ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Animation Rigging Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Believe In Me

Animator

Spokane, WA · On-site

An understanding of aspect dynamics, animation rigging/set-up, and character animation * Knowledge of the software and hardware used in the post-production process * Understanding of the Visual ...

Epic Games

Cinematics Animation Director

Cary, NC · On-site

You'll take animation from initial concept through implementation using our animation system in ... Understanding of modeling, skinning, and rigging. * Hands-on experience with tools like Meshcapade ...

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 ...

Netflix

$117.50K - $140.70K/yr

Build and support tools and scripts (e.g., Python, MEL, Unreal tooling) that speed up rigging, export, validation, and integration. * Author or source animation-focused tools and plug-ins as needed ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsAnimation Rigging Jobs

Animation Rigging information

See salary details

$14

$26

$36

How much do animation rigging jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for animation rigging 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 an Animation Rigging job?

An Animation Rigging job involves creating the digital skeletons that allow characters and objects to move in animation and video games. Rigging artists design and implement the control systems, including joints, bones, and deformers, that animators use to bring models to life. They work closely with modelers and animators to ensure smooth movement and realistic deformations. Strong technical skills in 3D software and scripting are often required for this role.

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

To thrive in Animation Rigging, you need a solid understanding of anatomy, movement, and 3D animation principles, usually supported by experience in computer graphics or related fields. Proficiency with industry-standard software like Autodesk Maya, Blender, or 3ds Max, as well as scripting languages such as Python or MEL, is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and clear communication help riggers effectively integrate with animators and technical artists. These competencies are crucial for building flexible, efficient rigs that enable high-quality animation and seamless production workflows.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an Animation Rigging artist?

Animation Rigging artists spend their days designing and building digital skeletons and control systems that allow animators to create lifelike movement for characters and objects. You may work closely with modelers and animators to ensure rigs are user-friendly and optimized for the production pipeline, regularly troubleshooting or refining rigs based on animation feedback. Collaboration is a big part of the job, as you often interact with technical artists, animators, and supervisors to maintain the quality and efficiency of the rigging process. The role can involve balancing technical tasks with creative problem-solving, making it both challenging and rewarding for those passionate about animation.

How much do animation rigging people make?

Animation rigging artists typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level riggers may start lower, while experienced professionals working on high-profile projects or in major studios can earn higher salaries. Skills in software like Maya or Blender and a strong portfolio can influence earning potential.
More about Animation Rigging jobs
What cities are hiring for Animation Rigging jobs? Cities with the most Animation Rigging job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Animation Rigging jobs? The most popular types of Animation Rigging jobs are:
What states have the most Animation Rigging jobs? States with the most job openings for Animation Rigging jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Animation Rigging jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Animation Rigging jobs are:
Animation Rigging jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animation Rigging job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 70% In-person, and 30% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,114 per year, or $26 per hour.
Assistant Professor of Practice - Emerging Media Arts: Animation

Assistant Professor of Practice - Emerging Media Arts: Animation

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Lincoln, NE • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Position Information
Position Information
Working Title
Assistant Professor of Practice - Emerging Media Arts: Animation
Department
Johnny Carson School-Theatre & Film-1033
Requisition Number
F_250088
Posting Open Date
12/11/2025
Application Review Date: (To ensure consideration, please submit all application materials before review date)
03/02/2026
Posting Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Description of Work
Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln invites applications for an Assistant Professor of Practice - Emerging Media Arts: Animation and Rigging to join our unique program.
We seek a creative individual with strong dedication to craft, technical expertise, and professional agility in a constantly changing field. We welcome applicants with backgrounds in film, television, game production, or gallery/museum installations. The successful candidate will have advanced experience in 3D animation workflows (film, television, games) and/or rigging, ideally with supplemental familiarity with game engines, and/or motion capture, and be able to creatively integrate traditional techniques with emerging technologies and platforms.
This position involves teaching courses in 3D Animation, Rigging, Motion Capture, and Game Engines. The ideal candidate will be a dynamic artist/teacher who is committed to training and inspiring the next generation of emerging media artists and storytellers.
The Johnny Carson Center for Emerging Media Arts is an interdisciplinary center and creative research facility within the Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film, established with a $57M investment from the Johnny Carson Foundation. Research areas include filmmaking, interactive and immersive storytelling, experience and generative design, XR, machine learning, sonic and data arts, virtual production, and innovation and entrepreneurship.
The Carson Center brings together world-class faculty and students to reimagine the future of media through inclusive, imaginative storytelling that addresses human-scale challenges, provokes and inspires. As the Center expands its international reach and collaborations, this is a unique opportunity to shape its growing mission.
Nebraska offers an attractive compensation and benefits package, commensurate with the successful candidate's background and experience. Faculty status with opportunities for promotion in rank and sabbatical opportunities for continued learning and professional development are additional key benefits. This position comes with resources to support innovative teaching and creative practice.
Key Responsibilities
  • Teach courses in 3D Animation, Rigging, Introduction to Game Engines, Motion Capture for Real-time Performance, and others as needed.
  • Collaborate with faculty to develop new courses and curriculum with a focus towards interdisciplinarity.
  • Provide mentorship to students.
  • Recruit artist/industry partners and assist students transitioning into their careers.
  • Remain agile and keep current with advancements in 3D animation, rigging, motion capture, game engine technologies, AI, and creative applications.

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment. See https://equity.unl.edu/notice-nondiscrimination/.
Minimum Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree with at least five years of professional experience in 3D animation and/or rigging for film, television, games, or live performance workflows.
  • Working career as an animator/artist represented through a body of work that has received theatrical, network, or streaming exhibition and/or national/international festival recognition.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree in an equivalent arts-related field; OR in exceptional cases, significant professional credentials and experience in lieu of a terminal degree.
  • Experience with game engines (Unity or Unreal) or other real-time performance systems.
  • Experience in custom rigging for 3D animation and/or games.
  • Experience with emerging forms of digital animation workflows, including AI and Machine Learning.
  • Proficiencies in languages such as MEL (PyMEL), Python, C++, or C#.
  • University teaching experience above the teaching assistant level; or equivalent experience in a non-university setting (Animation Mentor, Gnomon, VFS, etc.).
  • A strong network of contacts with other industry professionals and employers.
  • Demonstrated commitment to ongoing professional development and the ability to stay at the edge of industry developments.

Work Location (City, State)
Lincoln, NE
Pre-Placement Driving Record Review Required
Criminal History Background Check Required
No
Posted Salary
How to Apply
Click "Apply for this Job," complete the faculty information form, and submit the following required documents:
  1. A letter of interest addressing your qualifications specific to this job description.
  2. A current Curriculum Vitae.
  3. Teaching statement (1-2 pages). Attach as "Other Document."
  4. A link to an online portfolio of work.
  5. The names and contact details of three professional references.

For questions or accommodations related to this position contact
Shelby Foged
shelby.foged@unl.edu
Job Category
Job Category (old)
Faculty Non-Tenure Leading
Job Type
9 Month
Position funded by grant or other form of temporary funding?
No
If Temporary, indicate end date
Planned Hire Date
08/17/2026
Appointment End Date
Organizational Location
Default Location

Apply