Art Director - Ilustration and Animation

We are seeking an experienced Art Director to help shape and scale the visual identity of a large product ecosystem used by millions of people. This role combines strategic creative direction with hands on illustration and animation, working closely with illustrators, designers, engineers, and cross functional partners to build a cohesive illustration system across the product. The ideal candidate is an experienced illustrator with strong art direction skills, a systems mindset, and a passion for creating clear, engaging visual storytelling that enhances the user experience. Responsibilities Lead the creative direction for product illustrations and lightweight animations. Translate product goals and user needs into actionable creative briefs. Direct illustrators while also producing high quality illustration work. Maintain and evolve illustration standards, style guides, and design systems. Ensure consistency across illustration libraries, color systems, and product experiences. Collaborate with product designers, content designers, engineers, animators, and cross functional stakeholders. Present concepts, participate in design critiques, workshops, and creative reviews. Manage multiple projects while balancing quality, speed, and evolving priorities. Identify opportunities to improve illustration workflows, including the use of AI tools. Required Qualifications Portfolio demonstrating both art direction and hands on illustration work (required). Four or more years of professional illustration experience. Experience leading creative direction for illustration projects. Advanced proficiency with Adobe Illustrator and vector graphics. Experience creating or directing simple vector animations using After Effects. Strong proficiency in Figma. Exceptional illustration, composition, color, and visual storytelling skills. Preferred Qualifications Experience working within product design or technology organizations. Experience developing and maintaining illustration systems or design systems. Strong understanding of how illustration supports product usability and user experience. Excellent communication and collaboration skills. Highly detail oriented with a systems thinking approach. Interest in leveraging AI tools to improve creative workflows. Portfolio submissions are required for consideration. Pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act, Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, qualified applicants will be considered for assignment with arrest and conviction records. Criminal history may have a direct, adverse, and negative relationship with some of the material job duties of this position. These include the duties and responsibilities listed above, as well as the abilities to adhere to company policies, exercise sound judgment, effectively manage stress and work safely and respectfully with others, exhibit trustworthiness, meet client expectations, standards, and accompanying requirements, and safeguard business operations and company reputation. Location : United States (Remote) Role type: Contract 6 Month Position Expected hours : 40 per week Benefits: Dental insurance Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance Schedule: 8 hour shift Monday to Friday Application Question(s): Do you or will you in the future require any sponsorship to work in the US? Language: English (Required)