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Per Diem Character Rigging Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Absurd Ventures

Lead Character Artist

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$170K - $200K/yr

Work closely with rigging, animation, and technical art teams to ensure characters are ready for ... The base pay range for this position is $170,000 to $200,000 per year. Actual compensation is based ...

Absurd Ventures

Lead Character Artist

Santa Monica, CA

$170K - $200K/yr

Work closely with rigging, animation, and technical art teams to ensure characters are ready for ... The base pay range for this position is $170,000 to $200,000 per year. Actual compensation is based ...

Absurd Ventures

Character Technical Artist

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

Support and maintain character pipelines spanning modeling, rigging, skinning, deformation, and ... The base pay range for this position is $130,000 to $165,000 per year. Actual compensation is based ...

2K

Principal Character Technical Artist

San Mateo, CA · On-site +1

$133K - $198K/yr

You will use your mastery of DCC applications, Unreal Engine 5, rigging, and complex character and ... 198,000 per year. However, base pay offered is based on market location, and may vary further ...

2K

Principal Character Technical Artist

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$133K - $198K/yr

You will use your mastery of DCC applications, Unreal Engine 5, rigging, and complex character and ... 198,000 per year. However, base pay offered is based on market location, and may vary further ...

The Hun School of Princeton

Per Diem Nurse

Princeton, NJ · On-site

$38 - $41/hr

The Per Diem Nurse will have the availability to work flexible shift options ranging from four or ... In our mission of educating global citizens with resilient character, we actively seek candidates ...

The Hun School of Princeton

Per Diem Nurse

Princeton, NJ · On-site

$38 - $41/hr

The Per Diem Nurse will have the availability to work flexible shift options ranging from four or ... In our mission of educating global citizens with resilient character, we actively seek candidates ...

The Hun School of Princeton

Per Diem Nurse

Princeton, NJ · On-site

$38 - $41/hr

The Per Diem Nurse will have the availability to work flexible shift options ranging from four or ... In our mission of educating global citizens with resilient character, we actively seek candidates ...

TNT Crane & Rigging

Rigger

Windsor, CO · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

... per diem, and the opportunity to work plenty hours of overtime. We are always looking for ... Assists the crane operator on job tasks during the operation of the crane and provides rigging ...

TNT Crane & Rigging

Rigger

Denver, CO · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

... per diem, and the opportunity to work plenty hours of overtime. We are always looking for ... Assists the crane operator on job tasks during the operation of the crane and provides rigging ...

TNT Crane & Rigging

Rigger

Birmingham, AL

$22.50 - $29/hr

Southway Crane & Rigging Position: Rigger Location: Birmingham Reports to: Branch Manager Southway ... per diem, and the opportunity to work plenty hours of overtime. We are always looking for ...

TNT Crane & Rigging

Rigger

Billings, MT

$23.75 - $30.50/hr

JMS Crane & Rigging Position: Rigger Location: Billings Reports to: Branch Manager JMS is offering ... per diem, and the opportunity to work plenty hours of overtime. We are always looking for ...

TNT Crane & Rigging

Rigger

Billings, MT

$23.75 - $30.50/hr

JMS Crane & Rigging Position: Rigger Location: Billings Reports to: Branch Manager JMS is offering ... per diem, and the opportunity to work plenty hours of overtime. We are always looking for ...

Southway Crane & Rigging

Rigger

Atlanta, GA

$26 - $30/hr

Southway Crane & Rigging Position: Rigger Location: Atlanta Reports to: Branch Manager Southway is ... per diem, and the opportunity to work plenty hours of overtime. We are always looking for ...

TNT Crane & Rigging

Rigger

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Southway Crane & Rigging Position: Rigger Location: Atlanta Reports to: Branch Manager Southway is ... per diem, and the opportunity to work plenty hours of overtime. We are always looking for ...

TNT Crane & Rigging

Rigger

Albuquerque, NM

$20 - $26/hr

... per diem, and the opportunity to work plenty hours of overtime. We are always looking for ... Assists the crane operator on job tasks during the operation of the crane and provides rigging ...

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All JobsPer Diem Character Rigging Jobs

Per Diem Character Rigging information

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$14

$26

$36

How much do per diem character rigging jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for per diem character rigging 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.

How much do character riggers get paid?

Character riggers typically earn between $20 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Per diem riggers may receive daily rates that vary based on the employer and industry standards, often ranging from $150 to $300 per day.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Per Diem Character Rigging Artist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Per Diem Character Rigging Artist, you need a solid understanding of anatomy, kinematics, and 3D modeling, often supported by experience in animation or visual effects. Proficiency with industry-standard software like Autodesk Maya, Blender, or Houdini, along with scripting languages such as Python or MEL, is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication help ensure seamless collaboration with animators and other team members. These skills are crucial for creating flexible, functional rigs that enable realistic character movement and efficient production workflows.

What is the highest paying per diem job?

Per diem character rigging jobs tend to pay higher rates compared to many other freelance or temporary roles, especially for experienced riggers with specialized skills in 3D modeling and animation software like Maya or Blender. The highest-paying positions are often in the entertainment or gaming industries, where rates can range from $50 to over $150 per hour depending on expertise and project scope.

What art-related jobs are about $80,000 a year?

Per Diem character rigging roles in the entertainment industry can pay around $80,000 annually, especially with experience and in high-demand projects. These positions often require strong skills in 3D modeling, animation software like Maya or Blender, and the ability to work on a flexible schedule. Salaries vary based on location, experience, and project scope.

What is the difference between Per Diem Character Rigging vs Per Diem Animation Artist?

AspectPer Diem Character RiggingPer Diem Animation Artist
CredentialsKnowledge of rigging software, 3D modeling, and anatomyProficiency in animation software, storytelling, and timing
Work EnvironmentStudio or remote, focused on rigging characters for animationStudio or remote, focused on creating animated sequences
Industry UsageUsed in game development, film, and VFX for character setupUsed in film, TV, and game projects for bringing characters to life

Per Diem Character Rigging involves preparing and setting up 3D character models for animation, requiring technical rigging skills. Per Diem Animation Artists focus on creating movement and performance in animations. Both roles are essential in the production pipeline but differ in their core responsibilities and skill sets.

What is the highest paying rigger job?

The highest paying rigger jobs are typically in the film, television, or live event industries, where experienced riggers with specialized skills in complex setups and safety certifications can earn higher salaries. Senior riggers or those working on large-scale productions or with advanced equipment tend to command the highest wages, often supplemented by overtime and union benefits.

How does a per diem character rigger typically collaborate with animation and modeling teams on a project?

As a per diem character rigger, you'll often work closely with both animators and modelers to ensure the characters' rigs are functional and meet the project's needs. Communication is key, as you'll need to interpret feedback from animators regarding movement and flexibility, while also coordinating with modelers to address technical requirements or geometry adjustments. Since the role is per diem, you'll be expected to adapt quickly to different pipelines and possibly juggle multiple short-term assignments, making teamwork and flexibility crucial for success.

What is a Per Diem Character Rigger?

A Per Diem Character Rigger is a professional who is hired on a day-to-day basis to create and set up digital skeletons and control systems for 3D characters in animation, film, or video games. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that characters can move realistically and efficiently by constructing rigs that animators can use. Per diem means they work as needed, often on short-term contracts, providing flexibility for both the studio and the artist. This role requires strong technical skills in rigging software and a good understanding of anatomy and animation principles.
More about Per Diem Character Rigging jobs
What cities are hiring for Per Diem Character Rigging jobs? Cities with the most Per Diem Character Rigging job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Character Rigging jobs? The most popular types of Character Rigging jobs are:
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What job categories do people searching Per Diem Character Rigging jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Per Diem Character Rigging jobs are:
Per Diem Character Rigging jobs near you
Infographic showing various Per Diem Character Rigging job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 7% As Needed, 11% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 74% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,114 per year, or $26 per hour.

Lead Character Artist

Absurd Ventures

Santa Monica, CA • On-site

$170K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Summary
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead Character Artist to join our dynamic team. As Lead Character Artist, you will be responsible for creating and overseeing the production of high-quality character assets. You will have a direct impact on the visual identity of our games, bringing characters to life with stunning detail and artistic excellence.
Core Responsibilities
  • Lead the character art team in the creation of high-quality character models.
  • Collaborate with the Art Director to define the visual style of characters.
  • Sculpt, model, and texture characters to meet the artistic and technical requirements of the project.
  • Contribute in planning, organization and prioritization of tasks with Production for internal, OS, and co dev partners.
  • Create and maintain character pipeline documentation for training and onboarding
  • Proactively identify risks in character art production timelines and effectively communicate risks to Production and Directors.
  • Mentor and provide feedback to other character artists.
  • Ensure character assets are optimized for performance and memory usage.
  • Work closely with rigging, animation, and technical art teams to ensure characters are ready for implementation.
  • Stay current with industry trends and techniques in character art.

Core Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts, Game Art, or related field.
  • 7+ years of experience in character art within the video game industry.
  • Strong proficiency in Maya, ZBrush, and Substance Painter.
  • Significant experience in Unreal Engine
  • Excellent understanding of anatomy, form, and silhouette.
  • Experience with PBR and hand-painted texturing workflows.
  • Proven track record of creating high-quality character models for AAA titles.
  • Ability to lead a team and work collaboratively across departments.

Plus if...
  • Experience with character rigging and skinning.
  • Knowledge of Marvelous Designer or similar tools for clothing simulation.
  • Experience with rigid body dynamics and cloth simulation in Unreal Engine
  • Previous work in a leadership role on a major game title.

Description
  • Full-time job with benefits.
  • Role is on-site in Santa Monica, CA.
  • Office is located near downtown Santa Monica - near metro and freeway.

The base pay range for this position is $170,000 to $200,000 per year. Actual compensation is based on market location and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. We also offer a competitive package of benefits including vacation time, sick time, company holidays, parental leave, medical/dental/vision insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, and 401(k) matching to regular full-time employees. Certain roles may also be eligible for bonus and equity.

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