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3D Character Rigger Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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3D Character Rigger information

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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.
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3D Character Rigger jobs near you
Assistant Professor, Digital Media Design

Assistant Professor, Digital Media Design

Florida Gulf Coast University

Fort Myers, FL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Job Summary
The Digital Media Design (B.A.) curriculum at FGCU focuses on the intersection of design and innovation. The Digital Media Design (DMD) Program is currently housed within the Daveler & Kauanui School of Entrepreneurship. Beginning with the 2026-27 academic year, DMD will transition to the Bower School of Music & the Arts, where it will become a fully integrated component of the FGCU Art & Design Program. Students of the DMD program are well prepared to begin careers in the creative industries.
The position of Assistant Professor, Digital Media Design should have a solid background in design and be able to teach the fundamentals of design to undergraduate design students. An ideal candidate would also have a record of accomplishment in the animation or games industries, specifically in 3D animation. Key skills would focus on modeling and texturing including proficiency in character rigging and modeling for animation and games, modeling for digital sets and environments, and digital sculpting and painting.
Candidates for this position must be able to demonstrate a strength in teaching design courses both practical and theoretical. The ideal candidate is expected to continue to develop their professional practice as a designer with research, exhibitions and/or client-based creative work. Additionally, the ideal candidate will be able to contribute to the development of the program by offering different perspectives and unique approaches to their practice and teaching methodologies.
Florida Gulf Coast University is a regional comprehensive university dedicated to quality education, research, and service. All faculty are expected to be excellent teachers, and responsive to changing professional needs; be committed to innovative delivery of instruction resulting in improved student learning; be committed to effective use of technology including distance learning; produce peer reviewed scholarship; and provide service to the College, University and Community. Teaching assignments may be on the main campus or at off-campus sites within our region.
Job Description
Typical duties may include but are not limited to:
  • Teach 9 credit hours per semester of undergraduate courses or as assigned and adequately perform other duties/responsibilities as articulated on the annual assignment.
  • Teach across a variety of design disciplines and media platforms such as:
    • Principles of Design
    • 3D Animation
    • Digital Illustration
    • Concept Art production
    • Principles of animation
    • 3D modelling and sculpting
    • Character animation
    • Rigging
    • Lighting, and texturing
    • Particle systems and motion graphics development
    • Interface Design
    • Motion capture
  • Plans, prepares, and teaches assigned courses, including developing syllabi, instructional materials, and assessments.
  • Delivers consistent, interactive, and engaging lectures aligned with curriculum goals and accreditation standards.
  • Maintains the highest standards of classroom instruction and engages in reflective self-assessment to ensure continuous improvement.
  • Holds regular office hours and provides academic advising and individual support to students.
  • Utilizes the University's learning management system and other instructional technologies effectively.
  • Collaborates with departmental faculty on curriculum development and program advancement.
  • Ensures curriculum outcomes and accreditation standards are met.
  • Establishes and maintains an active research program, including opportunities for undergraduate student involvement.
  • Demonstrates evidence of scholarly publication and grantsmanship.
  • Engages in continued professional development and maintains professional skills appropriate to rank and field.
  • Actively participates in departmental, college, and university committees and meetings.
  • Contributes to community, institutional, and professional service in support of the University's mission.
  • Participates in faculty evaluation, student learning assessment, and required training activities.
  • Communicates professionally and in a timely manner with students, colleagues, staff, and administrators.
  • Upholds the highest standards of integrity, responsibility, and excellence in all professional activities.
  • Complies with University policies, procedures, and the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Additional Job Description
Required Qualifications:
  • Ph.D. or MFA in Digital Arts, Digital Media, Digital Design or closely related field or equivalent from a regionally accredited university institution.
  • ABD will be considered if degree is conferred by August 7, 2026. If successful candidate is ABD, appointment will be made at a Lecturer level on a fixed contract.
  • Experience with professional design/game/entertainment studios or non-profit organizations and build relationships for internships, funding and student careers.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Three years of teaching experience at BA, BFA or MFA level.
  • Broad-based expertise in modern and contemporary issues in digital art.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Knowledge of major concepts, assumptions, debates, processes of inquiry, and ways of knowing that are central to the discipline(s).
  • Understanding how to use digital and interactive technologies for efficiently and effectively achieving specific learning goals.
  • Knowledge of critical thinking processes and understanding how to help learners develop high level questioning skills.
  • Knowledge and skill in the use of inquiry-based instructional models and strategies.
  • Knowledge and ability to use technology in various teaching modalities (e.g. Face-to-face, synchronous online or asynchronous online).
  • Ability to collaborate with stakeholders both within and outside the University in the development and delivery of instruction, resulting in improved student learning.

Special Instructions to Applicants:
Appointment will be made on a 9-month multi-year appointment with an anticipated start date of August 2026.
Because applications and materials are subject to public review and retention under Florida's Public Records Law, please DO NOT send examples of your project/scholarship unless requested to do so. Therefore, all submitted materials, including articles, disks, slides, books, etc., become the property of FGCU and CANNOT BE RETURNED. As applicable, finalists will be notified of the need to submit specific additional materials. Such materials will become the property of FGCU. Under Florida's Public Records law, applications will be available for public review upon request.
Required Application Materials:
  • Unofficial Transcripts
  • Statement of Teaching Philosophy
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Cover Letter
  • Five (5) Professional References
  • Provide a link in a Word Document to an online portfolio of your work and examples of student work - Place in Additional Documents Section

The position is listed as "open until filled", however applications received by December 30, 2025 will receive priority consideration.
FGCU is a State University System of Florida member and an Equal Opportunity and Equal Access employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

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