-solving, and an understanding of client needs, which are critical in an agency environment.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe After Effects: Core software for motion graphics creation, animation, compositing, and visual effects. Proficiency is essential.

• Adobe Premiere Pro: For video editing, sequencing motion graphics, and final output.

• Adobe Illustrator: For creating vector graphics, logos, and design elements to be animated.

• Adobe Photoshop: For image manipulation, texture creation, and preparing assets for animation.

Analytics & Reporting: While not directly responsible for analytics, understanding how motion graphics perform on different platforms (e.g., engagement rates on social media) can inform design decisions. Familiarity with platform analytics is a plus.

CRM & Automation: Less relevant for this specific role, but understanding how creative assets are managed and deployed within broader marketing automation or project management systems might be beneficial.

Emerging Technologies:

• AI Tools: Explicitly mentioned as a skill to stay current with. This could include AI-powered plugins for After Effects, generative AI platforms for asset creation, or AI tools for workflow automation.

• 3D Software: While not strictly required, experience with software like Cinema 4D or Blender would be a significant advantage for creating 3D motion graphics.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core requirement is mastery of the Adobe Creative Suite. The explicit mention of "AI tools" signifies a forward-looking agency that values innovation and efficiency through technology. Experience with 3D software is a strong differentiator.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: A strong emphasis on generating original ideas and pushing creative boundaries.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with diverse teams to achieve shared goals.

• Client-Centricity: A commitment to understanding and exceeding client expectations.

• Passion for Entertainment & Culture: A genuine interest in the industries AKA NYC serves, bringing authentic enthusiasm to projects.

• Excellence & Quality: A dedication to producing high-caliber work that upholds the agency's reputation.

• Adaptability: The ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic agency environment and respond to evolving client needs.

Collaboration Style:

• Team-Oriented: The hybrid model promotes in-office collaboration, suggesting a culture that values teamwork, brainstorming, and shared creative problem-solving.

• Feedback-Driven: Openness to constructive criticism and revisions from Creative Directors, producers, and clients is essential for growth and project success.

• Cross-Functional Integration: Working seamlessly with account managers, strategists, and other creative disciplines to ensure motion graphics align with overarching campaign objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The agency culture likely values passion for the arts and entertainment, combined with a professional, results-oriented approach. The emphasis on collaboration and client satisfaction is standard for a successful agency.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Fast-Paced Agency Environment: Meeting tight deadlines and managing multiple projects simultaneously for demanding clients.

• Balancing Creative Vision with Client Needs: Translating client objectives and feedback into compelling, effective motion graphics that may sometimes require creative compromise.

• Staying Ahead of Technological Advancements: Continuously learning and adapting to new software, tools (especially AI), and design trends in a rapidly evolving field.

• Maintaining Brand Consistency: Ensuring a high level of visual consistency across diverse projects for various clients, each with unique brand identities.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Skill Enhancement: Access to an annual Training & Development fund allows for specialized courses, workshops, or software training to deepen expertise in motion graphics, 3D, or AI tools.

• Industry Exposure: Working with high-profile clients in entertainment and culture provides invaluable experience and portfolio-building opportunities.

• Mentorship: Potential for guidance from experienced Creative Directors and senior designers within the agency.

• Career Progression: Opportunities to advance to Senior Motion Graphic Designer, Art Director, or Content Producer roles based on performance and demonstrated capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for agency creatives but are amplified by the high-profile nature of the clients. The growth opportunities are substantial, particularly with the dedicated development fund and the potential for advancement within a specialized agency.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for developing a motion graphic concept from client brief to final delivery." (Focus on your workflow, storyboarding, and creative decision-making.)

• "How do you ensure brand consistency and visual style across multiple motion graphics projects for different clients?" (Highlight your understanding of brand guidelines and attention to detail.)

• "Tell us about a time you had to adapt your creative vision based on client feedback. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Showcase your flexibility, problem-solving skills, and client management approach.)

• "How do you stay current with motion design trends, new software, and emerging technologies like AI?" (Demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning and innovation.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What appeals to you about AKA NYC's work in the entertainment and culture space?" (Show your passion for their client verticals.)

• "How do you approach collaboration within a creative team, especially in a hybrid work environment?" (Highlight your teamwork and communication skills.)

• "Describe your experience working with Creative Directors or producers. What makes a successful working relationship?" (Show your understanding of agency dynamics.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise and Impactful Reel: Start with your strongest work.

Keep it under 2-3 minutes if possible.

• Project Breakdown: For key pieces, be ready to discuss:

  • The client/project objective.
  • Your specific role and contributions.
  • The creative challenges and how you overcame them.
  • The tools and techniques used.
  • The final outcome and any measurable impact.

• Highlight Process: Be prepared to walk through storyboards, style frames, or early concepts to show your thought process.

• Enthusiasm and Personality: Let your passion for motion design and the entertainment industry shine through.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for this role centers on demonstrating both creative talent and professional maturity. Be ready to articulate your process, showcase your problem-solving skills, and express genuine interest in the agency's niche.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Motion Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application, including your resume and a link to your demo reel/portfolio, through the provided application link on the AKA NYC website.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your demo reel and portfolio are up-to-date and effectively showcase your best work relevant to advertising, entertainment, and cultural clients. Tailor your presentation to highlight your 2D/3D capabilities and storytelling skills.

• Resume Optimization: Craft your resume to clearly highlight your 3-5 years of experience, proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, and any relevant experience in entertainment or agency settings. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your creative process, project management approach, and how you handle feedback. Prepare to discuss your portfolio projects in detail.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research AKA NYC's client roster, recent campaigns, and company values. Understand their content-forward approach and passion for live entertainment and culture.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description provides insights into the role, company, and application process based on industry standards and available information. Candidates should verify all details and expectations directly with AKA NYC Limited during the application and interview stages.