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Animation Rigging Jobs in Ontario (NOW HIRING)

Guru Studio

3D Rigger: Paw Patrol

Toronto, ON · On-site

$1.4K - $1.7K/wk

An understanding of cartoon animation principles and how they apply to rigging * Minimally 5+ years' experience is required * Experience/knowledge of USD workflows is required * Ability to ...

Velan Studios

Gameplay Animator (Senior+/Lead)

Toronto, ON · On-site

CA$110K - CA$150K/yr

Generalist skills in modeling, rigging, or related areas. * A passion for game design and how animation supports player feedback, pacing, and readability * Experience with motion capture. * Basic ...

Velan Studios

Gameplay Animator (Senior+/Lead)

Toronto, ON · On-site

CA$110K - CA$150K/yr

Generalist skills in modeling, rigging, or related areas. * A passion for game design and how animation supports player feedback, pacing, and readability * Experience with motion capture. * Basic ...

All JobsAnimation Rigging JobsAnimation Rigging Jobs in Ontario

Animation Rigging information

See Ontario salary details

$11

$33

$72

How much do animation rigging jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for animation rigging in Ontario is $33.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $43.99 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 popular job titles related to Animation Rigging jobs in Ontario? For Animation Rigging jobs in Ontario, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animation Rigging jobs in Ontario look for? The top searched job categories for Animation Rigging jobs in Ontario are:
Animation Rigging jobs near you

3D Rigger: Paw Patrol

Guru Studio

Toronto, ON • On-site

$1.4K - $1.7K/wk

Contractor

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Are you ready to take the world's #1 smash hit animated series to the next level? The award-winning, action-packed and loved-by-every-child-on-Earth series PAW Patrol is entering its second decade of production, with BIG plans ahead!

Guru Studio is a creative-driven entertainment company and an industry leader in animated storytelling. For over twenty years, our studio has brought to life some of the most recognizable and beloved children's properties in the world.


We're looking for an experienced 3D Rigger to join the PAW Patrol production team.


Responsibilities:

  • Use and learn proprietary studio rigging pipeline and tools for characters and props
  • Rig characters and props that support the show's design aesthetic
  • Design control mechanisms that are simple and intuitive for animators
  • Work collaboratively with design, layout and animation leads to meet the needs of the production
  • Model / Transfer blend shapes for secondary characters
  • Stay on top of new tools and methods for rigging on an animated series
  • Make sure work is completed and delivered per schedule


Qualifications:

  • Intermediate Python knowledge is required
  • In depth knowledge of Maya rigging
  • Experience with modeling for rigging is an asset
  • Functional knowledge of shader networks and UV placement
  • An understanding of cartoon animation principles and how they apply to rigging
  • Minimally 5+ years' experience is required
  • Experience/knowledge of USD workflows is required
  • Ability to productively discuss, make decisions, and communicate ideas and work time estimates in a wide variety of technical areas


Why Join Guru?

  • We create a collaborative and creatively fulfilling work environment by promoting courage, purpose, inspiration, integrity, transparency, and empowerment as our core values
  • We take great pride in our work and we always ensure it reflects a high standard of quality and creativity
  • We encourage individuals to grow with us by offering learning opportunities that encourage skill development and growth
  • We are proud to support philanthropic initiatives that support our local and global community through our charity committee Guru Gives
  • We offer health and wellness support through an extensive benefits plan and extended mental health services and initiatives
  • We allow the flexibility to work remotely while making our downtown studio available for in-person team building and collaboration


Contract Duration:Fixed-term contract of approximately 22 weeks

Expected Compensation: $1400 - $1700 per week, depending on experience and role requirements

Vacancy Status: This job posting is for an actual current vacancy tied to a specific animation project


Guru is committed to providing an inclusive work environment that celebrates the diversity of its employees. We are dedicated to employment equity and welcome applications from people from all Indigenous groups, races, religions, genders and people with disabilities.

We are committed to providing an accessible candidate experience during our recruitment process and are committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible environment where candidates and employees feel valued and respected. Guru strives to respect the dignity and independence of people with disabilities and is committed to giving them the same opportunity to succeed in the recruitment process as all other candidates. If you have a disability, you may request to be accommodated at any time. Guru will work with all candidates to accommodate individual accessibility needs to the point of undue hardship.

Guru Studio would like to thank all applicants for your interest, however only those who qualify for an interview will be contacted.


Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. Guru Studio is an equal opportunity employer.


This is a Hybrid/In-Studio role open only to Ontario residents who can travel to the Greater Toronto Area for studio work.

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