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3D Character Rigger Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Roblox

3D Animator (Short Term)

San Mateo, CA

You'll focus on creating high-quality, foundational character animations for the Roblox platform ... quality facial rigging/expression work * Expert-level skills in Autodesk Maya for animation ...

Roblox

3D Animator (Short Term)

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$9.1K - $11K/mo

You'll focus on creating high-quality, foundational character animations for the Roblox platform ... quality facial rigging/expression work * Expert-level skills in Autodesk Maya for animation ...

Daybreak Games

Principal Animator

San Diego, CA · On-site +1

$160K - $180K/yr

... with character artists, riggers, and modelers to resolve animation-related issues and improve ... 3D animation software) with 5+ years of professional use Strong experience with at least one major ...

Cloud Chamber

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA · On-site

$124K - $142K/yr

Maintain a strong understanding of character performance, form, gestures, and silhouettes for both ... Exemplary skills in keyframe, stylized 3D animation, using Maya and/or Motion Builder. * Experience ...

2K

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA

$124K - $142K/yr

Maintain a strong understanding of character performance, form, gestures, and silhouettes for both ... Exemplary skills in keyframe, stylized 3D animation, using Maya and/or Motion Builder. * Experience ...

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3D Character Rigger information

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.
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3D Character Rigger jobs near you
Infographic showing various 3D Character Rigger job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution.
3D Animator (Short Term)

3D Animator (Short Term)

Roblox

San Mateo, CA

Other

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

We're seeking a talented Senior 3D Animator to join our team at Roblox for a 6-month engagement. You'll focus on creating high-quality, foundational character animations for the Roblox platform-specifically basic ability and locomotion sets that bring avatars to life with polish and personality.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute directly to core Roblox avatar experiences used by millions of players worldwide.

You Will:
  • Create and refine a suite of standard locomotion and ability animations, including:
    • Idle poses (variations for personality/stance)
    • Walk, run, sprint cycles
    • Jump, land, fall animations
    • Other basic movement/ability actions as needed
  • Deliver clean, weighty, and expressive animations optimized for Roblox's avatar system (R15 preferred)
  • Iterate quickly based on feedback from animation leads, designers, and engineers
  • Export animations properly for Roblox Studio integration (using compatible formats and best practices)
  • Use SyncSketch (or similar) for review and approval workflows
You Have:
  • Strong experience in character animation, with a focus on creating believable, game-ready locomotion and action animations
  • Excellent acting skills through motion-conveying emotion, weight, timing, and personality in movement
  • Proficiency in FACS-based facial animation (Facial Action Coding System) or equivalent high-quality facial rigging/expression work
  • Expert-level skills in Autodesk Maya for animation production and Tools
  • Familiarity with SyncSketch (or comparable online review/approval tools)
  • Proven track record creating animations for video games (mobile, PC, or console experience a plus)
  • Strong sense of timing, weight, anticipation, follow-through, and polish in game animation principles

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