1

Animation Rigging Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor

Chicago, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

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 ...

Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor

Skokie, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

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 ...

Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor

Wheaton, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

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 ...

Technical Artist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $156K/yr

Lead efforts in building foundational systems for art to establish scenes, animation, rigging, FX, and material tests. * Coordinate with art, technical, and studio leads to help build and maintain a ...

Technical Artist

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$130K - $156K/yr

Lead efforts in building foundational systems for art to establish scenes, animation, rigging, FX, and material tests. * Coordinate with art, technical, and studio leads to help build and maintain a ...

Blender Tutor

Schaumburg, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of Blender 3D modeling, sculpting, UV unwrapping, texturing, materials with shader nodes, lighting, rigging, animation, physics simulation, and rendering with Cycles and Eevee engines.

Blender Tutor

Naperville, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of Blender 3D modeling, sculpting, UV unwrapping, texturing, materials with shader nodes, lighting, rigging, animation, physics simulation, and rendering with Cycles and Eevee engines.

Blender Tutor

Chicago, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of Blender 3D modeling, sculpting, UV unwrapping, texturing, materials with shader nodes, lighting, rigging, animation, physics simulation, and rendering with Cycles and Eevee engines.

Blender Tutor

Lake Forest, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of Blender 3D modeling, sculpting, UV unwrapping, texturing, materials with shader nodes, lighting, rigging, animation, physics simulation, and rendering with Cycles and Eevee engines.

Blender Tutor

Des Plaines, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of Blender 3D modeling, sculpting, UV unwrapping, texturing, materials with shader nodes, lighting, rigging, animation, physics simulation, and rendering with Cycles and Eevee engines.

Blender Tutor

Wheaton, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of Blender 3D modeling, sculpting, UV unwrapping, texturing, materials with shader nodes, lighting, rigging, animation, physics simulation, and rendering with Cycles and Eevee engines.

Blender Tutor

Highland Park, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of Blender 3D modeling, sculpting, UV unwrapping, texturing, materials with shader nodes, lighting, rigging, animation, physics simulation, and rendering with Cycles and Eevee engines.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Animation Rigging information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$26

$37

How much do animation rigging jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for animation rigging in Chicago, IL is $26.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.80 and $30.72 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 companies working on 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 a rigger do in animation?

An animation rigger creates the skeletal structure and controls for characters and objects, enabling them to move naturally. They use tools like Maya or Blender and work closely with animators to ensure the rig allows for a wide range of motion and expression.

How much do riggers make in animation?

Animation riggers typically earn between $50,000 and $90,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled riggers with proficiency in tools like Maya or Blender and a strong portfolio can command higher salaries, especially in competitive markets or senior roles.

How to become an animation rigger?

To become an animation rigger, you typically need a strong foundation in 3D modeling, rigging, and animation, often gained through a degree in computer graphics, animation, or a related field. Proficiency in rigging tools like Maya or Blender and understanding of character anatomy and movement are essential, along with building a portfolio to showcase your skills. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions helps develop practical expertise in rigging workflows and industry standards.

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.

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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Animation Rigging jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Animation Rigging jobs in Chicago, IL? For Animation Rigging jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animation Rigging jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Animation Rigging jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Animation Rigging job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 58% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 71% In-person, and 29% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,789 per year, or $26.8 per hour.
Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor

Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor

Varsity Tutors

Chicago, IL • Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Part-time

Posted yesterday


Varsity Tutors rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 21 rated private schools and tutoring


Job description

About the Job
The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online Autodesk 3DS Max tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have the flexibility to set your own schedule, earn competitive rates, and make a real impact on students' academic success and understanding. All from the comfort of your home.
Why Join Our Platform?
  • Earn incrementally higher pay for each session with the same student, reaching up to $40/hour.
  • Get paid up to twice per week, ensuring fast and reliable compensation for the tutoring sessions you conduct and invoice.
  • Set your own hours and tutor as much as you'd like.
  • Tutor remotely using our purpose-built Live Learning Platform. No commuting required.
  • Get matched with students best-suited to your teaching style and expertise.
  • Our AI-powered Tutor Copilot enhances your sessions with real-time instructional support, lesson generation, and engagement features, helping you save prep time and focus on impactful teaching.
  • We handle the logistics—you just invoice for your tutoring sessions, and we take care of payments.

What We Look For In a Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor
  • Advanced Subject Mastery: 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 explain polygon modeling, UV unwrapping, keyframe animation, and physically based rendering while preparing students for careers in architectural visualization, game asset creation, and visual effects production.
  • Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching 3D modeling, texturing, and rendering workflows in 3DS Max. Guides students through building polygon and spline-based models, applying and editing materials, setting up studio and environmental lighting, creating keyframe animations, and configuring render settings for quality output. Emphasizes production pipeline understanding and connects 3DS Max skills to architectural visualization, film VFX, and game development.
  • Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar with 3DS Max curricula and common challenges such as understanding polygon topology, UV mapping complexity, and render setting optimization. Adapts instruction using guided modeling exercises, texturing tutorials, and progressive rendering projects to support students from 3D modeling beginners through advanced users developing professional visualization and animation skills.
  • Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with, explain material using multiple approaches, and adapt instruction to meet individual learning needs and styles.
  • Strong communication skills and a friendly, engaging teaching style.
  • Ability to adapt to different learning styles and student needs.

Ways To Connect With Students
  • 1-on-1 Online Tutoring - Provide personalized instruction to individual students.
  • Instant Tutoring - Accept on-demand tutoring requests whenever you're available.

About Varsity Tutors And 1-on-1 Online Tutoring
Our mission is to transform the way people learn by leveraging advanced technology, AI, and the latest in learning science to create personalized learning experiences. Through 1-on-1 Online Tutoring, students receive customized instruction that helps them achieve their learning goals. Our platform is designed to match students with the right tutors, fostering better outcomes and a passion for learning.
Please note: Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Vermont, West Virginia or Puerto Rico.

What Varsity Tutors employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom