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3D Character Rigging Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior 3D Technical Character Artist

Herndon, VA ยท On-site

$130K - $156K/yr

... 3D Technical Facial Character Artists to work across client projects on a full time basis on-site ... The ideal candidate should have experience in rigging, sculpting, python/mel, shading, texture ...

Senior 3D Technical Character Artist

Herndon, VA ยท On-site

$130K - $156K/yr

... 3D Technical Facial Character Artists to work across client projects on a full time basis on-site ... The ideal candidate should have experience in rigging, sculpting, python/mel, shading, texture ...

3D Animation Lead

Denver, NC ยท On-site +1

... of character animation and storytelling. We are working on exciting projects such as Avatar: The ... An understanding of rigs and typical rigging set-ups, animation pipelines and transferring data ...

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3D Character Rigging information

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

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for 3d character rigging in the United States is $19.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a character rigger?

To become a 3D character rigger, you should develop skills in 3D modeling, anatomy, and rigging software such as Maya or Blender. Gaining experience through tutorials, online courses, and creating a portfolio of rigging projects is essential; some professionals also pursue degrees in animation or related fields.

How much do character riggers get paid?

Character riggers typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level riggers may start at lower salaries, while experienced professionals with advanced skills in tools like Maya or Blender can command higher pay.

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.

What is the salary of a 3D character artist?

The salary of a 3D character artist varies depending on experience, location, and industry, but typically ranges from $50,000 to $100,000 annually. Entry-level artists may earn around $40,000, while experienced professionals with advanced skills in software like Maya or Blender can earn over $100,000 per year.

What is the highest paying rigger job?

The highest paying rigger jobs are typically senior or lead 3D character rigging positions in large studios or companies, often requiring extensive experience, advanced skills in rigging tools like Maya or Blender, and knowledge of complex character setups. These roles can offer salaries exceeding six figures, especially in the gaming, film, or animation industries. Specialized expertise and a strong portfolio are key to accessing top-tier rigging roles with higher compensation.
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What cities are hiring for 3D Character Rigging jobs? Cities with the most 3D Character Rigging job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of 3D Character Rigging jobs? The most popular types of 3D Character Rigging jobs are:
What states have the most 3D Character Rigging jobs? States with the most job openings for 3D Character Rigging jobs include:
What job categories do people searching 3D Character Rigging jobs look for? The top searched job categories for 3D Character Rigging jobs are:
Visual Effects Animation Artist

Visual Effects Animation Artist

Anatomage, Inc.

Santa Clara, CA โ€ข On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Who is Anatomage?
Founded in 2004, Anatomage is a world-leading health care technology company. Anatomage offers 3D software for anatomy and physiology education including a life-sized virtual dissection platform.
About the Role:
As a VFX and Animation Artist at Anatomage, you will be the driving creative force
behind our real-time simulations and visual effects. While this role requires a
well-rounded 3D generalist skillset including modeling, texturing, and lighting, your
primary focus will be crafting stunning visual effects and lifelike animations.
What You'll Do:
You will utilize your 3D generalist skills - spanning modeling, texturing, and lighting - to
create a variety of digital environments. Your main emphasis will be bringing these
environments to life by executing workflows across both real-time simulation and
character animation within Unreal Engine. You will utilize the Niagara system and
Houdini to create scientifically accurate special effects. You will also handle character
rigging and animation for MetaHumans. While you may have a stronger background or
personal specialization in one of these areas, you will be expected to actively deliver
results across both disciplines, ensuring all assets are technically optimized for our
interactive platforms.
Requirements
Skills and Abilities Required:
Candidates should have a strong 3D generalist foundation in industry-standard software such as Maya, Blender, or Substance Painter for modeling, texturing, and lighting environments. Alongside these generalist skills, candidates must possess deep, hands-on experience in either real-time VFX such as Niagara, Blueprints, Houdini simulation pipelines or advanced character rigging and animation fundamentals including experience with MetaHumans or a strong combination of both. The ideal candidate demonstrates strong organizational skills, artistic talent, and exceptional attention to detail.
* Resume and Portfolio required in order to be considered*
Minimum Education and Experience Required:
Formal education in Art, Digital Arts, 3D Modeling, Animation, Medical Illustration, or a related discipline is preferred. Equivalent professional experience and a strong portfolio demonstrating relevant skills will also be considered. Minimum 3 years of professional realtime VFX or Animation experience.
Benefits
What We Offer
  • Health, Dental, and Vision care for you and your family
  • 401K savings plan with employer matching
  • Generous PTO leave and paid holidays
  • Casual work culture
  • Commuter benefits
  • On site gym facility
  • Team bonding activities, catered lunches, and free snacks in the office!

About Anatomage
Anatomage has been financially robust and growing for 20 consecutive years.
Anatomage offers the world's first and only life-sized virtual dissection table. Students can learn anatomy and physiology using highly interactive and accurate real human-based digital data. Institutions can offer high quality education without worrying about chemicals, facility costs, and regulatory issues. Hundreds of schools have adopted the Anatomage Table as the main teaching tool for students.
At Anatomage, there is an opportunity to work alongside the best in the field. With a diverse group of people from various technical, clinical, and artistic backgrounds, Anatomage provides a culture where distinguished individuals can work and collaborate in an organic manner. Our team members all bring unique strengths and talents to their group and embrace each other's diverse perspectives. Anatomage offers a distinct work experience with an exceptional opportunity to develop careers. Our philosophy is to foster a dynamic work environment, and we are proud to let our employees' knowledge and responsibilities grow with the company.
In the U.S., the standard base pay range for this role is $80,000.00- $120,000.00 Annually. This base pay range is for the U.S. and is not applicable to locations outside of the U.S.. Actual amounts will vary depending on experience, performance and location. In addition to a competitive base pay, employees in this role may be eligible for incentive compensation. Incentive compensation is not guaranteed.
Anatomage is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not offer H1B Sponsorship at this time. Local candidates preferred.