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3D Rigger Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Experience working across the full 3D pipeline: modeling, texturing/shading, lighting, rigging, animation, rendering, and compositing * Proficiency with tools such as Unreal Engine, Blender, Maya ...

3D Artist

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

$50 - $80/hr

Title: 3D Artist Location: Remote US Duration: 8 months + Extensions Compensation: $50-80/hr Work ... Basic Rigging: * Set up simple skeletons and controls for hard surface assets to enable basic ...

3D Artist

Dallas, TX · On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

Rigging * Animation * Editing Requirements: * 3-5 years in 3D design and animation * Proficiencies in: * Maya * Redshift * Adobe Photoshop * Adobe After Effects * Adobe Premiere Pro Extra points if ...

3D Artist

Dallas, TX · On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

Rigging * Animation * Editing Requirements: * 3-5 years in 3D design and animation * Proficiencies in: * Maya * Redshift * Adobe Photoshop * Adobe After Effects * Adobe Premiere Pro Extra points if ...

Experience working across the full 3D pipeline: modeling, texturing/shading, lighting, rigging, animation, rendering, and compositing * Proficiency with tools such as Unreal Engine, Blender, Maya ...

3D Modeler

Orlando, FL

$69K - $125K/yr

A 3D Modeler creates accurate three-dimensional representations of objects to support virtual ... basic rigging Experience constructing modular kits and utilizing trim sheets Preferred ...

3D Modeler

Orlando, FL · On-site

$57K - $104K/yr

A 3D Modeler creates accurate three-dimensional representations of objects to support virtual ... basic rigging • Experience constructing modular kits and utilizing trim sheets Preferred ...

3D Modeler

Orlando, FL

$57K - $104K/yr

A 3D Modeler creates accurate three-dimensional representations of objects to support virtual ... basic rigging Experience constructing modular kits and utilizing trim sheets Preferred ...

3D Modeler

Orlando, FL · On-site

$69K - $125K/yr

A 3D Modeler creates accurate three-dimensional representations of objects to support virtual ... basic rigging • Experience constructing modular kits and utilizing trim sheets Preferred ...

Rigging and Skinning Experience with 3D Creatures is not required, but is certainly helpful. Communication is key to a smooth and efficient pipeline. You must be able to communicate clearly and ...

3D Modeler

Kissimmee, FL · On-site

$57K - $104K/yr

A 3D Modeler creates accurate three-dimensional representations of objects to support virtual ... basic rigging • Experience constructing modular kits and utilizing trim sheets Preferred ...

3D Modeler

Orlando, FL · On-site

$57K - $104K/yr

A 3D Modeler creates accurate three-dimensional representations of objects to support virtual ... basic rigging • Experience constructing modular kits and utilizing trim sheets Preferred ...

3D Modeler

Winter Garden, FL · On-site

$57K - $104K/yr

A 3D Modeler creates accurate three-dimensional representations of objects to support virtual ... basic rigging • Experience constructing modular kits and utilizing trim sheets Preferred ...

The 3D Animation Lead role involves managing and guiding a team of animators on a show, acting as ... An understanding of rigs and typical rigging set-ups, animation pipelines and transferring data ...

3D Artist

San Rafael, CA · On-site

$37 - $56/hr

What We Need We are looking for an exceptionally skilled 3D Character Artist to join us and process ... The ideal candidate has strong foundational art skills, as well as experience with rigging ...

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 ...

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3D Rigger information

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How much do 3d rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for 3d 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 are some common challenges 3D Riggers face when working on animated projects?

3D Riggers often encounter challenges such as creating rigs that are both flexible and stable enough to handle a wide range of character movements without deformation or technical issues. Balancing the needs of animators for control and simplicity, while ensuring the rig performs efficiently in production, can be demanding. Additionally, adapting rigs for different software pipelines and collaborating closely with modelers and animators to troubleshoot problems are frequent parts of the job. Overcoming these challenges requires strong technical skills, creativity, and effective communication within the team.

What 3D job pays the most?

Among 3D-related roles, senior 3D artists, technical directors, and 3D supervisors tend to have the highest salaries, especially in industries like film, gaming, and visual effects. These positions often require advanced skills, extensive experience, and proficiency with tools like Maya, Blender, or Houdini, and can offer six-figure compensation in major markets.

How to become a 3D rigger?

To become a 3D rigger, you should develop skills in 3D modeling, animation, and rigging using software like Maya, Blender, or 3ds Max. Gaining a strong understanding of anatomy, weight painting, and scripting can improve your effectiveness, and building a portfolio of rigging projects is essential for job applications.

What does a 3D rigger do?

A 3D rigger creates the skeletal structures and control systems needed to animate 3D models in animation, gaming, or film production. They set up rigs using software like Maya or Blender, ensuring models can move naturally and efficiently. Strong knowledge of anatomy, rigging tools, and scripting is essential for this role.

What is the highest paying rigger job?

The highest paying rigger jobs are typically in the oil and gas, aerospace, or heavy construction industries, where specialized skills and certifications are required. Senior riggers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in complex lifting operations can earn higher salaries, often exceeding six figures annually. Location, industry demand, and project complexity significantly influence compensation for riggers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 3D Rigger, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 3D Rigger, you need a strong understanding of anatomy, movement, and 3D modeling principles, often supported by a degree in animation, computer graphics, or a related field. Proficiency with industry-standard tools like Autodesk Maya, Blender, and scripting languages such as Python or MEL is typically required. Excellent problem-solving, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help in collaborating with animators and technical artists. These skills ensure the creation of efficient, realistic rigs that enable smooth animation and enhance overall production quality.

What are 3D Riggers?

3D Riggers are professionals in the animation, film, and gaming industries who create digital skeletons for 3D models. Their work involves designing and building the underlying structures that allow 3D characters or objects to move realistically when animated. Riggers use specialized software to set up controls and deformers, enabling animators to pose and animate models efficiently. Their expertise ensures that characters can express a wide range of movements and emotions, which is essential for believable animation.
More about 3D Rigger jobs
What cities are hiring for 3D Rigger jobs? Cities with the most 3D Rigger job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of 3D Rigger jobs? The most popular types of 3D Rigger jobs are:
What states have the most 3D Rigger jobs? States with the most job openings for 3D Rigger jobs include:
Infographic showing various 3D Rigger job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $54,114 per year, or $26 per hour.
3D Animator

3D Animator

M&S Consulting

Pasadena, CA • On-site, Remote

Part-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

M&S (which stands for Management and Solutions) was conceived in 2002 with the vision of creating highly effective teams of elite consultants to deliver strategic process and technology solutions to enterprise organizations across the US. Our commitment to delivery in complex environments and long-term customer success has merged process and technology into innovative solutions, established deep pockets of expertise, and enabled innovative transformation for evolving businesses.
We have intentionally cultivated steady growth focused on being approachable and helpful to our dearly valued clients and closely cared-for employees. M&S people simply "care hard", and this reflects in our work products, our interactions, and our culture.
Job Responsibilities:
The 3D Animator will create high-fidelity, cinematic animations that communicate complex scientific and technical concepts through compelling visual storytelling. This role is ideal for a senior-leaning animator/generalist who enjoys working across the full 3D pipeline-from modeling through final render-and translating real-world data, engineering concepts, and mission narratives into visually engaging content.
  • Create cinematic 3D animations from pre-visualization or animatics through final render
  • Model, texture, shade, and light assets for high-quality scientific and technical visualization
  • Rig and animate mechanical systems, spacecraft, instruments, and robotic processes
  • Develop environments and planetary visualizations to support mission storytelling
  • Render and composite final sequences for video deliverables
  • Collaborate with creative directors, producers, and technical experts to ensure scientific accuracy
  • Translate complex engineering or scientific concepts into clear visual narratives
  • Iterate efficiently based on creative and technical feedback

Required Skills:
  • Strong portfolio demonstrating cinematic 3D animation and visualization work
  • Experience working across the full 3D pipeline: modeling, texturing/shading, lighting, rigging, animation, rendering, and compositing
  • Proficiency with tools such as Unreal Engine, Blender, Maya, and/or After Effects
  • Ability to produce high-quality animations both independently and within collaborative pipelines
  • Strong sense of motion, timing, lighting, and cinematic composition
  • Comfort working from storyboards, pre-vis, or animatics to final delivery

Desired Skills:
  • Experience working with CAD files and converting them into production-ready 3D assets
  • Background animating mechanical systems, robotics, or engineering processes
  • Experience creating space, planetary, or scientific visualizations
  • Familiarity with real-time rendering workflows (e.g., Unreal Engine pipelines)
  • Experience collaborating with scientists, engineers, or technical subject-matter experts

*Must be a US Citizen or Permanent Resident
*This is a remote position
*M&S Consulting proactively fulfills its role as an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, national origin, marital status, physical or mental disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.