Motion Graphic Designer — Detroit, MI

Motion Graphics Designer

The Motion Graphics Designer partners closely with Creative, Editorial, Design, Production and Post-Production teams to develop and execute motion graphics across a diverse range of projects.

This role is responsible for translating creative direction into engaging visual content, from initial concepts and style frames through animation, refinement and final delivery. Projects may include branded entertainment, commercial campaigns, digital and social content, title sequences, graphic packages and other motion-driven creative assets.

The ideal candidate combines strong visual instincts with technical proficiency and a collaborative mindset. They are comfortable working independently, responding to creative feedback and adapting their approach to meet the unique requirements of each project.

Success requires a commitment to high creative standards, accountability for deliverables and a genuine curiosity about emerging tools, techniques and technologies that continue to shape the future of motion design.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Motion Design & Animation

• Design and animate high-quality motion graphics across entertainment, advertising, branded content, social and integrated productions.

• Translate creative briefs, concepts and visual references into compelling motion design solutions.

• Develop style frames, storyboards, animatics and motion concepts that communicate creative direction.

• Create animated typography, graphic treatments, transitions, title sequences and other motion-driven visual elements.

• Apply strong design principles, including composition, typography, color, timing and movement, to create polished and engaging work.

• Adapt motion graphics for multiple platforms, formats, aspect ratios and delivery specifications.

2. Creative Development & Visual Storytelling

• Collaborate with Creative Directors, Art Directors, Designers, Editors and Producers to develop visual approaches that support project objectives.

• Contribute creative ideas and motion design solutions during concept development and production planning.

• Explore visual references, emerging design styles and animation techniques to inform creative execution.

• Develop and refine motion graphics based on creative feedback while maintaining consistency with the overall vision.

• Ensure motion design enhances storytelling, strengthens brand identity and creates meaningful audience engagement.

3. Production & Post-Production

• Partner with Editorial and Post-Production teams to integrate motion graphics seamlessly into finished content.

• Manage motion design assignments from initial development through final delivery, ensuring quality, accuracy and adherence to production timelines.

• Prepare, organize and maintain project files.

4. Creative Technology & Innovation

• Stay informed on emerging motion design techniques, creative technologies and evolving production workflows.

• Explore AI-assisted design, animation and post-production tools that enhance creative capabilities and production efficiency.

• Identify opportunities to streamline repetitive processes, improve workflows and increase creative flexibility.

• Experiment with new visual styles, formats and techniques that expand our motion design capabilities.

• Collaborate with creative and technical teams to integrate new tools and approaches into production when appropriate.

5. Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Creative, Editorial, Production, Design and Project Management teams throughout the creative process.

• Communicate project progress, technical considerations and potential challenges proactively.

• Participate in creative reviews, brainstorming sessions and collaborative problem-solving.

• Incorporate feedback thoughtfully and efficiently while maintaining high creative standards.

• Contribute to a collaborative, solutions-oriented environment that supports creative excellence and continuous improvement.

EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS

• 3–5 years of experience in motion graphics, motion design, animation or a related creative discipline within a production company, creative studio, agency, media or entertainment environment.

• Strong proficiency in Adobe After Effects, Photoshop, Illustrator and related Adobe Creative Cloud applications.

• Demonstrated expertise in 2D animation, typography, compositing, visual effects and motion design principles.

• Experience developing motion graphics for commercial, entertainment, branded content and digital or social platforms.

• Strong understanding of editorial and post-production workflows, including familiarity with Adobe Premiere Pro.

• Experience with Cinema 4D, Blender or other 3D design and animation tools is a plus.

• Familiarity with AI-assisted creative tools and emerging production technologies.

• Strong visual storytelling abilities with excellent design instincts and attention to detail.

• Ability to interpret creative direction, develop visual solutions and execute work independently.

• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to balance multiple projects and deadlines.

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

• A portfolio or reel demonstrating strong motion design, animation and visual storytelling capabilities.