... rigging, and beyond. * Design for the Moment: Produce fast-turnaround graphics for the occasional ... We don't need a fine artist, but we love a creator who can draw. * A social first mindset: You ...
... rigging, and beyond. * Design for the Moment: Produce fast-turnaround graphics for the occasional ... We don't need a fine artist, but we love a creator who can draw. * A social first mindset: You ...
Motion Graphic Designer
Washington, DC · On-site
... rigging, and beyond. * Design for the Moment: Produce fast-turnaround graphics for the occasional ... We don't need a fine artist, but we love a creator who can draw. * A social first mindset: You ...
Motion Graphic Designer
Washington, DC · On-site
... rigging, and beyond. * Design for the Moment: Produce fast-turnaround graphics for the occasional ... We don't need a fine artist, but we love a creator who can draw. * A social first mindset: You ...
Locum 3D Rigging Artist information
See Reston, VA salary details
$20.51 - $25.12
8% of jobs
$28.15 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$25.12 - $29.74
25% of jobs
$29.74 - $34.35
14% of jobs
The median wage is $35.63 / hr.
$34.35 - $38.97
9% of jobs
$38.97 - $43.58
6% of jobs
$43.58 - $48.20
8% of jobs
$49.35 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$48.20 - $52.81
14% of jobs
$52.81 - $57.43
2% of jobs
$57.43 - $62.04
3% of jobs
$62.04 - $66.66
6% of jobs
$66.66 - $71.27
3% of jobs
$20
$41
$71
How much do locum 3d rigging artist jobs pay per hour?
As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for locum 3d rigging artist in Reston, VA is $41.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.27 and $50.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Locum 3D Rigging Artist, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Locum 3D Rigging Artist, you need expertise in anatomy, character rigging, and deformation principles, usually demonstrated by a degree in animation, computer graphics, or related experience. Proficiency in industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, and scripting languages like Python or MEL is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with animators and modelers to deliver flexible, high-quality rigs. These skills and qualifications ensure efficient workflow, well-animated characters, and seamless integration with production teams.
What are the typical challenges a Locum 3D Rigging Artist might face when joining a new project mid-production?
As a Locum 3D Rigging Artist stepping into an ongoing project, you may encounter challenges such as quickly adapting to existing workflows, understanding proprietary rigging systems, and aligning with the animation team's preferences. There may be a need to rapidly familiarize yourself with the project's style guides and technical requirements. Effective communication with animators, modelers, and technical directors is crucial to ensure your rigs integrate smoothly and support the desired character performances.
What is a Locum 3D Rigging Artist?
A Locum 3D Rigging Artist is a temporary or freelance professional who specializes in creating digital skeletons and controls for 3D models, allowing them to move realistically in animation and visual effects projects. They are often brought in to assist with intensive projects or to cover staff absences. Their work is essential in preparing characters, creatures, or objects for animation by building rigs that animators can use to create lifelike movements. Locum rigging artists need strong technical and artistic skills to ensure seamless integration with animation pipelines. They may work in industries such as film, television, video games, or advertising.
What is the difference between Locum 3D Rigging Artist vs 3D Rigging Artist?
| Aspect | Locum 3D Rigging Artist | 3D Rigging Artist |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Typically requires a portfolio, relevant 3D rigging certifications, and industry experience | Same as locum, often with additional specialization or full-time experience |
| Work Environment | Contract-based, temporary positions often on a project basis | Full-time or freelance roles within studios or production companies |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Used by studios needing short-term expertise or filling gaps between staff | Employers seeking ongoing or project-specific rigging work |
The main difference is that a Locum 3D Rigging Artist works on temporary, contract basis to fill short-term needs, while a 3D Rigging Artist may work full-time or freelance on ongoing projects. Both roles require similar skills and credentials, but the locum position offers more flexibility and short-term engagement.
What are the most commonly searched types of 3D Rigging Artist jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of 3D Rigging Artist jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Locum 3D Rigging Artist jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Locum 3D Rigging Artist job openings:
Job description
Description
NJI is an agency where creativity knows no borders. We navigate the complexities of public affairs, charting new paths across industries and continents to deliver work that sparks conversation, shifts perception, and inspires action.
The Role
We're seeking a Video and Motion Graphic Designer who leads with curiosity - someone who does their best work at the intersection of design and motion, and is eager to grow their craft across a wide range of formats and clients.
This role is your entry point into ambitious, multidisciplinary work: animate interactive presentation screens seen on UNGA's stage, bring kinetic logos to life, support social and reel cuts for events, and help our team tell stories that move people - literally.
Note: This is a hybrid position that requires being in our Georgetown office three days per week on a flexible schedule. Our team meets for lunch every Wednesday, and we encourage crew members to join us in person for two additional days of their choosing. NJI does not currently offer relocation fees.
What You'll Do
- Set Things in Motion: Support campaign and brand work by bringing static concepts to life - lower-thirds, motion graphic packages, animated social content, character rigging, and beyond.
- Design for the Moment: Produce fast-turnaround graphics for the occasional live events, where speed and precision have to coexist.
- Storyboard to Screen: Develop storyboards, illustrations, animations, and video graphics that carry a clear message and hold up against brand standards at every frame.
- Create Graphics Package: Own concept and design on graphic packages meant to move,
- Anchor in Excellence: Maintain visual consistency and quality across deliverables, with a sharp eye for detail and a commitment to craft at every frame.
- Collaborate Globally: Work closely with a dynamic team to execute concepts aligned with established client brand systems, contributing to projects from brief through delivery.
What You'll Bring
- Motion Foundation: Proficiency in After Effects is a must. Premier Pro and basic compositing skills are a strong plus. You know how to build a clean, well-organized project file.
- Illustration & Design Sensibility: You have a working eye for typography, layout, and color. Comfort with icon creation and character and scene illustrations makes you a stronger, more versatile candidate. We don't need a fine artist, but we love a creator who can draw.
- A social first mindset: You understand how platforms communicate, have a keen eye for what's on trend and most importantly what makes users engage with content in a meaningful way.
- Tenure: 2 to 3 years experience as a motion designer.
- Portfolio: Your reel or portfolio demonstrates motion range - not perfection, but range. Show us what you're capable of and where you're headed.
- Attention to Detail: A sharp eye for consistency, catching the smallest errors before they take flight.
- Adaptability: The ability to pivot with agility and balance efficiency with top-tier quality.
- Own the System, Not Just the File: Stay current on motion trends, tools, and techniques - and use that knowledge to build reusable animation toolkits (type systems, transitions, lower-third packages, templates) that raise the creative floor across every campaign.
- BONUS: Are you dabbling in 3D, or emerging AI tools? We value those with wide creative curiosities and encourage passion projects.
Diversity Commitment. Authenticity is the foundation of boundless creativity. Rooted in diverse life experiences, our team challenges the status quo through our work and culture every day. We are committed to sustaining and improving NJI's inclusive workplace by actively expanding the diversity of our team. We encourage people from underrepresented groups to apply. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please contact info@njimedia.com.We are unable to offer work visa sponsorship at this time.
Cover Letter. We think of cover letters more in the old-fashioned pen pal sense. Putting pen to page to share your greatest thoughts and interests. So, keep the job summary and skills list in your resume and write something that personally expresses more about who you are and what draws you to NJI and this role.
About Nji Media
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Company size
11 - 50 Employees
Headquarters location
Alexandria, VA, US
Year founded
2007