Employment of multimedia artists and animators is expected to grow by 8 percent from 2010 to 2020, slower than the average for all occupations. Expected growth will be due to increased demand for animation and visual effects in video games, movies, and television. However, it will be slowed by companies hiring animators who work oversees.
Consumers will continue to demand more realistic video games, movie and television special effects, and three-dimensional movies. Video game studios will require additional multimedia artists and animators to meet this increased demand.
In addition, an increased demand for computer graphics for mobile devices, such as smart phones, will lead to more job opportunities. Multimedia artists will be needed to create animation for games and applications for mobile devices.
However, growth will likely be limited because some animation work is being sent to other countries. Studios can often save money on animation by using lower-paid workers outside of the United States.
From 2010 to 2020, employment growth of multimedia artists and animators in the industries employing the most multimedia artists and animators is expected to be as follows:
| Software publishers | 49% |
| Computer systems design and related services | 43 |
| Advertising, public relations, and related services | 17 |
| Motion picture and video industries | -5 |
Despite job growth, there will be competition for job openings because many people are interested in entering the occupation. Opportunities should be best for those who have artistic talent or who are highly skilled in creating computer graphics.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition