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Freelance Rigging Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

This freelance role is built for a well-rounded modeler who moves fluidly between realistic and ... Knowledge of avatar rigging or custom character controllers in Roblox * Prior experience creating ...

Roblox 3D Artist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

$30 - $45/hr

This freelance role is built for a well-rounded modeler who moves fluidly between realistic and ... Knowledge of avatar rigging or custom character controllers in Roblox * Prior experience creating ...

Freelance Rigging information

See California salary details

$14

$47

$130

How much do freelance rigging jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance rigging in California is $47.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.94 and $60.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects do freelance riggers typically work on?

Freelance riggers often work on a wide range of projects, from live event setups like concerts and theater productions to industrial installations and trade shows. Project requirements can vary greatly depending on factors such as load size, venue type, and safety regulations, making flexibility and adaptability essential traits for success. Rigging freelancers are commonly responsible for assessing venues, planning safe rigging points, assembling and disassembling structures, and collaborating with technical crews or clients for smooth operations. Each assignment may have unique challenges, such as working at height, managing tight deadlines, or accommodating last-minute changes. This variety provides a dynamic and rewarding work environment while developing a broad skillset and industry network.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance rigger?

To thrive as a Freelance Rigging professional, you need strong expertise in mechanical and structural rigging principles, safety protocols, and hands-on experience with ropes, cables, and hoisting equipment. Familiarity with industry-standard rigging hardware, load calculators, and safety certifications such as OSHA or ETCP is commonly expected. Strong communication, problem-solving, and time management skills help freelancers succeed in dynamic project environments. These abilities ensure safe, efficient rigging solutions and foster reliable client relationships in diverse work settings.

What is a freelance rigger?

A Freelance Rigging job involves creating and setting up the skeleton or rig of 3D models for animation in films, games, or other media. Rigging artists ensure that characters or objects can move naturally by building control systems that animators use. As a freelancer, rigging professionals work on a project basis for various clients, offering flexibility in workload and specialization. Strong knowledge of software like Maya, Blender, or Houdini is essential. Freelance riggers often collaborate with animators, modelers, and game developers to bring digital assets to life.

What are the most commonly searched types of Rigging jobs in California?

The most popular types of Rigging jobs in California are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Rigging jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Rigging jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Freelance Rigging jobs?

Cities in California with the most Freelance Rigging job openings:

Infographic showing various Freelance Rigging job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Part Time, and 31% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $97,931 per year, or $47.1 per hour.

Roblox Environmental Artist

Sawhorse Productions

Los Angeles, CA • On-site, Remote

$30 - $45/hr

Contractor

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Sawhorse Productions is a Los Angeles based, Award winning full-service creative studio turning ideas into unforgettable experiences through captivating branded content, viral social moments, and groundbreaking interactive experiences. We partner with industry-leading brands, artists, and studios such as Walmart, Google, NBCUniversal, Fanatics, Toyota, Pepsi and Alo to deliver industry-leading, innovative multi-platform content. At Sawhorse, we believe in fostering a culture of collaboration, creativity, and relentless excellence while shaping the future of digital storytelling.
Our releases include: [Roblox, Fortnite, Rec Room, ZEPETO]

  • Roblox: How To Train Your Dragon
  • Roblox: Wicked RP
  • Roblox: Walmart Discovered - 2024 ADDY Winner
  • Roblox: Fenty - 2024 Webby winner
  • Roblox: Alo Sanctuary
  • Roblox: Beetlejuice Escape the Afterlife
  • Roblox: Lamborghini Lanzador Lab - 2024 Telly Winner
  • Roblox: Elton John's 'Beyond The Yellow Brick Road'
  • Roblox: Olivia Rodrigo 
  • Roblox: Fashion Klossette
  • Gen AI applet: Coca - Cola Cappy
  • And numerous digital fashion releases on UGC Gaming platforms - Sawhorse Productions

We're looking for a detail-oriented and creative Roblox Environmental Artist to help craft immersive 3D worlds for platform-leading UGC games. This freelance role is ideal for someone who's passionate about world-building, experienced with Roblox Studio, and excited to design visually compelling environments that enhance gameplay and storytelling.

This is a Freelance role and can be based in the Los Angeles office or remote. This position is generally operating during PST core hours M-F 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM.

Requirements

  • Environmental Design: Conceptualize and design visually rich 3D environments that align with the game's aesthetic and narrative goals.
  • World Building: Create immersive, seamless game worlds with strong environmental storytelling and cohesive gameplay flow.
  • Asset Creation: Collaborate with our 3D team to build landscapes, props, structures, and environmental assets optimized for Roblox.
  • Optimization: Ensure all assets are performance-friendly and optimized for streaming and gameplay efficiency.
  • Creative Collaboration: Work closely with Art Directors, Technical Artists, and Game Designers to maintain consistency in style, tone, and gameplay interaction.
  • Client-Facing Communication: Engage with clients and stakeholders to interpret briefs and incorporate feedback directly into creative output.
  • Feedback & Iteration: Participate in reviews, contribute to brainstorming sessions, and iterate quickly based on team and client feedback.
Qualifications

A strong candidate for this position should have the following qualities:

  • Experience: 4+ years in 3D environment design, with a strong portfolio showing completed Roblox projects.
  • Roblox Studio Expertise: Proficient with Roblox Studio and building workflows. Familiarity with optimization techniques (StreamingEnabled, low-poly design, etc.).
  • 3D Software Proficiency: Skilled in tools like Blender, Maya, or equivalent software-must be able to export FBX files compatible with Roblox.
  • Technical Understanding: Solid grasp of lighting, composition, and layout. Ability to troubleshoot integration or performance issues.
  • Gameplay Mindset: Understands how visual design impacts player experience and gameplay flow.
  • Communication: Strong verbal and written communicator, comfortable with presenting in meetings and collaborating in cross-functional teams.
Nice To Have's
  • Experience with Substance Painter or Designer for texture work
  • Familiarity with lighting techniques for cinematic environments
  • Knowledge of avatar rigging or custom character controllers in Roblox
  • Prior experience creating plugins or custom tools for Roblox development
  • Understanding of additional engines like Unity or Unreal

Benefits

$30 - $45 per hour

EEO Statement

Sawhorse Productions is an equal employment opportunity employer. All employees and applicants are evaluated on the basis of their qualifications, consistent with applicable state and federal laws. In addition, Sawhorse Productions will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. Sawhorse Productions will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and federal law.