Chicago Fire FC - Manager, Animation & Video

Animator is needed in Chicago, United States.

Client: Chicago Fire FC

Location: Chicago, IL

Contract: Full-time, Full-time

Job Description

Chicago Fire Football Club is seeking a dynamic, forward-thinking Manager of Animation & Video for our Digital Content & Social Media and Brand Marketing teams to help build an industry-leading content capability. The individual in this role will be responsible for the development, creation, and organization of animation assets and video content for the Fire’s digital and social platforms. The focus will be on creating high volume, quality animation and video content for all social platforms, while assisting team members with the conceptual planning, ideation, and production of material requested by departments across the entire organization. The candidate will report to the Senior Manager of Video and work within the larger Creative, Marketing, and Communications group.

Requirements

Qualifications:

• Minimum 3-5 years of creative animation and video production experience in sports or events industry, agency, or related in-house environment.
• Mastery knowledge of Adobe After Effects and Premiere Pro.
• Intermediate knowledge of Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator.
• Strong knowledge with using professional cinema cameras.
• Knowledge with lighting set-up and interview composition.
• Experience with project management tools like Asana.
• Experience pitching a creative vision through content – ability to communicate this effectively with other partners.
• Well organized with the ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines.
• Proven ability to interact and brainstorm concepts within a team setting.
• Good relationship builder across both the business & sporting sides of the organization.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, professional in presentation.
• Willingness to learn in a fast-paced, performance-driven work environment.
• Ability to work non-traditional hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Applicants must provide a strong portfolio or demo reel upon submission.
• Capable of lifting 50 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Lead every facet of animation and develop efficient workflows within Adobe libraries and motion templates.
• Collaborate with the video, design, social, and match presentation team for consistent brand implementation.
• Produce high-quality visual content for social media channels primarily through motion graphics and gifs.
• Create unique content for marketing initiatives and assist with in-stadium presentations when requested.
• Execute creative ideas to promote theme nights, key match-ups, and ticket offers through animation and video.
• Manage projects and provide art direction for external animation work.
• Contribute to the marketing strategy and success in team and cross-department meetings.
• Attend home and selected road matches to capture and produce content pre-, during, and post-match.
• Assist with filming, editing, and coloring of player interviews and other video content.
• Grow social audiences, especially on key channels like Instagram and X.
• Transport, set up, and operate production equipment for various settings.
• Log and archive video clips for future accessibility.
• Stay updated with the latest trends in content creation and digital media.
• Seek out new tools and techniques to enhance content creation.

Additional Information

Chicago Fire FC is committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion. The organization welcomes all diverse candidates to apply. It is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and maintaining a workplace free from discrimination. If accommodations are needed during the application process due to a medical condition or disability, applicants should contact the People and Culture Department.