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Full Time Animation Rigging Jobs in Manhattan, NY

Full Time Animation Rigging information

See Manhattan, NY salary details

$15

$28

$40

How much do full time animation rigging jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time animation rigging in Manhattan, NY is $28.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.48 and $32.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is full time animation rigging?

Full time animation rigging is a specialized position in the animation and visual effects industries where an individual works exclusively on creating the digital skeletons and control systems (rigs) that animators use to bring characters and objects to life. Rigging artists design these systems to allow for natural movement and expression, ensuring that models can be animated efficiently and realistically. This role often involves close collaboration with modelers, animators, and technical directors, and requires a strong understanding of anatomy, motion, and 3D software tools. Full time rigging artists are typically employed at animation studios, game development companies, or VFX houses.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time animation rigger?

To thrive as a Full Time Animation Rigger, you need a solid understanding of anatomy, movement, and 3D modeling, typically supported by a degree in animation, computer graphics, or a related field. Proficiency with rigging tools and software such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, and scripting languages like Python or MEL is usually required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with animators and troubleshoot complex rigging challenges. These skills ensure that animated characters and objects move realistically and efficiently throughout the production pipeline.

What are some common challenges faced by animation rigging artists in a full-time role, and how can they be addressed?

Full-time animation rigging artists often encounter challenges such as balancing the technical requirements of rigs with the creative needs of animators, managing tight production deadlines, and maintaining compatibility across various animation software. Effective communication with animators and modelers is key to ensuring rigs meet both functional and artistic expectations. Continuous learning and staying updated on industry-standard tools, like Maya or Blender, can also help address technical hurdles and improve workflow efficiency.

What is the difference between Full Time Animation Rigging vs Full Time Character Animator?

AspectFull Time Animation RiggingFull Time Character Animator
Required SkillsRigging software, technical skills, anatomy knowledgeAnimation software, storytelling, character performance
Work EnvironmentStudio, post-production, VFX companiesAnimation studios, film, TV, gaming
Common CertificationsTechnical courses in rigging, 3D modelingAnimation courses, portfolio showcase

Full Time Animation Rigging focuses on creating the digital skeletons and controls for characters, enabling animators to bring characters to life. In contrast, Full Time Character Animators work on bringing those characters to life through performance and movement. Both roles often collaborate closely but require different skill sets and focus areas within the animation pipeline.

What are popular job titles related to Full Time Animation Rigging jobs in Manhattan, NY?

For Full Time Animation Rigging jobs in Manhattan, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Full Time Animation Rigging jobs in Manhattan, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Full Time Animation Rigging jobs in Manhattan, NY are:

Infographic showing various Full Time Animation Rigging job openings in Manhattan, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,722 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Customer Success Manager

Carlost Inc.

New York, NY • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

High Moon Studios is seeking a talented and self-directed Technical Animator who can join for a 12-month temporary assignment.  The candidate must be passionate about making great games, and must be a strong problem-solver and effective communicator.    

Responsibilities:  

  • Creation of prototype and production animation content.
  • Work with the animation lead on tool, system and game play prototypes.
  • Collaborate with the Tech Art Team in the development tools that support the animation pipeline.
  • Collaborate with Design, Engineering in the development of in-game animation systems.
  • Troubleshoot and consistently present solutions to technical issues related to animations.
  • Roll out production ready rigs/tools/ systems to the animation team.
  • Provide desk side support for the animation team - helping to resolve technical issues.
  • Meets project deadlines / milestones, as set by Project Leads.

Requirements:  

  • Exceptional communication and organizational skills.
  • Must have the desire to create great games.
  • Understanding of animation principals which can be clearly displayed in your demo reel.
  • Thorough knowledge of Maya and other animation software.
  • Strong knowledge of Maya character rigging.
  • 3+ years’ experience working as a technical animator on shipped titles. 
  • Solid understanding of object oriented code design in languages such as python and C#.
  • Experience working with game engine animation systems.
  • Good knowledge of Motion Capture techniques.

Bonus Qualifications:  

  • Solid understanding of human and animal anatomy.
  • Scripting in MEL. 

About Us

World class games start with world class talent!  This is a unique time in Activision’s history – and one of the most exciting opportunities to join us! Activision Blizzard, headquartered in Santa Monica, CA, is the premier worldwide publisher of interactive entertainment software like Call of Duty, Destiny and the Blizzard Entertainment Franchises.

High Moon Studios

Founded in 2002, High Moon Studios is an award-winning studio that’s developed for blockbuster franchises like Call of Duty and Transformers. We are 100 people strong, located in the always-sunny beachside city of Carlsbad, California. 

Our goal is simple: make game experiences that kick ass and blow minds.  High Moon Studios is led by award winning veterans and a crack production staff that have over 200 years of combined development experience.   We work hard.  We play hard.  It’s time to add world class talent as we partner with Bungie to work on their ground-breaking Destiny Franchise.

Employment Type: Full-Time