The New School

Responsibilities:

About the Project

The Beauty Industrial Complex is a documentary film that interrogates how beauty, power, and desire intertwine across social, economic, and spiritual systems. The film uses animation to visualize abstract concepts—mirrors, fragmentation, identity, and self-surveillance—as a metaphorical language woven through live-action footage.

Role Overview

We are seeking a student or junior animator to develop short animated sequences and motion graphics that enrich the film’s narrative. The ideal candidate combines aesthetic sensitivity with conceptual rigor—able to translate psychological and philosophical ideas into visual form. THIS POSITION IS HYBRID.

Responsibilities

• Design and animate short sequences that visualize abstract ideas (e.g., beauty myths, social media dynamics, consumer cycles).
• Create motion graphics and text animations (for interviews, archival inserts, or data visualization).
• Collaborate with director and editor to ensure animations align with narrative pacing and tone.
• Incorporate feedback and adjust style/direction as needed.
• Maintain organized project files and deliver assets in professional formats.

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, creed, religion or belief, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, marital or domestic partnership status, sexual orientation, sex, gender identity or expression, age, disability, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. The New School recognizes and values the benefits of a diverse workforce.

This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement between SENS-UAW, Local 7902 and the University.

WORK MODE

Hybrid – Employees hired for this position primarily work remotely with the occasional on-campus presence required with advanced notice. Employees in this role will also be expected to use their best judgment to be on campus when necessary in order to best fulfill the responsibilities of their job descriptions.

Hourly Rate: $31.37/hour

Minimum Qualifications:

Qualifications

• Current student (undergraduate or graduate) in animation, motion design, visual communication, or a related program.
• Proficiency in After Effects, Illustrator, Photoshop (3D software experience a plus but not required).
• Strong design sensibility and ability to translate abstract concepts into compelling visual metaphors.
• Ability to work collaboratively and adapt creatively to feedback.
• Interest in documentary, social issues, and experimental forms of storytelling is strongly preferred.

Preferred Qualifications: Job Family: The New School