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Animation Rigging Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

COGSWELL COLLEGE LLC

Adjunct Faculty DAA

San Jose, CA · On-site

$3.0K - $4.5K/mo

... internships, and practice; instructional management, tutoring; curriculum and course development ... Experience working with Maya software for animation, modeling, rigging, or lighting of content in ...

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Animation Rigging Internship information

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$5

$16

$25

How much do animation rigging internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for animation rigging internship in the United States is $16.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Animation Rigging Internship vs Character Rigger?

AspectAnimation Rigging InternshipCharacter Rigger
Required CredentialsBasic knowledge of rigging, animation, and relevant softwareAdvanced rigging skills, certifications in 3D software
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, learning-focused, team collaborationFull-time professional role, specialized rigging tasks
Industry UsageEntry-level, training position in animation and game studiosMid to senior-level position, responsible for complex character rigs
Search & Comparison IntentLearning, entry-level opportunities, internshipsCareer advancement, specialized rigging roles

In summary, an Animation Rigging Internship is an entry-level position designed for learning and gaining experience in rigging within animation or game studios. A Character Rigger is a professional role requiring advanced skills, responsible for creating complex character rigs. The internship offers foundational exposure, while the character rigger role involves specialized expertise and greater responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Animation Rigging Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animation Rigging Intern, you need a solid understanding of 3D animation principles, basic rigging techniques, and familiarity with anatomy, often supported by coursework in animation or computer graphics. Proficiency with industry-standard software like Autodesk Maya, Blender, or 3ds Max, and some knowledge of scripting languages such as Python or MEL are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with animators and technical artists. These abilities are essential to create flexible, efficient rigs that support high-quality character animation and streamline production workflows.

What are some common challenges faced during an Animation Rigging Internship, and how can interns successfully overcome them?

Animation Rigging Interns often encounter challenges such as understanding complex character anatomies, adapting to different rigging software, and meeting tight production deadlines. Successfully overcoming these hurdles involves proactive communication with senior riggers, regularly seeking feedback, and taking advantage of training resources offered by the studio. Building a strong foundation in both technical and artistic aspects of rigging can also help interns contribute effectively to collaborative projects and accelerate their learning curve.

What is an Animation Rigging Internship?

An Animation Rigging Internship is a temporary position where students or recent graduates gain practical experience in creating and managing digital skeletons (rigs) that allow 3D models to move realistically in animation or video games. Interns typically work with professional animators and rigging artists, learning industry-standard software and techniques for character and object rigging. These internships help build a strong foundation for a career in animation, visual effects, or game development by providing hands-on experience and mentorship. Interns often collaborate closely with other departments, such as modeling and animation, to ensure rigs meet production needs and perform efficiently.
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Animation Rigging Internship jobs near you
Animation & Storytelling Intern

Animation & Storytelling Intern

Safe Passage Project

New York, NY

Part-time

Posted 14 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Create short character-animated videos that bring powerful stories to life.

  • Edit and prepare animations and video clips for use on social media, campaigns, and events.

  • Add branding elements and polish content to ensure consistency across platforms.

Job description

Location: New York, NY (Hybrid) | Applicants must be based in the New York City area.
Out-of-state applicants will not be considered.

Commitment: 10-15/hrs per week, unpaid (academic credit available)

About Safe Passage Project

Safe Passage Project provides free legal representation to immigrant children facing deportation. We believe every child deserves a fair chance to live safely with dignity and hope for the future.

Why This Internship?

Are you a student who loves bringing characters and stories to life through animation? Do you want to use your creativity to make a positive impact? At Safe Passage Project, you'll have the chance to create storytelling videos that highlight the resilience of immigrant youth and support a mission for justice. This internship gives you the opportunity to experiment with your craft, build a standout portfolio, and see your animations drive real campaigns

What You'll Do

Create short character-animated videos that bring powerful stories to life

Use character design, rigging, and animation techniques (2D or 3D) to develop compelling narratives

Edit and prepare animations and video clips for use on social media, campaigns, and events

Add branding elements and polish content to ensure consistency across platforms

Contribute your own creative ideas and artistic style while aligning with Safe Passage Project's brand guidelines

What We're Looking For

Current student or recent graduate in Animation, Media Arts, Film, or related field

Familiarity with animation software such as Adobe Animate, After Effects, Toon Boom Harmony, Blender, or similar tools

Passion for animation, design, and creative storytelling (coursework, personal projects, or a small portfolio is great, but professional experience is not required)

Creative problem-solver: self-starter who learns quickly, experiments boldly, and thrives when given creative freedom.

Detail-oriented, deadline-driven, and eager to grow as a designer and animator

What You'll Gain

A portfolio filled with real-world projects that showcase your design and animation skills

The chance to see your work used in campaigns that reach thousands of people

Creative freedom to shape projects, experiment with new ideas, and take the lead on animation projects from concept to final cut

Flexible schedule with the opportunity to earn academic credit and fit the role around your studies

How to Apply:

When applying, please include your resume (highlighting relevant coursework, projects, or experience) as well as a portfolio or reel (such as class projects, personal work, or other animation samples).

Employment Type: PART_TIME

Apply