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3D Character Rigger Jobs in Louisiana (NOW HIRING)

The 3D Tracking / Matchmove Artist will focus on tracking environments and character features (such ... Working knowledge of rigging workflows, animation principles, and stylized performance-driven ...

The 3D Tracking / Matchmove Artist will focus on tracking environments and character features (such ... Working knowledge of rigging workflows, animation principles, and stylized performance-driven ...

Senior CG Lighting Artist

New Orleans, LA · Hybrid

$122K - $146K/yr

This role is central to maintaining the emotional fidelity and character consistency of our hybrid ... Understanding of CG modelling and rigging workflows. * Basic knowledge of texture mapping ...

Senior CG Lighting Artist

New Orleans, LA · On-site

$122K - $146K/yr

This role is central to maintaining the emotional fidelity and character consistency of our hybrid ... Understanding of CG modelling and rigging workflows. * Basic knowledge of texture mapping ...

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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Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:

Swaybox Studios is seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented 3D Tracking / Matchmove Artist to help bridge the gap between live-action footage and CG integration. In this role, you'll be responsible for extracting motion data from filmed plates, tracking both environments and facial performance, and aligning CG elements with precise real-world movement-whether using lidar scans, measurements, or solving without them.

The 3D Tracking / Matchmove Artist will focus on tracking environments and character features (such as: face, hands, legs, etc.) with a handoff to the layout, animation, and compositing teams. This person will play a hands-on role in ensuring seamless tracking blends of practical and CG, improving workflows, resolving creative challenges, and collaborating with Supervisors and Technical Directors to evolve tools that enhance production efficiency. 

This is a studio-based role working onsite in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Perform accurate 3D camera and object tracking in live-action plates with or without on-set measurements and lidar scans.
  • Implement best practices in our tracking pipeline, ensuring the environment and object tracking are seamlessly matched to the camera and puppet facial performances.
  • Hand-key and solve complex motion where automated solutions fall short.
  • Deliver clean and tight matchmove data, including STMaps, to layout, animation, and compositing departments.
  • Create rotomation of CG character rigs to match puppet movement, as needed.
  • Maintain output quality and momentum in a fast-paced environment.
  • Collaborate with the VFX and CG teams to troubleshoot tracking challenges and maintain alignment with production needs.

Required Qualifications:

  • 3+ years experience as a matchmove or tracking artist in film, episodic, or high-end VFX.
  • Expert knowledge of matchmoving principles: camera focal lengths, lens distortion, film backs, rolling shutter, parallax, and real-world camera behavior.
  • Strong proficiency in 3DEqualizer and Maya.
  • Basic knowledge of Nuke to create slapcomps for presentation and handoff to the compositing team.
  • Prior experience with rotomation.
  • Deep understanding and experience with object and face tracking using KeenTools.
  • Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to adapt quickly to unique or proprietary workflows.
  • In-depth knowledge of layout, cinematic language, camera operation, and on-set data acquisition practices.
  • Proven ability to work independently and maintain accuracy under tight deadlines.
  • An artistic mindset and willingness to receive and implement constructive feedback, whether that's with draw-overs, over the shoulder adjustments, or team meetings.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience using PFTrack, Syntheyes, and MMSolver.
  • Familiarity with performance capture, and Nuke for projection and compositing integration.
  • Working knowledge of rigging workflows, animation principles, and stylized performance-driven animation pipelines.
  • Scripting skills in Python, PySide, PyQT, or MEL to improve workflow or develop internal tools.