How AI and Automation Are Changing Job Roles in Animation Studios

As we move into 2025, animation studios are undergoing significant transformations in their workflow, and this shift is reshaping the jobs in animation. From improving efficiency to creating new opportunities for animators, the impact of AI is undeniable. But what does this mean for those working in animation studios, and how can professionals prepare for the changes ahead?

The Growing Influence of AI in Animation

Let’s face it: animation isn’t what it used to be. While traditional hand-drawn techniques still hold a place of reverence, the role of AI in animation is transforming how projects are conceptualized and produced. A few years ago, animators might have been skeptical about how AI could contribute to the artistic process. But today, AI is no longer just a tool for streamlining repetitive tasks—it's helping animators innovate and push creative boundaries.

For instance, AI-driven animation tools like Adobe Sensei or Autodesk’s AI tools can speed up time-consuming processes, such as in-betweening (the process of creating frames between keyframes), or automating lip syncs based on voice recordings. This not only allows studios to produce higher-quality animations in a shorter period, but it also reduces the manual labor involved in some of the more tedious aspects of animation production.

According to a 2023 report by Statista, the global animation industry was valued at approximately $270 billion and is expected to grow at a rate of 4.5% annually until 2028, in part due to AI advancements. This growth is also a direct result of AI’s impact on production speeds and cost efficiency.

But there’s more to it than just efficiency—AI can assist in scriptwriting, character design, and even mood analysis, allowing animators to focus on the more creative elements of their work. 

How Automation is Shaping the Jobs in Animation Studios

With automation streamlining repetitive tasks, animators are now able to dedicate more time to ideation, visual storytelling, and character development. But while this is a great thing for those with creative minds, it's also creating a shift in job roles within animation studios. Let's break this down.

1. Animators: More Creative Freedom, Fewer Repetitive Tasks

In the past, animators spent countless hours creating in-between frames, tweaking details, or manually adjusting facial expressions. With automation tools powered by AI, much of this grunt work can now be handled automatically. For example, if you’ve ever seen a character’s lips sync perfectly to dialogue in an animation, there’s a good chance AI technology played a role in that process.

As these tasks become automated, animators can focus more on fine-tuning their creative ideas. This means animators are spending less time on busywork and more time making decisions that affect the look and feel of the animation. For animators who have always dreamed of focusing solely on the art of animation, AI tools are finally making that a reality.

2. AI as a Collaborative Partner, Not a Replacement

Many professionals in the animation industry worry that AI and automation might replace their jobs altogether. However, the reality is much more nuanced. AI is not here to replace animators—it's here to enhance their work. AI can act as a creative partner, offering suggestions, automating processes, and providing feedback, but the human touch remains indispensable in the animation process.

Take, for example, the role of a character designer. AI tools can analyze thousands of design references in a split second and suggest character traits, outfits, or even body language that match the script’s requirements. But the final decisions on these elements are still up to the human designer, whose creativity brings the character to life. So while AI can help streamline certain processes, it doesn’t have the imagination or intuition that a skilled animator brings to the table.

3. New Job Roles Emerging in the Animation Industry

As AI continues to evolve, new jobs are emerging within animation studios. These roles blend traditional animation skills with technical expertise, offering animators the opportunity to diversify their careers and stay ahead of the curve. One example of a new role is that of the “AI Integration Specialist,” who helps animation studios integrate AI tools into their existing workflows.

Another example is the “AI Animation Supervisor.” This role focuses on managing AI-driven animation tools and ensuring that they’re used effectively throughout the production process. AI supervisors will be responsible for setting guidelines on how AI should be used creatively and ensuring that it enhances the animation’s quality and integrity rather than detracting from it.

These emerging roles offer exciting opportunities for animators to transition into more technical or managerial positions, especially if they are interested in working at the intersection of creativity and technology.

Also Read: AI and the Evolution of 3D Animation: What the Future Holds

Real-World Examples of AI and Automation in Animation Studios

Let's take a closer look at how AI is already reshaping the animation world through real-world examples. One notable case is the production of the animated feature film The Lion King (2019). While it’s not a completely AI-driven project, much of the film's visual effects were assisted by AI. 

For example, AI was used in creating highly realistic animal movements and facial expressions that would have been impossible to achieve manually in such a short amount of time.

Another example is the role of AI in stop-motion animation. Studios like Laika (known for Coraline and Kubo and the Two Strings) have embraced AI to streamline their stop-motion processes, which typically require painstaking, frame-by-frame manipulation of characters. AI technology helps these studios by predicting how models should move and automating some aspects of the setup and filming, reducing the time and labor involved in producing high-quality stop-motion animation.

Even smaller studios are jumping on the AI bandwagon. Independent animation artists are using AI tools for tasks like automatic in-betweening, color correction, and 3D modeling. These tools empower smaller studios to compete with the big names by enabling them to work faster and more efficiently.

The Future of Jobs in Animation: Adapting to Change

As we move towards 2025 and beyond, the animation industry will continue to evolve. Automation and AI are set to become even more integral to the animation process, driving a shift towards higher efficiency and lower production costs. But this doesn’t necessarily mean fewer jobs—quite the opposite. As the demand for more animation content rises (think of all the streaming platforms and game studios!), new opportunities will emerge for skilled professionals who can adapt to new technology.

The key to staying relevant in this changing landscape is embracing AI as a tool for creativity rather than fearing it as a threat. Whether you’re an animator, a storyboard artist, or an animation director, understanding how to leverage AI tools can help you stay ahead of the curve.

For example, animators who embrace AI-driven tools for concept art, motion capture, or even scriptwriting can become indispensable members of their teams. And those who expand their skill sets into AI integration or data analysis will find new and exciting roles within animation studios, securing their place in an ever-evolving industry.

Preparing for the Future: What Animators Can Do Today

As AI continues to play a larger role in the animation world, there are steps animators can take to future-proof their careers. Here are a few actionable tips for adapting to the changes:

1. Learn AI Tools: Start familiarizing yourself with AI-based animation software and tools. Many studios are looking for animators who can seamlessly integrate these technologies into their workflow.
2. Stay up to Date: The AI landscape is evolving quickly. Keep up with the latest advancements by reading industry blogs, attending webinars, and experimenting with new AI tools.
3. Develop a Hybrid Skill Set: Blend your creative skills with technical know-how. For example, learning how to code or understanding machine learning principles can give you a leg up in the industry.
4. Be Open to New Roles: The animation industry is increasingly looking for hybrid roles that combine creative and technical expertise. Keep an eye out for job opportunities that focus on AI integration and management.
5. Focus on Creativity: While AI is powerful, it still needs a human touch. Focus on honing your creativity, storytelling skills, and artistic vision—elements that no AI can replicate.

Final Thoughts: Embracing the Change

The future of animation is undeniably shaped by AI and automation. These technologies are changing the way animators work, but they’re also creating exciting new opportunities for professionals who are willing to embrace the changes. Whether it’s speeding up production, enhancing creativity, or opening doors to new job roles, AI is here to stay in the animation industry.

As animators, we have the opportunity to grow alongside these advancements, using them to create more innovative and engaging content. The key is to stay curious, adapt to the changes, and keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in animation. After all, AI may change the process, but it’s the human touch that will always bring animation to life.

So, the next time you fire up an animation program and see AI-powered features at work, remember this: technology is just a tool. It’s your creativity that will truly make the magic happen.