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Animation Rigger Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Flying Bark Productions

3D Animation Lead

Denver, NC · On-site +1

An understanding of rigs and typical rigging set-ups, animation pipelines and transferring data between tools * The proven ability to work under pressure * Being open to direction and able to embrace ...

Flying Bark Productions

3D Animation Lead

Denver, NC · On-site

An understanding of rigs and typical rigging set-ups, animation pipelines and transferring data between tools * The proven ability to work under pressure * Being open to direction and able to embrace ...

Red Games Co.

Freelance Animator

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

Experience with VFX animation (particles, effects, etc.). * Basic knowledge of rigging and skinning characters. * 3D modeling or texturing experience. * Scripting experience (C#, Python, or visual ...

Red Games Co.

Freelance Animator

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

Experience with VFX animation (particles, effects, etc.). * Basic knowledge of rigging and skinning characters. * 3D modeling or texturing experience. * Scripting experience (C#, Python, or visual ...

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Animation Rigger information

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$14

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$36

How much do animation rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for animation 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 highest paying rigger job?

The highest paying rigger jobs are typically in the film, television, and video game industries, especially for senior or lead riggers with extensive experience and specialized skills in character rigging and animation. Senior riggers working on major projects or for large studios can earn six-figure salaries, often supplemented by bonuses and benefits. Advanced knowledge of rigging software like Maya or Blender and certifications can also contribute to higher compensation.

How much do riggers make in animation?

Animation riggers typically earn between $50,000 and $85,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Skilled riggers proficient in tools like Maya or Blender and with a strong portfolio tend to earn higher salaries.

What does a rigger do in animation?

An animation rigger creates the skeletal structures and control systems that allow characters and objects to move realistically. They use specialized software to build rigs, which animators then manipulate to produce motion, ensuring proper deformation and functionality. Riggers often collaborate with animators and modelers and may need knowledge of scripting and rigging tools like Maya or Blender.

What does an Animation Rigger do?

An Animation Rigger creates the skeletal structures that animators use to bring characters and objects to life in movies, games, and other media. They design and implement control systems for movement, ensuring realistic and flexible animation. Riggers work closely with animators, modelers, and technical artists to ensure characters move naturally and efficiently. They use software like Maya, Blender, or Houdini to build rigs that allow animators to manipulate models with ease.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Animation Rigger position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animation Rigger, you need strong knowledge of anatomy, movement, and 3D animation fundamentals, often backed by a degree in animation, computer graphics, or a related field. Expertise in industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya or Blender, and familiarity with scripting languages like Python or MEL, are typically important; some studios may value certifications in these tools. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication enable collaboration with animators and modelers to deliver high-quality rigs. These competencies help ensure that digital characters move realistically and that production pipelines run efficiently.

How to become an animation rigger?

To become an animation rigger, you typically need a background in animation, 3D modeling, or computer graphics, often gained through a relevant degree or courses. Developing skills in rigging tools like Maya or Blender and understanding character anatomy and movement are essential. Building a portfolio of rigging projects and gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions can help establish a career in this field.

What are some typical day-to-day responsibilities of an Animation Rigger?

As an Animation Rigger, your daily tasks include designing, building, and testing control rigs for characters and props to ensure they perform well during animation. You'll work closely with modelers and animators to address rigging needs and respond to feedback to revise or troubleshoot rigs as needed. Setting up skinning, deformation systems, and automation scripts is also common, which helps streamline repetitive tasks and improve workflow. The role requires both technical and creative collaboration, making flexibility and communication essential for meeting production goals and maintaining high-quality animation standards.

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Animation Rigger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animation Rigger job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 68% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 28% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,114 per year, or $26 per hour.

3D Animation Lead

Flying Bark Productions

Denver, NC • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Flying Bark Productions is a dynamic and innovative animation studio dedicated to pushing the boundaries of character animation and storytelling. We are working on exciting projects such as Avatar: The Last Airbender feature film, Netflix's Ghostbusters animated series and Stranger Things animated series as well as upcoming feature film, Zac Power.


The 3D Animation Lead role involves managing and guiding a team of animators on a show, acting as the main contact between production and supervisors, and ensuring smooth communication and workflow. This role requires strong leadership skills, technical knowledge of animation tools (especially Maya), and the ability to solve creative and technical challenges while meeting deadlines. The lead also coaches junior artists, collaborates with other departments, and supports production needs to maintain high-quality animation output.


About the role:

  • Lead a team of animators on a show
  • Be the key contact for production and supervisor/s. Maintain clear communication, deal with creative challenges, provide solutions and adapt to changes in production & scheduling
  • Set and manage team assignments in collaboration with the animation supervisor
  • Have a good understanding of the animation tasks the team will be working on and the potential technical and creative challenges involved
  • Be prepared to deputise for the animation supervisor if necessary
  • Be aware of workflow templates, methodology and documentation; provide to the team where necessary
  • Work with technology teams to ensure that department tools are available for the team and properly set up for the show
  • Inform supervisors and Head of Department (HOD) of any advances made on a project for integration into other shows
  • May be required to work with HOD and supervisors on bids when requested
  • Effectively manage team to avoid potential conflict or disagreement
  • Maintain positive relationships with all other departments and address any issues promptly
  • Attend dailies and present the work of your team; guide artists on how to present their work
  • Coach, share knowledge and assume some responsibility for the progression of more junior members of the team
  • Provide regular feedback to the team to ensure that work is always delivered on time to the highest possible standard
  • Work with the technical animators to ensure that show wikis are kept up to date


About you:

  • Previous experience mentoring or leading a team
  • Thorough knowledge of Maya
  • An understanding of physical motion, weight, balance, texture and form
  • An understanding of rigs and typical rigging set-ups, animation pipelines and transferring data between tools
  • The proven ability to work under pressure
  • Being open to direction and able to embrace change
  • Attention to detail
  • Reliable, with good time keeping and the ability to meet deadlines
  • Excellent organisation, communication and interpersonal skills
  • A demonstrable commitment to creative collaboration within a team and with other departments
  • Adaptability and the willingness to learn new processes and technical skills
  • Working knowledge of modelling, rigging and Mel/Python scripting
  • Knowledge of human and animal anatomy as well as life drawing skills


What do we do?

Flying Bark Productions is a renowned independent producer of family-focused animation entertainment. For over 50 years, our 2D and 3D production facility hascreated award-winning feature films and TV series.


Why work with us?

  • We work on some pretty cool projects - check out our website: https://www.flyingbark.com.au/
  • We love dogs and you will often see some of our regular fluffy companions in the studio.
  • We have a hybrid approach to work. For this particular position, full remote could be an option.
  • Career development is important to us so we offer training and support opportunities whenever possible.
  • Our employees say our culture is the best they've ever experienced - everyone is welcome and celebrated!


Flying Bark Productions is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Apply