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3D Character Rigger Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Roblox

Senior 3D Artist, Technical

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$163K - $200K/yr

Partner with engineers to prototype and guide the development of our movement and rigging systems ... Familiarity with scripting languages and node-based character controllers (i.e. Unreal Blueprints ...

NJI Media LLC

Motion Graphic Designer

Washington, DC

... character rigging, and beyond. * Design for the Moment: Produce fast-turnaround graphics for the ... Are you dabbling in 3D, or emerging AI tools? We value those with wide creative curiosities and ...

NJI Media LLC

Motion Graphic Designer

Washington, DC · On-site

... character rigging, and beyond. * Design for the Moment: Produce fast-turnaround graphics for the ... Are you dabbling in 3D, or emerging AI tools? We value those with wide creative curiosities and ...

Roblox

Senior 3D Artist, Technical

San Mateo, CA

$144K - $173K/yr

Partner with engineers to prototype and guide the development of our movement and rigging systems ... Familiarity with scripting languages and node-based character controllers (i.e. Unreal Blueprints ...

NxT Level

Technical Artist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $156K/yr

Work across several art disciplines including shading, environment art, character art, animation ... Lead efforts in building foundational systems for art to establish scenes, animation, rigging, FX ...

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3D Character Rigger information

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$26

$36

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

As of Jul 4, 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.
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3D Character Rigger jobs near you
Infographic showing various 3D Character Rigger job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 18% Full Time, 64% Part Time, 12% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,114 per year, or $26 per hour.

Expression of Interest - Rigging Artist

AGBO Films LLC

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Temporary

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

About the Company:
Founded in 2017 by Anthony and Joe Russo, AGBO is an artist-led independent studio shaping the future of film and television. The Russo Brothers and AGBO have generated more than $7 billion at the global box office, including Avengers: Endgame. The studio's projects include Academy Award-winning Everything Everywhere All at Once, Netflix hits The Gray Man and Extraction, and Prime Video's visceral thriller The Bluff and the global Citadel franchise. Citadel Season 2 premieres in May 2026.
AGBO is currently in production with Netflix on Tygo and Mercenary, both part of the Extraction universe, as well as with Lionsgate on John Rambo, a prequel to the iconic franchise. The studio is in post-production on The Whisper Man, starring Robert De Niro, and Avengers: Doomsday, which will be released December 18, 2026. AGBO will begin shooting Avengers: Secret Wars later this year. Both upcoming Avengers films are directed by Anthony and Joe Russo and co-produced by AGBO and Marvel Studios.
About the Position:
AGBO is seeking a talented Rigging Artist to join our Visual Effects (VFX) team. The Rigging Artist is responsible for designing and creating complex character and creature rigs and pipeline for use in various projects. They collaborate closely with animators, modelers, and other team members to ensure that characters and creatures move realistically and convincingly within the context of the project.
This is an Expression of Interest role.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Work with department heads to design and build sophisticated character and creature rigs using industry-standard software like Autodesk Maya, Houdini, Blender, or similar tools. This may include creating skeletons, muscle systems, deformations, and control setups.
  • Prepare characters for animation by setting up skinning and weighting to ensure that the mesh deforms correctly as the character moves.
  • Develop facial rigs that allow animators to create expressive facial animations, including lip-syncing, blinking, and emotive expressions.
  • Implement realistic body mechanics in rigs, such as joint limitations, muscle simulations, and secondary animations like cloth and hair.
  • Write scripts and use automation tools to streamline rigging processes and improve efficiency.
  • Troubleshoot rigging issues and provide creative solutions to technical challenges that may arise during the animation process.
  • Collaborate closely with animators, modelers, and other team members to ensure rigs meet the artistic and technical requirements of the project.
  • Maintain detailed documentation and guidelines for the rigs to facilitate smooth handovers to animators and other team members.
  • Provide guidance and mentorship to junior rigging artists, sharing best practices and helping them develop their skills.
  • Keep up-to-date with industry trends, tools, and techniques related to rigging and animation to ensure the team's work remains at the cutting edge of the field.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Animation, Computer Graphics, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
  • 5+ years of proven experience as a Rigging Artist in the animation or VFX industry, with a strong portfolio showcasing your rigging work.
  • Proficiency in industry-standard 3D software, such as Maya or Blender.
  • Solid understanding of anatomy, kinematics, and character movement.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work creatively within technical constraints.
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
  • Leadership abilities and experience in mentoring junior artists is a plus
  • Metahuman experience is a plus.
  • Familiarity with scripting languages like Python for automation is a bonus.

Additional Information:
  • This is a temporary position with the possibility of extension based on project needs.
  • This is an Expression of Interest role. You will be contacted once an opportunity becomes available.
  • Remote candidates may be considered; however, preference will be given to those who can work in Los Angeles.
  • Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without the need for sponsorship.
  • Please submit a portfolio or demo reel for consideration.

AGBO Labs LLC is committed to operating fair and unbiased recruitment procedures allowing all applicants an equal opportunity for employment, free from discrimination on the basis of religion, race, sex, age, sexual orientation, disability, color, ethnic or national origin or any other classification as may be protected by applicable law. We aim to recruit the right people for the jobs we have to offer, and to assess applications on the basis of relevant skills, education and experience.
AGBO participates in E-Verify - English | Spanish
The job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent to this position.

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