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Animation Rigging Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Deep knowledge of 3DS Max modeling techniques, materials and texturing, lighting systems, animation, rigging, rendering with Arnold and V-Ray, particle systems, and scene management. Ability to ...

Deep knowledge of 3DS Max modeling techniques, materials and texturing, lighting systems, animation, rigging, rendering with Arnold and V-Ray, particle systems, and scene management. Ability to ...

Deep knowledge of 3DS Max modeling techniques, materials and texturing, lighting systems, animation, rigging, rendering with Arnold and V-Ray, particle systems, and scene management. Ability to ...

Deep knowledge of 3DS Max modeling techniques, materials and texturing, lighting systems, animation, rigging, rendering with Arnold and V-Ray, particle systems, and scene management. Ability to ...

Deep knowledge of 3DS Max modeling techniques, materials and texturing, lighting systems, animation, rigging, rendering with Arnold and V-Ray, particle systems, and scene management. Ability to ...

Deep knowledge of 3DS Max modeling techniques, materials and texturing, lighting systems, animation, rigging, rendering with Arnold and V-Ray, particle systems, and scene management. Ability to ...

Deep knowledge of 3DS Max modeling techniques, materials and texturing, lighting systems, animation, rigging, rendering with Arnold and V-Ray, particle systems, and scene management. Ability to ...

Deep knowledge of 3DS Max modeling techniques, materials and texturing, lighting systems, animation, rigging, rendering with Arnold and V-Ray, particle systems, and scene management. Ability to ...

Deep knowledge of 3DS Max modeling techniques, materials and texturing, lighting systems, animation, rigging, rendering with Arnold and V-Ray, particle systems, and scene management. Ability to ...

Deep knowledge of 3DS Max modeling techniques, materials and texturing, lighting systems, animation, rigging, rendering with Arnold and V-Ray, particle systems, and scene management. Ability to ...

Deep knowledge of 3DS Max modeling techniques, materials and texturing, lighting systems, animation, rigging, rendering with Arnold and V-Ray, particle systems, and scene management. Ability to ...

Deep knowledge of 3DS Max modeling techniques, materials and texturing, lighting systems, animation, rigging, rendering with Arnold and V-Ray, particle systems, and scene management. Ability to ...

Deep knowledge of 3DS Max modeling techniques, materials and texturing, lighting systems, animation, rigging, rendering with Arnold and V-Ray, particle systems, and scene management. Ability to ...

Deep knowledge of 3DS Max modeling techniques, materials and texturing, lighting systems, animation, rigging, rendering with Arnold and V-Ray, particle systems, and scene management. Ability to ...

Deep knowledge of 3DS Max modeling techniques, materials and texturing, lighting systems, animation, rigging, rendering with Arnold and V-Ray, particle systems, and scene management. Ability to ...

Deep knowledge of 3DS Max modeling techniques, materials and texturing, lighting systems, animation, rigging, rendering with Arnold and V-Ray, particle systems, and scene management. Ability to ...

Deep knowledge of 3DS Max modeling techniques, materials and texturing, lighting systems, animation, rigging, rendering with Arnold and V-Ray, particle systems, and scene management. Ability to ...

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Animation Rigging information

See New York salary details

$15

$28

$39

How much do animation rigging jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for animation rigging in New York is $28.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.24 and $32.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying rigger job?

The highest paying rigger jobs are typically senior or lead rigging positions in large animation or VFX studios, often requiring extensive experience, advanced skills in rigging tools like Maya or Houdini, and sometimes specialized knowledge in character or creature rigging. These roles can offer salaries significantly higher than entry-level positions, especially in regions with a strong entertainment industry presence or in freelance consulting for high-budget projects.

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 does an animation rigger do?

An animation rigger creates the skeletal structures and control systems that enable characters and objects to move realistically in animation and visual effects. They develop rigs using tools like Maya or Blender, ensuring that models can be animated efficiently and naturally. Rigging requires technical skills, knowledge of anatomy, and an understanding of animation 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 money do you make rigging?

Animation rigging professionals typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior riggers with specialized skills in tools like Maya or Blender and a strong portfolio can earn higher salaries, especially in larger studios or competitive markets.

How hard is rigging animation?

Rigging animation is a technical skill that requires understanding of 3D modeling, anatomy, and rigging tools such as Maya or Blender. It involves creating a digital skeleton and controls for characters or objects, which can be complex and time-consuming, especially for detailed or realistic rigs. Proficiency in scripting and problem-solving can also be beneficial for efficient rigging workflows.

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 most commonly searched types of Animation Rigging jobs in New York? The most popular types of Animation Rigging jobs in New York are:
What are popular job titles related to Animation Rigging jobs in New York? For Animation Rigging jobs in New York, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animation Rigging jobs in New York look for? The top searched job categories for Animation Rigging jobs in New York are:
What cities in New York are hiring for Animation Rigging jobs? Cities in New York with the most Animation Rigging job openings:
Infographic showing various Animation Rigging job openings in New York as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, and 24% Temporary. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,203 per year, or $28.5 per hour.
Animation & Storytelling Intern

Animation & Storytelling Intern

Safe Passage Project

New York, NY

Part-time

Posted 7 days ago


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