ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Character Rigger Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

Circuit of The Americas

General Technician

Del Valle, TX · On-site

... character performances, special events, park-wide activations, and seasonal programming. This role provides hands-on support across multiple technical areas including audio, lighting, video, rigging ...

People also search for

All JobsCharacter Rigger JobsCharacter Rigger Jobs in Austin, TX

Character Rigger information

See Austin, TX salary details

$14

$25

$36

How much do character rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for character rigger in Austin, TX is $25.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.88 and $29.57 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.
More about Character Rigger jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Character Rigger jobs in Austin, TX? The most popular types of Character Rigger jobs in Austin, TX are:
What are popular job titles related to Character Rigger jobs in Austin, TX? For Character Rigger jobs in Austin, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Character Rigger jobs in Austin, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Character Rigger jobs in Austin, TX are:
What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Character Rigger jobs? Cities near Austin, TX with the most Character Rigger job openings:
Character Rigger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Character Rigger job openings in Austin, TX as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,638 per year, or $25.8 per hour.
General Technician

General Technician

CIRCUIT OF THE AMERICAS LLC

Del Valle, TX • On-site

Other

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Description

Circuit of The Americas (COTA) is a 365-entertainment destination for world-class events located in Austin, TX. The sports and entertainment portfolio at COTA is unmatched in the country with Formula 1 US Grand Prix, NASCAR and MotoGP attracting global fans during championship races on the famed Circuit and Live Nation producing over 30 headline concerts every year at the Germania Insurance Amphitheater. COTALAND is a 20-acre theme park featuring two first of their kind Roller Coasters and over three dozen rides opening Summer of 2026. 


The General Technician supports the daily technical and operational needs of COTALAND's Entertainment department, including stage shows, character performances, special events, park-wide activations, and seasonal programming. This role provides hands-on support across multiple technical areas including audio, lighting, video, rigging, props, basic show control, special effects, and event infrastructure. The General Technician plays an important role in keeping entertainment offerings safe, show-ready, and consistent while maintaining a professional presence in both guest-facing and backstage environments. This position is ideal for a versatile technician who enjoys variety, adapts quickly, and is ready to jump in wherever needed to support the team and deliver high-quality guest experiences. 

Requirements

Support daily entertainment operations including pre-show checks, system verification, basic cue support, and post-show resets. 

Assist with load-in and load-out for seasonal events, pop-up activations, park programming, and special events. 

Perform basic troubleshooting and problem-solving to maintain show continuity and minimize downtime. 

Communicate clearly with Stage Managers, Entertainment Leadership, Performers, and Operations teams to support safe and consistent show delivery. 

Support setup, operation and strike, and basic maintenance of audio systems including microphones, speakers, playback systems, and cabling. 

Support lighting systems including basic setup, focus, operation, and troubleshooting for venues and special events. 

Assist with video playback systems, venue display setups, and basic video operations as required. 

Assist with safe setup and strike of rigging, truss, motors, hoists, and overhead infrastructure as needed. 

Support entertainment props and scenic elements including transport, organization, resets, minor repairs, and show readiness. 

Assist with basic show control and playback support including troubleshooting of power, data, and show cue systems. 

Support theatrical special effects such as haze, fog, snow, and other atmosphere-enhancing systems. 

Assist with warehouse organization, equipment check-in and check-out, staging, and inventory tracking. 

Maintain cleanliness and organization of work areas, venues, storage locations, and department equipment. 

Follow all safety protocols including PPE requirements, venue rules, and safe equipment operation.

Drive company vehicles as assigned including golf carts and utility vehicles following site rules and traffic patterns. 

Perform other duties as assigned based on daily operational needs.


Basic Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent required. 

Demonstrated experience in live entertainment, events, stage production, or themed entertainment environments. 

Working knowledge of theatrical terminology and ability to follow technical paperwork and instructions. 

Basic troubleshooting skills related to power, audio, and data systems. 

Ability to work safely in a fast-paced, guest-facing environment with strong attention to detail. 

Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather and in nighttime conditions. 

Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physical work including climbing ladders, working at height, kneeling, squatting, and standing or walking for extended periods. 

Ability to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends, holidays, and peak seasonal periods. 

Positive, professional demeanor with strong teamwork and communication skills. 

Valid driver's license required.


Technical Discipline Experience 


Candidates must have experience in at least one specialty area below and be willing and able to learn additional skills required for the job as needed: 

Audio 

Lighting 

Video 

Rigging 

Props and scenic support 

Show control and playback systems 

Special effects support


Preferred Qualifications:

Minimum 2 years of experience in entertainment technology, stage operations, events, or themed entertainment. 

Experience supporting multiple disciplines in a live environment. 

Prior leadership experience such as crew lead, A2, L2, V2, or tech captain. 

Advanced skills in networking, programming, or computer-based entertainment systems. 

Vendor certifications related to repair and maintenance of professional entertainment equipment. 

Lift certifications and or experience operating elevated work platforms including scissor lifts and boom lifts.

 
 

Work Schedule and Conditions

Flexible scheduling based on event calendars, installation workload, and operational needs.

May include early mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, and short-notice assignments.

Work is project-based and seasonal, with hours increasing during peak event and property periods.

Work may require outdoor installations and exposure to weather conditions.

Required Qualifications:

 

Ability to stand, sit, use hands to handle, or feel, reach with hands and arms.

Ability to lift and/ or move up to 50 pounds.

Ability to squat, bend, twist, push/pull.

Ability to stand/walk for long periods.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and distance vision.

Work in extreme environments outdoors throughout the year.

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate but can be loud during events.

Salary commensurate with experience.


Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job.


EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY:

COTA strongly supports equal employment opportunity for all applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, marital status, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by state and federal law.

Apply