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Character Rigger Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Roblox

3D Animator (Short Term)

San Mateo, CA

You'll focus on creating high-quality, foundational character animations for the Roblox platform ... quality facial rigging/expression work * Expert-level skills in Autodesk Maya for animation ...

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

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA · On-site

$124K - $142K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Maintain a strong understanding of character performance, form, gestures, and silhouettes for both ... Experience structuring & maintaining animation processes such as rigging or prototyping.

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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 Aug 16, 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 as a character rigger?

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 is the salary of character rigger?

The average salary for a character rigger typically ranges from $50,000 to $90,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Skilled riggers with proficiency in tools like Maya or Blender and industry experience can earn higher salaries, especially in major entertainment hubs.

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Character Rigger jobs in California?

The most popular types of Character Rigger jobs in California are:

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Internship, 58% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 18% Temporary, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 88% In-person, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,405 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Account Manager

Carlost Inc.

Burlingame, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

High Moon Studios is seeking a talented and self-directed Technical Animator who can join for a 12-month temporary assignment. The candidate must be passionate about making great games, and must be a strong problem-solver and effective communicator.
Responsibilities:
Creation of prototype and production animation content.
Work with the animation lead on tool, system and game play prototypes.
Collaborate with the Tech Art Team in the development tools that support the animation pipeline.
Collaborate with Design, Engineering in the development of in-game animation systems.
Troubleshoot and consistently present solutions to technical issues related to animations.
Roll out production ready rigs/tools/ systems to the animation team.
Provide desk side support for the animation team - helping to resolve technical issues.
Meets project deadlines / milestones, as set by Project Leads.
Requirements:
Exceptional communication and organizational skills.
Must have the desire to create great games.
Understanding of animation principals which can be clearly displayed in your demo reel.
Thorough knowledge of Maya and other animation software.
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 C#.
Experience working with game engine animation systems.
Good knowledge of Motion Capture techniques.
Bonus Qualifications:
Solid understanding of human and animal anatomy.
Scripting in MEL.
About Us
World class games start with world class talent. This is a unique time in Activision’s history – and one of the most exciting opportunities to join us

Activision Blizzard, headquartered in Santa Monica, CA, is the premier worldwide publisher of interactive entertainment software like Call of Duty, Destiny and the Blizzard Entertainment Franchises.
High Moon Studios
Founded in 2002, High Moon Studios is an award-winning studio that’s developed for blockbuster franchises like Call of Duty and Transformers. We are 100 people strong, located in the always-sunny beachside city of Carlsbad, California.
Our goal is simple: make game experiences that kick ass and blow minds

High Moon Studios is led by award winning veterans and a crack production staff that have over 200 years of combined development experience. We work hard. We play hard.

It’s time to add world class talent as we partner with Bungie to work on their ground-breaking Destiny Franchise.Employment Type: Full-Time

Apply