ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

3D Character Rigger Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Thatgamecompany

3D Character Artist (Mid-Senior)

$81K - $114K/yr

3D Character Artist (Mid-Senior) thatgamecompany is looking for a Mid-Senior 3D Character Artist to ... Familiarity with Maya rigging/skinning Nice to Haves: * A passionate Gamer * A Sky Player * Human ...

Side

3D Character Artist - Talent Pool (N Americas)

$123K - $130K/yr

As a 3D Character Artist , you will play a key role in crafting high-quality characters that bring ... Ensure proper topology, rigging, and skinning for characters to meet animation and gameplay ...

Valicy

3D Animator

Wilmington, NC

... 3d character animations for games produced by the team - Rigging and weight painting the prepared 3d characters for animation - Animate real time popups/motion graphics in 3d space to be used in ...

DK Global

3D Generalist

Redlands, CA · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

We specialize in 3D animated visual aids for attorneys to use in demand packages, mediation, and ... Character Rigging with CAT. * Lighting and rendering with Vray. * Knowledge of 3ds Max Particles ...

Scattermesh

Senior 3D Technical Character Artist

Herndon, VA · On-site

$130K - $156K/yr

... 3D Technical Facial Character Artists to work across client projects on a full time basis on-site ... The ideal candidate should have experience in rigging, sculpting, python/mel, shading, texture ...

DK Global

3D Generalist

Redlands, CA

$90K - $120K/yr

We specialize in 3D animated visual aids for attorneys to use in demand packages, mediation, and ... Character Rigging with CAT. * Lighting and rendering with Vray. * Knowledge of 3ds Max Particles ...

Scattermesh

Senior 3D Technical Character Artist

Herndon, VA · On-site

$130K - $156K/yr

... 3D Technical Facial Character Artists to work across client projects on a full time basis on-site ... The ideal candidate should have experience in rigging, sculpting, python/mel, shading, texture ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All Jobs3D Character Rigger Jobs

3D Character Rigger information

See salary details

$14

$26

$36

How much do 3d character rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for 3d character rigger in the United States is $26.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.08 and $29.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between 3D Character Rigger vs 3D Modeler?

Aspect3D Character Rigger3D Modeler
Primary RoleCreates skeletal structures and controls for character animationBuilds detailed 3D models of characters, objects, or environments
Skills & ToolsRigging software (Maya, Blender), anatomy knowledgeModeling software (Maya, ZBrush), topology, texturing
Work EnvironmentAnimation studios, game development, VFXModeling studios, game design, VFX
CredentialsOften requires knowledge of anatomy, rigging techniquesRequires strong modeling and texturing skills

While both roles work closely in the 3D pipeline, a 3D Character Rigger focuses on creating the underlying skeleton and controls for animation, whereas a 3D Modeler builds the detailed character models. Understanding both roles helps in collaborative production environments.

What are some common challenges faced by 3D Character Riggers when working on diverse animation projects?

3D Character Riggers often encounter challenges such as adapting rigs to accommodate a wide variety of character designs and animation styles, ensuring both flexibility and stability in movement. Collaborating closely with modelers and animators is crucial to address issues like skin deformation and maintaining consistent quality across different assets. Additionally, Riggers must frequently troubleshoot technical problems that arise with new software tools or unique project requirements, making strong problem-solving skills essential for success in this role.

What are 3D Character Riggers?

3D Character Riggers are professionals in the animation, film, and gaming industries who create the digital skeletons and controls that allow 3D characters to move realistically. They build rigs—internal structures of bones and joints—so that animators can manipulate characters for movement, expression, and action. Riggers must have a solid understanding of anatomy, movement, and software tools like Maya or Blender. Their work is essential for bringing digital characters to life in movies, video games, and visual effects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 3D Character Rigger, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 3D Character Rigger, you need a solid understanding of anatomy, kinematics, and computer graphics, often supported by a degree in animation or a related field. Proficiency in industry-standard tools like Autodesk Maya, Blender, and scripting languages such as Python or MEL is typically required. Strong problem-solving, communication, and attention to detail are valuable soft skills for collaborating with animators and technical artists. These skills ensure efficient rig creation, seamless character movement, and smooth production pipelines in animation and game development.
More about 3D Character Rigger jobs
What cities are hiring for 3D Character Rigger jobs? Cities with the most 3D Character Rigger job openings:
What states have the most 3D Character Rigger jobs? States with the most job openings for 3D Character Rigger jobs include:
What job categories do people searching 3D Character Rigger jobs look for? The top searched job categories for 3D Character Rigger jobs are:
3D Character Rigger jobs near you
3D Character Artist (Mid-Senior)

3D Character Artist (Mid-Senior)

thatgamecompany

Los Angeles, CA • Remote

$81K - $114K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Job description

3D Character Artist (Mid-Senior)

thatgamecompany is looking for a Mid-Senior 3D Character Artist to join our team!

Responsibilities:

  • Create 3D characters and cosmetics in a visual style aligned with the world of Sky

  • Skinning character and cosmetic assets

  • Collaborate with project leads, concept artists, designers, and engineers

  • Brainstorm ideas and create rapid 3D prototypes during the concept and design phase

  • Support the rest of the 3D team to create character assets

  • Review and fix bugs of all complexities

  • Contribute to documentation and resource libraries for the art department

  • Promote, contribute to, and participate in a culture of inclusion and diversity

Must Haves:

  • Online portfolio demonstrating character art skills

  • 3+ years of experience as a 3D Character Artist at a game studio

  • Proficient modeling skills in Maya or equivalent

  • Self-motivated, humble, and a team player

  • Open-minded and able to implement feedback from peers and art directors in a timely manner

  • Passion for creating memorable characters for games

  • Understanding of Industry Standard Software such as Photoshop, ZBrush, and Texture Creation/Material Editing (Substance Painter/Unity)

  • Familiarity with Maya rigging/skinning

Nice to Haves:

  • A passionate Gamer

  • A Sky Player

  • Human Anatomy & Animal Anatomy knowledge

  • Understanding of clothing construction and real-world materials

  • Strive to create a gaming experience that brings a positive impact to the gaming world

  • Experience creating a game from the ground up

  • Portfolio demonstrating a variety of art styles


Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S or Canada. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.
The salary range for this position is $81,000 USD to $114,000 USD annually, with the opportunity to earn an annual discretionary bonus. This salary range is an estimate, and the actual salary may vary based on the Company’s compensation practices.
Employees in this position are eligible to participate in the Company’s standard employee benefit programs, which currently include the following: medical, dental, vision, 401k, and paid time off.

Our base pay is benchmarked against regional market and industry data and is adjusted to reflect the cost of living in your specific geographic area.

We look forward to meeting you!
#L1-Remote