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Character Rigger Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Barnhart Crane & Rigging

Field Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

Barnhart Energy Company, a sister company of Barnhart Crane and Rigging, is looking for Field ... High-Character * We exhibit and expect trust, fairness, humility, and integrity. Field Engineer ...

Barnhart Crane & Rigging

Field Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

Barnhart Energy Company, a sister company of Barnhart Crane and Rigging, is looking for Field ... High-Character * We exhibit and expect trust, fairness, humility, and integrity. Field Engineer ...

Barnhart Crane & Rigging

Field Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

Barnhart Energy Company, a sister company of Barnhart Crane and Rigging, is looking for Field ... High-Character * We exhibit and expect trust, fairness, humility, and integrity. Field Engineer ...

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Character Rigger information

See Tennessee salary details

$12

$23

$33

How much do character rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for character rigger in Tennessee is $23.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.96 and $27.07 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 the most commonly searched types of Character Rigger jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Character Rigger jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Character Rigger jobs in Tennessee? For Character Rigger jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Character Rigger jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Character Rigger jobs in Tennessee are:
Character Rigger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Character Rigger job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, and 23% Part Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,115 per year, or $23.6 per hour.
Field Engineer

Field Engineer

Barnhart Crane & Rigging

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Barnhart rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

126th of 148 rated vehicle equipment hire

Job description

Barnhart Energy Company, a sister company of Barnhart Crane and Rigging, is looking for Field Engineers to join the Wind Services team. This is an ongoing opportunity. We always accept applications for this role.

Mission: One-Team, leading from the Front, creating good Works.

Principles:

  • One-Community
    • We care deeply, valuing collaboration, wise counsel, and lasting Relationships.
  • Full-Commitment
    • We work with diligence and persistence, delivering upon our promises.
  • True-Craftsmanship
    • We value our work, continually striving for first-time excellence with innovative solutions.
  • High-Character
    • We exhibit and expect trust, fairness, humility, and integrity.

Field Engineer Serves the Project Team as a technical resource on the job site.

This is a travel position and requires relocation to a project site.

Core Responsibilities:

  • Identify and solve problems for the project team (full-Commitment)
  • Technical documentation interpretation for crews (true-Craftsmanship)
  • Serve as Liaison to Project Leadership (one-Community)
  • Audit work in the field for compliance with standards (high-Character)
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

  • Able to temporarily relocate and live on site
  • Technically minded
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering , Engineering Technology or Construction Management; equivalent experience considered

This is a travel position and requires relocation to a project site.

EOE/AA Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran

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