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Character Setup Artist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lakshya Digital

VFX Artist Reviewer

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 ...

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Character Setup Artist information

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$104.5K

$120.5K

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How much do character setup artist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 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 is a character setup artist?

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.

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.

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What states have the most Character Setup Artist jobs?

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Character Setup Artist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Character Setup Artist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 33% In-person, and 67% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,531 per year, or $57.9 per hour.

Make Up Artist

Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group

Jacksonville, FL • On-site

Temporary

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Makeup Artist (Seasonal)
Step into the excitement of Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group, the nation's leader in immersive, story-driven live events and haunted attractions. As part of our seasonal team, you'll help create unforgettable experiences that thrill and delight guests-from heart-pounding haunted houses to innovative special events. With a legacy of pushing the boundaries of themed entertainment and a culture fueled by creativity, collaboration, and fun, you'll join a passionate community that brings world-class scares and smiles to life.
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.
Job Summary
As a Makeup Artist, you will play a pivotal role in bringing our haunted attraction's most chilling visions to life. You will be responsible for applying advanced makeup, prosthetics, and special effects to transform performers into unforgettable characters that captivate and haunt our guests. Working in a fast-paced, creative environment, you will collaborate closely with a talented team of artists and performers to ensure every look is both innovative and immersive.
This position requires a passion for the haunt makeup, strong technical skills in special effects makeup, and the ability to thrive under tight deadlines. Your artistry will be integral to the overall guest experience, making you the creative force behind the magic-and the nightmares-of our attraction.
Key Responsibilities
Transformative Makeup Artistry
  • Craft striking, professional-grade makeup looks for actors based on look books and character designs.
  • Employ a variety of techniques-including airbrushing, hand-painting, and prosthetic application-to bring characters to life.
  • Execute established designs faithfully while incorporating creative flair when appropriate.
  • Ensure every look is durable and performance-ready for long, high-energy shows.

Masterful Time Management
  • Work efficiently under tight time constraints to complete complex looks.
  • Manage multiple actors simultaneously, handling touch-ups and reapplications throughout the night.

Impeccable Station Management
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary workspace at all times.
  • Care for and organize tools and supplies, reporting inventory needs promptly.
  • Adapt your setup seamlessly to accommodate varying spaces or quick turnarounds.

Collaborative Creativity
  • Partner with costume and production teams to ensure cohesive character presentation.
  • Communicate clearly with actors about makeup applications, comfort, and removal.
  • Collaborate with other artists to maintain a consistent creative aesthetic across all characters.

Agile Adaptability
  • Respond quickly to unexpected challenges, character changes, or last-minute needs.
  • Troubleshoot makeup issues in demanding conditions such as low light or outdoor environments.

Continuous Learning and Professionalism
  • Participate in pre-season training to master character designs and develop new techniques.
  • Stay updated with the latest products and trends in SFX and character makeup.
  • Maintain professionalism, composure, and respect for performers' comfort in high-pressure settings.

Job Qualifications
  • Must be 18 years of age or older at the time of hire.
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States; employment eligibility will be verified through E-Verify.
  • Must be available evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by event schedules.
  • Comfortable standing and moving throughout the event area for extended periods.
  • Prior experience in special effects, theatrical, film, or haunt makeup required (portfolio or work samples strongly preferred).
  • Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with proven ability to handle challenges with professionalism and poise.

This is a seasonal position tied to events produced by Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group. Employment is at will, and there is no guarantee of continued or repeat employment in future seasons or events.

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