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Character Rigger Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

NJI Media LLC

Motion Graphic Designer

Washington, DC

Support campaign and brand work by bringing static concepts to life - lower-thirds, motion graphic packages, animated social content, character rigging, and beyond. * Design for the Moment: Produce ...

NJI Media LLC

Motion Graphic Designer

Washington, DC · On-site

Support campaign and brand work by bringing static concepts to life - lower-thirds, motion graphic packages, animated social content, character rigging, and beyond. * Design for the Moment: Produce ...

Offset Strategic Services

Pega System Architect

Sterling, VA

$56.75 - $74.50/hr

We expect competence and character and look for uniquely skilled and passionate individuals bound ... Applicants must have military Airborne, rigger experience. Additionally, these positions assist ...

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Character Rigger information

See Washington salary details

$16

$29

$41

How much do character rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for character rigger in Washington is $29.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.15 and $33.75 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.
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Character Rigger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Character Rigger job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, and 28% Part Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,289 per year, or $29.5 per hour.
Motion Graphic Designer

Motion Graphic Designer

NJI Media LLC

Washington, DC

Other

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Description

NJI is an agency where creativity knows no borders. We navigate the complexities of public affairs, charting new paths across industries and continents to deliver work that sparks conversation, shifts perception, and inspires action.


The Role
We're seeking a Video and Motion Graphic Designer who leads with curiosity - someone who does their best work at the intersection of design and motion, and is eager to grow their craft across a wide range of formats and clients.


This role is your entry point into ambitious, multidisciplinary work: animate interactive presentation screens seen on UNGA's stage, bring kinetic logos to life, support social and reel cuts for events, and help our team tell stories that move people - literally.


Note: This is a hybrid position that requires being in our Georgetown office three days per week on a flexible schedule. Our team meets for lunch every Wednesday, and we encourage crew members to join us in person for two additional days of their choosing. NJI does not currently offer relocation fees.


What You'll Do

  • Set Things in Motion: Support campaign and brand work by bringing static concepts to life - lower-thirds, motion graphic packages, animated social content, character rigging, and beyond. 
  • Design for the Moment: Produce fast-turnaround graphics for the occasional live events, where speed and precision have to coexist.
  • Storyboard to Screen: Develop storyboards, illustrations, animations, and video graphics that carry a clear message and hold up against brand standards at every frame.
  • Create Graphics Package: Own concept and design on graphic packages meant to move, 
  • Anchor in Excellence: Maintain visual consistency and quality across deliverables, with a sharp eye for detail and a commitment to craft at every frame.
  • Collaborate Globally: Work closely with a dynamic team to execute concepts aligned with established client brand systems, contributing to projects from brief through delivery.


What You'll Bring

  • Motion Foundation: Proficiency in After Effects is a must. Premier Pro and basic compositing skills are a strong plus. You know how to build a clean, well-organized project file.
  • Illustration & Design Sensibility: You have a working eye for typography, layout, and color. Comfort with icon creation and character and scene illustrations makes you a stronger, more versatile candidate. We don't need a fine artist, but we love a creator who can draw.
  • A social first mindset: You understand how platforms communicate, have a keen eye for what's on trend and most importantly what makes users engage with content in a meaningful way.
  • Tenure: 2 to 3 years experience as a motion designer. 
  • Portfolio: Your reel or portfolio demonstrates motion range - not perfection, but range. Show us what you're capable of and where you're headed.
  • Attention to Detail: A sharp eye for consistency, catching the smallest errors before they take flight.
  • Adaptability: The ability to pivot with agility and balance efficiency with top-tier quality.
  • Own the System, Not Just the File: Stay current on motion trends, tools, and techniques - and use that knowledge to build reusable animation toolkits (type systems, transitions, lower-third packages, templates) that raise the creative floor across every campaign.
  • BONUS: Are you dabbling in 3D, or emerging AI tools? We value those with wide creative curiosities and encourage passion projects. 

Diversity Commitment. Authenticity is the foundation of boundless creativity. Rooted in diverse life experiences, our team challenges the status quo through our work and culture every day. We are committed to sustaining and improving NJI's inclusive workplace by actively expanding the diversity of our team. We encourage people from underrepresented groups to apply. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please contact info@njimedia.com.We are unable to offer work visa sponsorship at this time.


Cover Letter. We think of cover letters more in the old-fashioned pen pal sense. Putting pen to page to share your greatest thoughts and interests. So, keep the job summary and skills list in your resume and write something that personally expresses more about who you are and what draws you to NJI and this role.


Apply