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Character Rigger Jobs (NOW HIRING)

3D Character Artist (Mid-Senior) thatgamecompany is looking for a Mid-Senior 3D Character Artist to ... Familiarity with Maya rigging/skinning Nice to Haves: * A passionate Gamer * A Sky Player * Human ...

Rigger Foreman

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

$23.75 - $30.75/hr

High school diploma or equivalent. 2+ years rigging and Versa lift experience preferred ... Character Attributes/Behavioral Expectations: * Thorough understanding of machines and tools being ...

$112K - $117K/yr

Ensure proper topology, rigging, and skinning for characters to meet animation and gameplay requirements. * Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges related to character development. * Actively ...

Rigger Foreman

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

$23.75 - $30.75/hr

High school diploma or equivalent. 2+ years rigging and Versa lift experience preferred ... Character Attributes/Behavioral Expectations: * Thorough understanding of machines and tools being ...

Rigger Foreman

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

$23 - $29.75/hr

High school diploma or equivalent. 2+ years rigging and Versa lift experience preferred ... Character Attributes/Behavioral Expectations: * Thorough understanding of machines and tools being ...

Rigger Foreman

Saint Cloud, MN

$23.75 - $30.75/hr

High school diploma or equivalent. 2+ years rigging and Versa lift experience preferred ... Character Attributes/Behavioral Expectations: * Thorough understanding of machines and tools being ...

Ensure proper topology, rigging, and skinning for characters to meet animation and gameplay requirements. * Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges related to character development. * Actively ...

Rigger Foreman

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

$23 - $29.75/hr

High school diploma or equivalent. 2+ years rigging and Versa lift experience preferred ... Character Attributes/Behavioral Expectations: * Thorough understanding of machines and tools being ...

Adjunct Faculty DAA

San Jose, CA · On-site

$3K - $4K/mo

Classes include: * Character Rigging - emphasis on character rigging techniques: joints, surface binding, articulation, forward and inverse kinematics, and hierarchical node structures

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Character Rigger information

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How much do character rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for character rigger in the United States is $26.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.08 and $29.81 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.
What cities are hiring for Character Rigger jobs? Cities with the most Character Rigger job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Character Rigger jobs? The most popular types of Character Rigger jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Character Rigger jobs? The top employers for Character Rigger jobs are:
What states have the most Character Rigger jobs? States with the most job openings for Character Rigger jobs include:
Infographic showing various Character Rigger job openings in the United States 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 $54,114 per year, or $26 per hour.
3D Character Artist (Mid-Senior)

3D Character Artist (Mid-Senior)

Thatgamecompany

Remote

$81K - $114K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

3D Character Artist (Mid-Senior)
thatgamecompany is looking for a Mid-Senior 3D Character Artist to join our team!
Responsibilities:
  • Create 3D characters and cosmetics in a visual style aligned with the world of Sky
  • Skinning character and cosmetic assets
  • Collaborate with project leads, concept artists, designers, and engineers
  • Brainstorm ideas and create rapid 3D prototypes during the concept and design phase
  • Support the rest of the 3D team to create character assets
  • Review and fix bugs of all complexities
  • Contribute to documentation and resource libraries for the art department
  • Promote, contribute to, and participate in a culture of inclusion and diversity

Must Haves:
  • Online portfolio demonstrating character art skills
  • 3+ years of experience as a 3D Character Artist at a game studio
  • Proficient modeling skills in Maya or equivalent
  • Self-motivated, humble, and a team player
  • Open-minded and able to implement feedback from peers and art directors in a timely manner
  • Passion for creating memorable characters for games
  • Understanding of Industry Standard Software such as Photoshop, ZBrush, and Texture Creation/Material Editing (Substance Painter/Unity)
  • Familiarity with Maya rigging/skinning

Nice to Haves:
  • A passionate Gamer
  • A Sky Player
  • Human Anatomy & Animal Anatomy knowledge
  • Understanding of clothing construction and real-world materials
  • Strive to create a gaming experience that brings a positive impact to the gaming world
  • Experience creating a game from the ground up
  • Portfolio demonstrating a variety of art styles

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S or Canada. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.
The salary range for this position is $81,000 USD to $114,000 USD annually, with the opportunity to earn an annual discretionary bonus. This salary range is an estimate, and the actual salary may vary based on the Company's compensation practices.
Employees in this position are eligible to participate in the Company's standard employee benefit programs, which currently include the following: medical, dental, vision, 401k, and paid time off.
Our base pay is benchmarked against regional market and industry data and is adjusted to reflect the cost of living in your specific geographic area.
We look forward to meeting you!
#L1-Remote