ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Character Rigger Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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

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 ...

Roblox

Senior 3D Artist, Technical

San Mateo, CA

$144K - $173K/yr

Partner with engineers to prototype and guide the development of our movement and rigging systems ... Familiarity with scripting languages and node-based character controllers (i.e. Unreal Blueprints ...

Delectus, LLC

Industrial Maintenance Mechanic

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$26.75 - $32.75/hr

... rigging, hydraulics, pneumatics, and motor/pump alignment * Ability to read and interpret ... Our core values of character, capability, and responsibility shape our approach, ensuring precise ...

2K

Expert Animator

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$123K - $182K/yr

Work together with character artists and riggers to establish both core and secondary functionality of our characters. Who We Think Will Be A Great Fit: * 6-8+ years of experience in game development ...

2K

Expert Animator

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$123K - $182K/yr

Work together with character artists and riggers to establish both core and secondary functionality of our characters. Who We Think Will Be A Great Fit: * 6-8+ years of experience in game development ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCharacter Rigger JobsCharacter Rigger Jobs in California

Character Rigger information

See California salary details

$13

$25

$36

How much do character rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 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 does a rigger do for a job?

A character rigger creates the skeletal structures and controls that allow 3D characters to move and be animated in digital environments. They use specialized software like Maya or Blender and need strong knowledge of anatomy, rigging techniques, and scripting to develop functional and efficient rigs for animation. Rigging is essential in fields like video game development, film, and visual effects.

How to become a character rigger?

To become a character rigger, you typically need a strong foundation in 3D modeling, animation, and rigging software such as Maya or Blender. Gaining skills in anatomy, weight painting, and scripting, along with a portfolio demonstrating rigging projects, is essential; some professionals also pursue relevant degrees or certifications in animation or computer graphics.

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 does a character designer get paid?

A character rigger's salary typically ranges from $50,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled riggers with proficiency in tools like Maya or Blender and a strong portfolio can earn higher salaries, especially in larger studios or with specialized expertise.

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 lower, while experienced professionals working on high-profile projects or in major studios can earn higher salaries. Skills in software like Maya or Blender and a strong portfolio can influence earning potential.
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:
What job categories do people searching Character Rigger jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Character Rigger jobs in California are:
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
Infographic showing various Character Rigger job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,405 per year, or $25.7 per hour.
Visual Effects Animation Artist

Visual Effects Animation Artist

Anatomage, Inc.

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Who is Anatomage?
Founded in 2004, Anatomage is a world-leading health care technology company. Anatomage offers 3D software for anatomy and physiology education including a life-sized virtual dissection platform.
About the Role:
As a VFX and Animation Artist at Anatomage, you will be the driving creative force
behind our real-time simulations and visual effects. While this role requires a
well-rounded 3D generalist skillset including modeling, texturing, and lighting, your
primary focus will be crafting stunning visual effects and lifelike animations.
What You'll Do:
You will utilize your 3D generalist skills - spanning modeling, texturing, and lighting - to
create a variety of digital environments. Your main emphasis will be bringing these
environments to life by executing workflows across both real-time simulation and
character animation within Unreal Engine. You will utilize the Niagara system and
Houdini to create scientifically accurate special effects. You will also handle character
rigging and animation for MetaHumans. While you may have a stronger background or
personal specialization in one of these areas, you will be expected to actively deliver
results across both disciplines, ensuring all assets are technically optimized for our
interactive platforms.
Requirements
Skills and Abilities Required:
Candidates should have a strong 3D generalist foundation in industry-standard software such as Maya, Blender, or Substance Painter for modeling, texturing, and lighting environments. Alongside these generalist skills, candidates must possess deep, hands-on experience in either real-time VFX such as Niagara, Blueprints, Houdini simulation pipelines or advanced character rigging and animation fundamentals including experience with MetaHumans or a strong combination of both. The ideal candidate demonstrates strong organizational skills, artistic talent, and exceptional attention to detail.
* Resume and Portfolio required in order to be considered*
Minimum Education and Experience Required:
Formal education in Art, Digital Arts, 3D Modeling, Animation, Medical Illustration, or a related discipline is preferred. Equivalent professional experience and a strong portfolio demonstrating relevant skills will also be considered. Minimum 3 years of professional realtime VFX or Animation experience.
Benefits
What We Offer
  • Health, Dental, and Vision care for you and your family
  • 401K savings plan with employer matching
  • Generous PTO leave and paid holidays
  • Casual work culture
  • Commuter benefits
  • On site gym facility
  • Team bonding activities, catered lunches, and free snacks in the office!

About Anatomage
Anatomage has been financially robust and growing for 20 consecutive years.
Anatomage offers the world's first and only life-sized virtual dissection table. Students can learn anatomy and physiology using highly interactive and accurate real human-based digital data. Institutions can offer high quality education without worrying about chemicals, facility costs, and regulatory issues. Hundreds of schools have adopted the Anatomage Table as the main teaching tool for students.
At Anatomage, there is an opportunity to work alongside the best in the field. With a diverse group of people from various technical, clinical, and artistic backgrounds, Anatomage provides a culture where distinguished individuals can work and collaborate in an organic manner. Our team members all bring unique strengths and talents to their group and embrace each other's diverse perspectives. Anatomage offers a distinct work experience with an exceptional opportunity to develop careers. Our philosophy is to foster a dynamic work environment, and we are proud to let our employees' knowledge and responsibilities grow with the company.
In the U.S., the standard base pay range for this role is $80,000.00- $120,000.00 Annually. This base pay range is for the U.S. and is not applicable to locations outside of the U.S.. Actual amounts will vary depending on experience, performance and location. In addition to a competitive base pay, employees in this role may be eligible for incentive compensation. Incentive compensation is not guaranteed.
Anatomage is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not offer H1B Sponsorship at this time. Local candidates preferred.

Apply