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3D Character Rigging Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Strong understanding of character rigging, skinning, deformation, body mechanics, and animation principles. * Proficiency in Maya, Blender, or comparable 3D animation software. * Ability to rapidly ...

Technical Animator

Seattle, WA · On-site

$45 - $46/hr

Strong understanding of character rigging, skinning, deformation, body mechanics, and animation principles. * Proficiency in Maya, Blender, or comparable 3D animation software. * Ability to rapidly ...

3D Character Rigging information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$11

$21

$43

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

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for 3d character rigging in Seattle, WA is $21.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the salary of 3D character rigging artist?

The salary of a 3D character rigging artist typically ranges from $50,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level artists may earn less, while experienced professionals with advanced skills in software like Maya or Blender can earn higher salaries, especially in larger studios or competitive markets.

What is the difference between 3D Character Rigging vs 3D Modeler?

Aspect3D Character Rigging3D Modeler
Primary FocusCreating skeletons and controls for animationModeling 3D objects and characters
Skills RequiredRigging techniques, anatomy, software proficiencyModeling, texturing, topology
Work EnvironmentAnimation studios, game development, VFXDesign studios, game studios, VFX
CertificationsOften requires knowledge of rigging tools and softwareFocus on modeling and texturing skills

While both roles are essential in 3D production, 3D Character Rigging specializes in preparing characters for animation by creating movable skeletons, whereas 3D Modelers focus on creating the detailed 3D assets themselves. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job focus within the 3D industry.

How do I get into 3D character rigging?

To get into 3D character rigging, develop skills in 3D modeling and animation software such as Maya or Blender, and learn rigging techniques including skeletal structures and control systems. Building a strong portfolio with rigging projects and understanding anatomy and movement are essential for entry-level positions in the field.
What are the most commonly searched types of 3D Character Rigging jobs in Seattle, WA? The most popular types of 3D Character Rigging jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to 3D Character Rigging jobs in Seattle, WA? For 3D Character Rigging jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching 3D Character Rigging jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for 3D Character Rigging jobs in Seattle, WA are:
Infographic showing various 3D Character Rigging job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 56% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 9% Temporary. Highlights an 77% In-person, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,157 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Adjunct Faculty - Animation and Production (Evergreen)

DigiPen Institute of Technology

Redmond, WA • On-site

$3.8K - $10K/wk

Part-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Animation and Production Department (Evergreen) Adjunct
Located in Redmond, Washington, DigiPen Institute of Technology is a small college that offers undergraduate degree programs in Computer Science, Game Design, Digital Audio and Music, Computer Engineering, and Digital Art and Animation, as well as Master's degree programs in Computer Science and Digital Art. DigiPen Institute of Technology has been ranked one of the top 5 game design schools in the country by the Princeton Review for more than a decade.
To learn more, visit: https://www.digipen.edu/ .
Position: Adjunct Faculty - Animation and Production Department
Reports to: Animation and Production Department Chair
The Animation and Production Department at DigiPen Institute of Technology invites applicants for potential future positions of Adjunct Faculty - Animation and Production Instructor. Join our faculty team and help students develop the necessary skills to succeed in their chosen fields.
Animation and Production courses cover the history, methods, and specialized topics in the field of animation in game and film production. From character rigging to cinematography, students both learn and practice how to tell compelling stories through the magic of moving images. Comprising of talented and creative traditional and CG animators, and filmmakers from the game and film industry, our diverse department faculty bring a deep well of knowledge and industry experience to the classroom.
After completing the application process, you may be invited to participate in the interview process. If accepted, you will be added to our pool of pre-approved adjuncts. The Animation and Production Department hires adjunct faculty from the pool of pre-approved adjuncts each semester on an as-needed basis.
The Animation and Production Department is accepting applications for adjunct instructors for courses in:
  • Animation Fundamentals
  • 3D Character Animation
  • 3D Character Rigging
  • Film and Animation History
  • Other specialized courses in animation and film as needed

This is an ongoing posting. For more information about DigiPen's offerings, visit:
Current Courses | DigiPen
Essential Functions/Duties
  • Teach courses in accordance with departmental policies and procedures
  • Prepare and submit (on Moodle) timely grade reports and other reports on student performance
  • Organize class activities, demos, and assignments and assignments to meet learning outcomes
  • Manage Student Teaching Assistants, if required; supervising their timecards and reviewing their weekly hours
  • Provide input, create, and improve course materials
  • Offer weekly office hours
  • In-person teaching, with online classes when necessary, in Redmond, WA

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Extensive knowledge of the subject areas in which the individual is responsible for instruction
  • Knowledge and understanding of principles of curriculum development
  • Knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of effective communication and of effective instruction
  • Specialized knowledge in Fine and Applied Art such as: Art, Illustration and/or Visual Development, etc.
  • Skills in Word, PowerPoint, Moodle, and MS Teams

Qualifications / Competencies
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Animation or related field
  • Relevant academic experience and/or four years of relevant industry experience
  • Demonstrate evidence of teaching experience that supports a diverse student body and individuals from a variety of backgrounds and experiences
  • Team player with ability to solve problems independently
  • Solid grounding in interdisciplinary teaching
  • Excellent interpersonal communication skills
  • Comfortable with technology
  • Ability to accommodate a wide variety of learning styles, special needs, etc.

Salary Range:
$3,888 - $10,887 per term, depending on credit hours, class size, and faculty rank
Not benefits eligible.
Application Procedure:
Applications should include, or you will be asked to provide, the following:
  • A cover letter
  • Current curriculum vitae / résumé
  • Digital Art portfolio website
  • Academic Transcripts of most recently attended educational institutions
  • Statement of teaching philosophy
  • Statement of experience on maximizing quality and engagement across broad subjects and perspectives

Upon accepting an offer of employment with us, the candidate will receive an invitation for a required background check, employment verification, and 5-panel drug screen as a part of the hiring process.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Complete application files will be accepted on a continuous basis and remain active for one year. While we sincerely appreciate all applications, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
Additional Notes:
  • All Adjunct positions are part-time, temporary assignments (for no more than one semester at a time), dependent upon student enrollment and instructional needs, and subject to budget consideration and approval. DigiPen Institute of Technology reserves the right to extend application deadlines and/or not to offer advertised positions.

Equal opportunity is a priority of DigiPen Institute of Technology, as the institution is committed to fostering a positive learning environment for all.
The Institute's intent is to hire the most qualified individuals for faculty and staff, attracting candidates from diverse backgrounds of race and ethnicity, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, socioeconomic status, veteran status, nationality, culture, religion, and physical abilities. We are committed to broadening our candidate pool to include more diverse individuals and ensuring fairness in hiring by avoiding bias and determining criteria to judge all candidates prior to posting each new position.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.