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3D Rigger Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AST SpaceMobile

Rigging/Lifting Manager

Midland, TX · On-site

NCCCO Certified Rigger (CR) preferred. * Signalperson or Lift Director certifications a plus ... Ability to read and interpret digital drawings, 3D models, and lift-planning software * Experience ...

AST SpaceMobile

Rigging/Lifting Manager

Midland, TX · On-site

NCCCO Certified Rigger (CR) preferred. * Signalperson or Lift Director certifications a plus ... Ability to read and interpret digital drawings, 3D models, and lift-planning software * Experience ...

Side

3D Character Artist - Talent Pool (N Americas)

$123K - $130K/yr

As a 3D Character Artist , you will play a key role in crafting high-quality characters that bring ... Ensure proper topology, rigging, and skinning for characters to meet animation and gameplay ...

Side

$112K - $117K/yr

As a 3D Character Artist, you will play a key role in crafting high-quality characters that bring ... Ensure proper topology, rigging, and skinning for characters to meet animation and gameplay ...

Barnhart Crane & Rigging

Senior Project Engineer

Memphis, TN · On-site

$88K - $115K/yr

This requires an in-depth understanding of various cranes, hoists, rigging equipment, and their specific applications. Proficiency with CAD, 3D modeling software, and industry-specific tools such as ...

Barnhart Crane & Rigging

Senior Project Engineer

Memphis, TN · On-site

$96K - $125K/yr

This requires an in-depth understanding of various cranes, hoists, rigging equipment, and their specific applications. Proficiency with CAD, 3D modeling software, and industry-specific tools such as ...

Barnhart Crane & Rigging

Branch Engineer

Mobile, AL · On-site

$81K - $109K/yr

This requires an in-depth understanding of various cranes, hoists, rigging equipment, and their specific applications. Proficiency with CAD, 3D modeling software, and industry-specific tools such as ...

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How much do 3d rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 4, 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 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 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 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.

How much do 3d riggers get paid?

3D riggers typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled riggers proficient in tools like Maya or Blender and with a strong portfolio can command higher salaries, especially in competitive markets.
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3D Rigger jobs near you
Infographic showing various 3D Rigger job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% Locum Tenens, 10% Internship, 1% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 14% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,114 per year, or $26 per hour.
Senior Design Engineer

Senior Design Engineer

Barnhart Crane & Rigging

Memphis, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Barnhart rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

120th of 140 rated vehicle equipment hire

Job description

Job Summary:
A Senior Design Engineer is responsible for overseeing the design and development of custom rigging equipment and structural systems tailored to the specific needs of a project. They lead the planning, design, and implementation of new equipment while making sure each design satisfies the needs of the project, adheres to relevant safety standards, and meets required deliverables. The role involves working closely with project and production managers, as well as field experts. The Senior Design Engineer position also involves mentoring junior engineers, contributing to continuous improvement efforts, and driving innovative solutions that enhance operational efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness in crane and rigging design projects.
Job Requirements:
  • Experience: 5+ years of experience in structural or mechanical equipment design, preferably within the crane, rigging, or heavy lift/transport industry.
  • Certifications: Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred, OSHA 10
  • Technical Proficiency: Must possess an in-depth understanding of engineering principles related to structural steel design, cranes, rigging, and load calculations. Extensive experience with steel construction and fabrication processes preferred. Proficiency with CAD, 3D modeling software, and industry-specific tools such as AutoCAD, Inventor, or similar programs is essential. Familiarity with the types of cranes, rigging equipment, and materials used in lifting and transporting heavy loads is also important. Finally, strong knowledge of relevant design standards and regulations, including OSHA, AISC, ASME, ANSI, and others specific to designing structural steel and rigging equipment, is necessary to maintain compliance and uphold industry best practices.
  • Software Proficiency: Competency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) for documentation and reporting. Proficiency with computer-aided design (CAD) software (AutoCAD/Inventor) and calculation software (RISA 3D/Ansys/Mathcad) is required.
  • Problem-Solving and Analytical Expertise: Ability to analyze and optimize structural steel and mechanical designs. Ability to adapt to changing project requirements and work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Strong desire to teach and develop technical expertise in junior engineers.
  • Communication: Strong communication skills for reporting, documentation, and communicating with clients or team members. Ability to work effectively as part of a team, collaborating with crane operators, riggers, engineers, and project managers. Ability to accurately document and review design packages and incorporate changes when necessary.
  • Project Management Skills: Strong organizational and time management skills to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines. Ability to develop and update project schedules to ensure timely completion. Ability to estimate cost for design projects and fabrication. Ability and willingness to lead a team of junior engineers by fielding questions and reviewing their work.
  • Physical Requirements: Willingness and ability to visit job sites regularly and work in outdoor and potentially hazardous environments, which may involve standing, walking, crawling, climbing ladders or scaffolding, and lifting moderate weights.
  • Fit for Duty: Must pass a drug test, fit for duty and background check.

Job Responsibilities:
  • Create detailed design packages, including fabrication drawings, calculations, specification sheets, operation manuals, test certificates, etc.
  • Perform steel design and structural analysis tasks.
  • Understand industry regulations and standards (AISC, ASME, OSHA) and help ensure designs are in accordance.
  • Develop and review design parameters for engineering clarity and customer communication.
  • Create 3D models and technical drawings for equipment assemblies.
  • Prepare technical specifications, operating instructions, and maintenance requirements for newly designed equipment.
  • Create and review calculation packages that analyze relevant load cases to accurately support equipment design.
  • Develop and review mockup and load test plans and participate in the setup and execution of the tests.
  • Obtain working knowledge of existing Barnhart heavy lift and specialty rigging equipment.
  • Identify materials and communicate with the fabrication shop on schedule and design optimization.
  • Track project timelines and progress reports of a team of junior engineers.
  • Estimate and review the cost of design, fabrication, and testing for various design projects.
  • Provide on-site technical assistance during lifting and rigging operations to ensure lift plans are followed correctly.
  • Identify and manage operational risk in line with industry regulations.
  • Help ensure that equipment is maintained and in safe working condition and report any defects or issues.
  • Work alongside field personnel such as crane operators, riggers, and fabricators to support day-to-day project operations.
  • Communicate with clients and project managers to clarify requirements and relay project status updates.
  • Support the procurement of necessary materials and equipment by liaising with suppliers and subcontractors.
  • Record any changes to the design package, project scope, or schedule, ensuring all updates are properly documented.
  • Identify minor technical issues on-site and work with senior engineers to resolve them.
  • Participate in post-project reviews, helping to gather feedback and data for future designs.
  • Continuously learn and stay updated on the latest industry practices, safety regulations, and engineering standards.
  • Aid in the development of technical skills of junior engineers related to crane operations, rigging, and engineering design.
  • Support in the professional development of junior engineers.

Compensation and Benefits:
  • Competitive salary
  • Bonus program that pays for performance
  • 401K contributions matched up to 10% of pay
  • Benefits Package including medical, dental, vision, short & long-term disability
  • Paid Time Off
  • Barnhart CARES family care and community service opportunities.

Education:
• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field from an ABET accredited 4-year university.
PURPOSE - Barnhart is built on a strong foundation of serving others. The fruit of our labor is used to grow the company, care for our employees, and serve those in our communities and around the world.
MINDS OVER MATTER - Barnhart has built a nationwide reputation for solving problems. We specialize in the lifting, heavy-rigging, and heavy transport of major components used in American industry.
NETWORK - Barnhart has built teams that form one of our industry's strongest network of talent and resources with over 60 branch locations across the U.S. working together to serve our customers. This growing network offers our team members constant opportunity for career growth and professional development.
CULTURE - Barnhart has a strong team culture -- the "One TEAM." We are looking for smart, hard-working people who strive for excellence in their work and appreciate collaboration. Join a team that values Safety, Servant Leadership, Quality Service, Innovation, Continuous Improvement, Fairness, and Profit with a Purpose.
EOE/AA Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran

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