1

Character Setup Artist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Review real-time VFX assets (environmental effects, combat FX, character abilities, particle ... Integrate approved VFX into the game engine, ensuring correct setup, performance optimization, and ...

... character and concept artists who strive to innovate and inspire. What You'll Do Psyonix is ... setup, LOD generation, PBR texture creation and in-engine implementation * Train outsource partner ...

Journalism Teaching Fellow

Atlanta, GA

$47K - $64K/yr

... the Arts invites applications for a part-time teaching fellow within the Journalism in Sports ... Capability to climb and descend ladders for equipment setup, adjustments, or maintenance. * Periods ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Character Setup Artist information

See salary details

$104.5K

$120.5K

$128.5K

How much do character setup artist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for character setup artist in the United States is $120,531.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $121,000.00 and $127,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Character Setup Artist position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Character Setup Artist, you need a solid understanding of character rigging, anatomy, and animation principles, usually backed by a degree in art, animation, or a related field. Mastery of industry-standard 3D software such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, or 3ds Max, and familiarity with scripting languages like Python or MEL, are highly valued. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication make an individual stand out in this position. These abilities ensure characters are properly rigged and function seamlessly, fostering smooth collaboration across animation and production teams.

What is a Character Setup Artist job?

A Character Setup Artist is responsible for preparing 3D character models for animation by creating rigs, skinning, and implementing deformation systems. They ensure characters move naturally by setting up joints, controls, and constraints that animators use to bring them to life. This role requires proficiency in rigging tools, scripting, and character anatomy to create efficient and flexible character rigs. Character Setup Artists work closely with modelers and animators to ensure seamless animation performance in films, games, and other media.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Character Setup Artist?

As a Character Setup Artist, your typical day involves creating and refining digital rigs for character models, which includes building skeletons, setting up controls, and ensuring characters deform correctly during animation. You’ll collaborate closely with modelers, animators, and technical directors to troubleshoot and optimize rigs for both performance and ease of use. Your work may also include developing custom rigging tools, performing quality checks, and sometimes skinning characters to ensure seamless movement. This dynamic role combines technical expertise with artistic sensibility to bring characters to life in animated productions or video games.

More about Character Setup Artist jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Character Setup Artist jobs? The most popular types of Character Setup Artist jobs are:
What states have the most Character Setup Artist jobs? States with the most job openings for Character Setup Artist jobs include:

Job description

Makeup Artist – Seasonal Madison TN  | Seasonal | Sept - Nov

Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group is the nation's leading creator of immersive, story-driven entertainment—and proudly the world's largest operator of Halloween attractions. With eighteen markets spanning Florida to California and millions of guests thrilled each year, we don't just produce events. We redefine what's possible. Headquartered in Denver and powered by a team of fearless creators, we've built a culture where curiosity, collaboration, and a relentless drive to go beyond expectations are the standard—not the exception. When you join Thirteenth Floor, you're not just taking a job. You're stepping into the magic behind the screams.


Returning applicants: If you have worked for Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group in a prior season, please contact your location manager directly regarding rehire status. Do not submit a new application through the online system.


What You'll Do

As our Seasonal Makeup Artist, you're the creative force behind the nightmares. Every character that haunts our guests starts in your chair—your artistry, speed, and precision transform performers into unforgettable creatures that make our attraction legendary.

Transformative Makeup Artistry

  • Craft professional-grade special effects looks for actors based on established look books and original character designs

  • Execute a full range of techniques including airbrushing, hand-painting, and prosthetic application to bring characters to life

  • Ensure every application is durable enough to withstand hours of intense performance, movement, and environmental conditions

  • Faithfully execute established designs while contributing your own creative flair where appropriate

Time Management & Show Pacing

  • Work swiftly and efficiently to complete complex looks within tight pre-show windows

  • Manage multiple actors simultaneously, prioritizing touch-ups and reapplications throughout the night to keep every character show-ready

Station Management

  • Maintain a clean, organized, and fully sanitized workspace at all times

  • Monitor inventory, care for all tools and supplies, and report restocking needs proactively

  • Adapt your station setup to varying locations, space limitations, and nightly demands

Collaboration & Communication

  • Partner with the costume department to ensure cohesive, compelling character presentations

  • Communicate clearly with actors about application processes, product use, and aftercare

  • Collaborate with fellow artists to maintain visual consistency and share techniques that elevate the overall aesthetic

Adaptability & Professionalism

  • Respond quickly to last-minute character changes, actor substitutions, or design adjustments mid-show

  • Troubleshoot makeup challenges in demanding conditions—low light, outdoor settings, high humidity

  • Participate in pre-season training to master character designs and expand your technical toolkit

  • Maintain a calm, positive, and professional demeanor that respects every performer's comfort and personal space

What You Bring
  • Demonstrated experience in special effects, theatrical, or character makeup—haunted attraction or live entertainment experience strongly preferred

  • Proficiency in prosthetics, airbrushing, hand-painting, and SFX techniques

  • Ability to work quickly and accurately under pressure without sacrificing quality

  • Strong collaborative instincts and clear communication skills with performers and fellow artists

  • Organized, detail-oriented, and proactive about station and inventory management

  • Comfortable standing and moving throughout the event area for the duration of each shift

  • Availability to work evenings, weekends, and all scheduled event dates—reliable attendance is essential

  • Must be 18 years of age or older


Employment Details
Employment Type: Seasonal/Temporary
Expected Season Duration: Late September – Early November 2026
Work Schedule: Evenings, weekends, and holidays required during operational season

This is a seasonal/temporary position with an anticipated end date. Employment beyond the stated season is not guaranteed.


E-Verify

Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group participates in E-Verify. As required by federal law, we will verify the identity and employment eligibility of all hired individuals.


Equal Opportunity Employer

Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.


Reasonable Accommodations

Applicants with disabilities may request reasonable accommodations at any point in the hiring process by contacting hr@thirteenthfloor.com.