ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

2D Rigging Artist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Flying Bark Productions

3D Animation Lead

Denver, NC · On-site

The lead also coaches junior artists, collaborates with other departments, and supports production ... An understanding of rigs and typical rigging set-ups, animation pipelines and transferring data ...

Flying Bark Productions

3D Animation Lead

Denver, NC · On-site +1

The lead also coaches junior artists, collaborates with other departments, and supports production ... An understanding of rigs and typical rigging set-ups, animation pipelines and transferring data ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All Jobs2D Rigging Artist Jobs

2D Rigging Artist information

See salary details

$14

$24

$52

How much do 2d rigging artist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for 2d rigging artist in the United States is $24.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 2D Rigging Artist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 2D Rigging Artist, you need strong drawing fundamentals, a solid understanding of animation principles, and experience with rigging processes, typically demonstrated through a relevant degree or portfolio. Proficiency in industry-standard software such as Toon Boom Harmony, Adobe Animate, or Spine is essential, as is familiarity with digital asset management systems. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective collaboration with animators and designers are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure that character rigs are functional, efficient, and adaptable, enabling smooth animation workflows and high-quality final output.

What are 2D Rigging Artists?

2D Rigging Artists are professionals who create digital skeletons and movement controls for 2D characters and objects in animation or video games. Their work enables animators to move characters smoothly and efficiently by defining how different parts of the character bend, stretch, and interact. They use specialized software to build rigs, ensuring that the animation process is both flexible and realistic. 2D Rigging Artists collaborate closely with animators, character designers, and technical directors to achieve expressive and dynamic movement.

What are common challenges faced by 2D Rigging Artists when working on animated productions?

2D Rigging Artists often encounter challenges such as creating rigs that balance flexibility with simplicity, ensuring that character movements appear natural while remaining easy for animators to use. They must adapt rigs to accommodate changes in character design or animation style throughout a project, which can require iterative problem-solving. Additionally, collaborating closely with animators and designers is essential to address feedback quickly and maintain workflow efficiency. Staying updated with the latest rigging tools and software is also important for meeting production demands.
Infographic showing various 2D Rigging Artist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,785 per year, or $24.9 per hour.
Adjunct Faculty, 2D Animation (On Campus)

Adjunct Faculty, 2D Animation (On Campus)

Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design

Lakewood, CO

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Adjunct Faculty, 2D Animation (On Campus)
Salary: $2,440 (lecture) – $3,340 (studio) per class, per term
Location: Lakewood, CO
Target Fill Date: June 1st, 2026
Rocky Mountain College of Art +Design is looking for an Adjunct Professor who has expertise in 2D Animation. The faculty member works with the Chair and Program Lead of the Animation program, working closely with students, faculty, and administrative staff to advance teaching, student clubs and activities, co-curricular experiences, and curriculum development. They will work closely with academic leadership with a focus on teaching, monitoring and improving student learning and success, and performing duties as assigned by the Chair and the Program Lead.
RMCAD’s Digital Arts + Media Department offers degree programs rooted in industry-aligned practices, emerging technologies, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The successful applicant will have demonstrated expertise in Animation workflows, with an emphasis on character motion studies, performance-based animation, and scene development using Toon Boom Harmony. This position supports the continued design, development, and delivery of dynamic, studio-centered curricula and the advancement of learning outcomes to prepare students for leadership in an evolving digital landscape.
Required Qualifications
  • A graduate degree (MA, MS, MFA, MDes, or equivalent) in Animation, Game Art, Game Design, relevant Motion Graphics, OR a bachelors degree with a sustained record of professional or studio-based work in these areas.
  • Proficiency using and teaching industry-leading 2D Animation software, including, but not limited to ToonBoom Harmony (required), Storyboard Pro (required), Adobe Photoshop (bonus) Adobe After Effects (bonus), etc
  • Examples of pedagogical approaches that align with the institution's mission and values, along with evidence of effective and inclusive teaching that values a diverse student body.
Preferred Qualifications
  • A terminal degree (MFA or PhD) in Art, Design, or a related discipline OR equivalent professional distinction recognized at a national or international level.
  • 2+ years of teaching experience in an accredited postsecondary institution with proven expertise in teaching Animation or related digital media.
  • A sustained record of professional or studio-based work in Animation or related digital media, demonstrated through published short/feature films, series work, studio credits, freelance projects, portfolio, and/or client-based productions.
  • Ongoing engagement with contemporary, emerging industry practices and pipelines with demonstrated expertise in 2D animation production workflows, including character animation, scene development, and rigging/puppetry in Toon Boom Harmony. Experience with storyboarding, motion graphics, or visual development pipelines is also valued.
  • Courses taught may include 2D Animation I–IV (motion studies through advanced scene work), Drawing + Acting for Animation, Storyboarding, and Motion Graphics.
  • Candidates should have experience with character animation, performance-based animation, and scene development using Toon Boom Harmony. Experience with puppetry and rigging workflows in Toon Boom Harmony is strongly encouraged.
  • Knowledge of Storyboard Pro, Adobe Photoshop, and After Effects is preferred.
Working Conditions
This position involves teaching in a higher education environment and may include in-person and/or online instruction depending on course assignment. The role may require a flexible schedule, including daytime and evening hours. Work is typically performed in a classroom, studio, and/or computer-based environment and involves regular use of digital tools and software. The position requires interaction with students in both individual and group settings. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.
Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Apply