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Freelance Character Rigger Jobs (NOW HIRING)

FREELANCE : We are seeking a part-time freelance #animator , specializing in 2D and 3D animation ... Deliver polished animations (2D, 3D, Character, Compositing) working with team members across all ...

Freelance Character Rigger information

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$14

$26

$36

How much do freelance character rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance 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 are freelance character riggers?

Freelance character riggers are professionals who specialize in creating the digital skeletons and controls that allow 3D character models to move realistically in animation, games, or visual effects. Unlike full-time employees, they work independently and are hired on a project-by-project basis by studios, game developers, or animation companies. Their responsibilities include building rigs for characters, refining deformation, and ensuring that models are ready for animators to bring to life. Freelance riggers often collaborate remotely and may handle multiple projects for different clients at the same time.

What are some common challenges freelance character riggers face when working with clients remotely?

Freelance character riggers often encounter challenges such as managing client expectations regarding rig functionality, adapting rigs for various animation styles, and ensuring clear communication about project requirements and deadlines. Since work is typically done remotely, it's crucial to establish efficient feedback loops and share progress through video calls or annotated playblasts. Additionally, freelancers need to be proactive in troubleshooting and providing documentation so clients can easily use and modify the rigs as needed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Character Rigger, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Character Rigger, you need a strong understanding of anatomy, rigging principles, and 3D animation pipelines, often supported by a background in computer graphics or animation. Proficiency with industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, and knowledge of scripting languages like Python or MEL is typically required. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with animators and clients to deliver high-quality rigs. These skills ensure the creation of flexible, efficient rigs that meet production needs and enable seamless animation workflow.

What is the difference between Freelance Character Rigger vs Freelance 3D Modeler?

AspectFreelance Character RiggerFreelance 3D Modeler
CredentialsKnowledge of rigging software, anatomy, and animation principlesProficiency in 3D modeling software, sculpting, and texturing
Work EnvironmentOften works remotely for animation studios, game developers, or independent projectsWorks remotely or on-site creating 3D assets for games, films, or visualization
Industry UsageUsed in animation, gaming, and VFX industries for character setupUsed across gaming, film, and product visualization for creating 3D models

While both roles involve 3D skills, a Freelance Character Rigger specializes in creating the skeletons and controls that animate characters, whereas a Freelance 3D Modeler focuses on building the visual 3D assets. They often collaborate but require different technical expertise and tools.

More about Freelance Character Rigger jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Character Rigger jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Character Rigger job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Character Rigger jobs? The most popular types of Character Rigger jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Character Rigger jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Character Rigger jobs include:
Freelance Experience Designer

Freelance Experience Designer

Future Colossal

New York, NY

Contractor

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Future Colossal is looking to hire freelance Experience Designers to support upcoming immersive installations, interactive experiences, and brand activations. We have immediate project needs and are prioritizing candidates with current availability, while also remaining open to connecting with Designers for future freelance opportunities.

This role is best suited for an experienced designer with strong graphic design and UX capabilities who can think through both the visual direction and the user/audience experience.

Requirements

Qualified applicants should have proven experience designing for experiential, interactive, or brand-focused projects.

Relevant experience should include one or more of the following:

  • Drawing / Illustration
  • UI / UX Design
  • 2D compositing - Photoshop / Illustrator
  • 3D Modeling / Animation
  • 3D Character design / Rigging
  • Unity 3D / Level Design
  • Motion Graphics / Video Editing
  • Concepting Abilities / Visual Storytelling

Benefits

This is a project-based contract position.

Please submit your resume and portfolio for freelance position consideration. A cover letter is optional.

About Us:

We are Future Colossal, an experiential innovation lab based in NYC and Atlanta. We explore and create new technologies, constantly innovating to build immersive spaces, both physical & virtual, that are memorable, playful, & interact with the viewer. On any given day we may be working on VR, AR, Mixed Reality, physical installations, or creating a new experience that doesnt fit any conventional norms. We display our installations throughout the world at brand events, digital out-of-home media, trade shows, technology events, festivals, live events, permanent installations, and museum/gallery exhibitions - and have clients across a wide variety of industries. We are fast-paced, constantly solving new challenges, and are always looking towards the future.