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3D Character Rigger Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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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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What job categories do people searching 3D Character Rigger jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for 3D Character Rigger jobs in California are:
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3D Character Rigger jobs near you
Infographic showing various 3D Character Rigger job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.
3D Character Animator (6 month contract)

3D Character Animator (6 month contract)

Sunday Inc

Redwood City, CA • On-site

Contractor

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Join Us in Building the Future of Home Robotics
At Sunday, we're developing personal robots to reclaim the hours lost to repetitive tasks. We're focused on an ambitious goal to make generalized robots broadly accessible, enabling households to take back quality time.
We have spent the last 18 months building a talented team, securing capital, and validating our technology. We are now seeking passionate individuals to join us in the next phase of our growth. If you are ready to apply your skills to the forefront of robotics innovation, we'd love to hear from you.
What to Expect
We are seeking an experienced 3D Character Animator (6 month contract) to join our product team. In this role, you will create iconic character moments and subtle physical cues for human-robot interaction that make Memo a pleasure to interact with. This contract has the potential to transition into a full-time role based on performance and business needs.
What You'll Do
  • Craft Iconic Moments: As customer's first home robot, everything Memo does will make an impression. You'll shape key moments that establish Memo's approachability and reliability.
  • Rapid Iteration with Engineering and Product Teams: As part of a cross-functional team, you'll prepare several rough mock ups for each interaction, then refine and down-select them iteratively by incorporating feedback from product, engineering and users.
  • Build Memo's Movement Vocabulary: Define and refine Memo's movement style as it goes about household tasks.

What You'll Bring
  • Industry-Grade Animation Experience: A portfolio demonstrating 3D character work in industry-standard tools such as Maya or Blender.
  • Movement Design for Physical Products: Experience in robotics, installation art, or related fields creating interactive experiences in physical space.
  • Excellent Communication, Collaboration and Documentation: A strong commitment to clarifying constraints and opportunities, tracking animation versions, and synthesizing feedback to guide future animations.
  • An Explorer's Spirit: We're charting new territory. If harnessing mid-process discoveries and overcoming unexpected obstacles to bring a character to life excites you, this is the job for you!

Nice To Haves
  • Rigging or Modeling Experience: Experience building your own rigs or 3D environments to place characters in a broader world.
  • Procedural or Responsive Animation Experience: Past work with animations that respond to user inputs or dynamic environments.

At Sunday Robotics, we're building technology shaped by real people - curious, creative, and diverse. We're proud to be an equal opportunity employer and consider all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.
Even if you don't meet every single requirement, we encourage you to apply. Studies show that women and underrepresented groups often hold back unless they meet 100% of the criteria - we don't want that to be the reason we miss out on great talent.

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