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Character Rigger Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

DK Global

3D Generalist

Redlands, CA · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Character Rigging with CAT. * Lighting and rendering with Vray. * Knowledge of 3ds Max Particles and Dynamics. * Experience with Z-Brush or Mudbox is a plus. * Experience with Mari is a plus.

DK Global

3D Generalist

Redlands, CA · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Character Rigging with CAT. * Lighting and rendering with Vray. * Knowledge of 3ds Max Particles and Dynamics. * Experience with Z-Brush or Mudbox is a plus. * Experience with Mari is a plus.

Carlost Inc.

Account Manager

Burlingame, CA

Strong knowledge of Maya character rigging. 3+ years' experience working as a technical animator on shipped titles Solid understanding of object oriented code design in languages such as python and ...

Carlost Inc.

Account Manager

Burlingame, CA · On-site

Strong knowledge of Maya character rigging. 3+ years' experience working as a technical animator on shipped titles Solid understanding of object oriented code design in languages such as python and ...

AGBO

Expression of Interest - Animator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

Experience structuring & maintaining animation processes such as rigging, or prototyping. * Character Performance experience. * Effectively tell the story in a meaningful way through vivid and ...

The Walt Disney Company

Crowds Artist

Burbank, CA · On-site

$60.69 - $75.95/hr

Design crowd character behaviors and set ups * Team player, willing to collaborate with peers to ... Understanding of rigging and animation techniques * Strong interest in Particle Systems, AI/Machine ...

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Character Rigger information

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$13

$25

$36

How much do character rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for character rigger in California is $25.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.79 and $29.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Character Rigger do?

A Character Rigger is responsible for creating digital skeletons and control systems that allow 3D characters to move realistically in animations, films, and games. They build rigs that deform correctly and provide animators with intuitive controls for posing and motion. This role requires strong knowledge of anatomy, technical skills in software like Maya or Blender, and scripting abilities for automation. Riggers work closely with animators and modelers to ensure smooth character motion and realistic deformation.

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

To thrive as a Character Rigger, you need strong knowledge of anatomy, animation principles, and technical proficiency in 3D rigging, often supported by a degree in animation, computer graphics, or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, and scripting languages like Python or MEL is highly valued. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are key soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities enable character riggers to build functional, efficient rigs that meet animators' needs and support seamless production workflows.

What does a typical day look like for a Character Rigger working on a production team?

A typical day for a Character Rigger involves creating or refining the skeletal structures and controls that allow 3D characters to move realistically in animation. You’ll often collaborate closely with animators, modelers, and technical directors to troubleshoot issues, implement feedback, and ensure rigs fit the artistic and technical requirements of the project. Daily tasks may include building new rigs, adjusting skin weights, writing scripts to automate repetitive processes, and participating in team meetings. This collaborative and iterative process helps ensure characters animate smoothly and efficiently throughout the production pipeline.

How much do character riggers get paid?

Character riggers typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level riggers may start at lower salaries, while experienced professionals working on high-profile projects or with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Proficiency in rigging tools like Maya or Blender and a strong portfolio can influence salary levels.
What are popular job titles related to Character Rigger jobs in California? For Character Rigger jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities in California are hiring for Character Rigger jobs? Cities in California with the most Character Rigger job openings:
Character Rigger jobs near you

Tutor and Teaching Assistant

COGSWELL COLLEGE LLC

San Jose, CA • On-site

$18.45 - $25/hr

Part-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Position SummaryThe Tutor supports students primarily in Game Art/Design and Digital Arts and Animation courses, contributing to a creative, collaborative, and technically proficient learning environment. The role involves providing one-on-one and group tutoring sessions, offering feedback on assignments, helping students navigate tools used in game production and animation, and performing relevant administrative tasks.
Tutored courses include but are not limited to: Character Rigging, Environmental Art, Modeling, Level Design for Single Player Games, Senior Game Studio I & II, Full Game Pipeline and Production.
Key Responsibilities
  • Provide tutoring and technical guidance on 2D design, 3D modeling, rigging, texturing, level design, and production pipelines
  • Assist students with troubleshooting software (Windows required, Mac OS is a plus)
  • Maintain a professional and inclusive learning atmosphere that promotes collaboration and innovation
  • Contribute to the documentation and organizational needs of the tutoring program, perform tutoring-administrative duties as assigned
  • Other relevant tasks, as assigned

Qualifications
Education:
  • Junior or Senior student or Graduate of University of Silicon Valley
  • Maintain a 3.00 GPA (if current student)
  • Has taken the classes to be tutored
  • Has recommendation from instructors of relevant courses

Skills:
  • Strong foundation in digital art, game art, game design
  • Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as Maya, Blender, Unreal Engine, Unity, Substance, or equivalent. Illustrator, After Effects are not required but are pluses.
  • Informative tutoring with expert knowledge of tutored subjects
  • Maintaining a booking schedule, which is based on self-declared availability on at least 4 days/week, between 10hrs-20hrs/week
  • Maintaining regular and efficient communication with Tutoring Program Manager and tutored students

Desired Qualifications: All the above plus ability to tutor 2D Design & Animation, Math and English topics.
Working conditions
Tutoring work takes place on campus and virtually online. This tutoring position requires the use of writing materials and computer software.
Physical requirements
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to communicate verbally and actively listen. The employee frequently must sit for prolonged periods and use hands and arms for activities such as typing and other computer-related tasks.
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities are subject to change at any time.
Non-benefit Position

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