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Contract 3D Rigging Artist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Flying Bark Productions

3D Animation Lead

Denver, NC · On-site +1

The lead also coaches junior artists, collaborates with other departments, and supports production ... An understanding of rigs and typical rigging set-ups, animation pipelines and transferring data ...

Lindeman & Associates

3D Designer

Culver City, CA · On-site

LA brings together artists, editors, and storytellers into one hyper-collaborative team ... LA is seeking an experienced 3D Designer to join our Brand Design team under a contract expected to ...

Lindeman & Associates

3D Designer

Culver City, CA · On-site

$50 - $65/hr

LA brings together artists, editors, and storytellers into one hyper-collaborative team ... LA is seeking an experienced 3D Designer to join our Brand Design team under a contract expected to ...

smartdept. inc.

3D Visualization Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

This is a project based, fully remote, ongoing contract opportunity that can fluctuate up or down ... the artistic side (photoreal lighting, materials, and composition) is essential. What You'll Do:

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How much do contract 3d rigging artist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract 3d rigging artist in the United States is $39.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.16 and $48.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract 3D rigging artist?

Contract 3D Rigging Artists are professionals who specialize in creating the digital skeletons and control systems (rigs) used to animate 3D models in films, video games, and other digital media, typically on a freelance or temporary contract basis. They work with character models to ensure they can be moved and posed realistically by animators. These artists often collaborate closely with modelers, animators, and technical directors to ensure rigs are functional, efficient, and meet the creative needs of the project. Contract rigging artists are hired for specific projects or time periods, giving studios flexibility in staffing for various production cycles.

How does a contract 3D rigging artist typically collaborate with animators and modelers during a project?

As a Contract 3D Rigging Artist, you'll work closely with both modelers and animators to ensure that character rigs function smoothly and meet project requirements. You'll often receive models from the modeling team and will need to create rigs that allow animators to bring the characters or objects to life. Regular communication and feedback sessions are common, as you may need to adjust rigs based on animator input or troubleshoot deformation issues. This collaborative process helps ensure the final animations are both visually appealing and technically sound.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract 3D rigging artist, and why are they important?

A Contract 3D Rigging Artist needs expertise in character rigging, anatomy, and animation principles, typically supported by a degree in animation or related experience. Proficiency in industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, and knowledge of scripting languages like Python or MEL is essential. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication help artists collaborate smoothly with animators and technical teams. These skills ensure the creation of flexible, efficient rigs that allow for high-quality animation and seamless project delivery.
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Contract 3D Rigging Artist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract 3D Rigging Artist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,070 per year, or $39.5 per hour.

3D Character Artist - Talent Pool (N Americas)

Charleston, SC • On-site

Side
See more jobs at Sideexternal

$113K - $118K/yr

Contractor

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

About This Opportunity

Please note, this listing is not for an immediate open position but for our Talent Pool for Co-Development Roles. By applying, you express interest in being considered for future project-based opportunities that align with your skills and experience.

These opportunities are contingent on client needs and project availability. As projects are initiated or client proposals are developed, we will review candidates from this pool and contact those who most closely align with the specific requirements of the co-development opportunity.

As a 3D Character Artist, you will play a key role in crafting high-quality characters that bring life and personality to our projects. This mid-level generalist role focuses on modeling, texturing, and optimizing character assets across a variety of styles for AAA-quality games on PC, console, mobile, and VR/AR platforms.

How We Keep You Engaged

We maintain strong relationships with our talent pool by providing regular updates, industry insights, and information on upcoming opportunities. We will check in to confirm your availability and interest.

Our hiring teams carefully vet and select top candidates who best meet project needs, ensuring that you are matched with the right opportunity when it becomes available.

Next Steps

If you are passionate about contributing to cutting-edge projects and want to be considered for future co-development opportunities, we encourage you to apply to this listing. While there may not be an immediate opening, your application ensures that you will be part of our ongoing talent review for upcoming roles.

Key Responsibilities

  • Create high-quality 3D character assets, including organic and hard surface elements, from concept to final game-ready models.
  • Collaborate with art leads, designers, and animators to ensure characters align with the project's artistic vision and technical requirements.
  • Develop textures and materials using industry-standard tools, ensuring assets are optimized for performance across platforms.
  • Work within established pipelines and workflows to maintain consistency and efficiency in asset creation.
  • Ensure proper topology, rigging, and skinning for characters to meet animation and gameplay requirements.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges related to character development.
  • Actively participate in team critiques, offering and receiving feedback to refine assets.

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