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Per Diem Character Rigging Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

COGSWELL COLLEGE LLC

Adjunct Faculty DAA

San Jose, CA · On-site

$3.0K - $4.5K/mo

Character Rigging - emphasis on character rigging techniques: joints, surface binding, articulation ... Teach several classes per semester * Collaborate with department faculty in curriculum ...

ACE

Construction Safety Manager

Hemet, CA · On-site

$80K - $130K/yr

Audit fall protection, confined space, crane, rigging, welding, excavation, and heavy equipment ... Daily meal per diem Minimum Qualifications * 5+ years of construction safety experience

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Per Diem Character Rigging information

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a per diem character rigger?

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.

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

The most popular types of Character Rigging jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Per Diem Character Rigging jobs in California?

For Per Diem Character Rigging jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Per Diem Character Rigging jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Per Diem Character Rigging jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Per Diem Character Rigging jobs?

Cities in California with the most Per Diem Character Rigging job openings:

Per Diem Character Rigging jobs near you

Senior Technical Artist (Rigger) NBA 2K

Visual Concepts

Novato, CA • On-site

$54 - $75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

At Visual Concepts, we believe great games are made by diverse and empowered teams with a shared passion for play. As one of the world's top game development studios, we have shipped over 100 multi-sku titles to critical acclaim and commercial success. Our teams are independent and entrepreneurial. Our studios in Novato, Irvine, Budapest, Shanghai, Austin, Boise, Seoul, and Parksville, Canada are committed to artistry and technical innovation, offering top candidates the opportunity to learn and grow with some of the smartest and most creative minds in the industry.
The Team:
The NBA Tech Art team is a diverse group of dedicated Technical Artists that perform a wide variety of tasks. We write and maintain tools for the art department, rig the characters, props, and clothing, and do a lot of problem solving.
What We Need:
The Novato team is looking for an expert character rigging artist (temporary) familiar with body and face rigging to work closely with the art team. This role reports to the Lead Technical Artist.
What You Will Do:
  • Update our character rigs to improve deformation and more accurately simulate human anatomy
  • Create math node networks to make new connections for our body and face rigs
  • Implement blendshapes and corrective shapes into our rigs with the support of the character team
  • Create clean skinweight and blendweight maps
  • Write Python code to automate tasks, create procedural setups, and improve workflow efficiency
  • Diagnose, debug, and resolve character rigging related errors across tools and the game
  • Collaborate with a team of other technical artists to support art teams directly
  • Work closely with engineers and collaborate with multiple art departments to address feedback notes and make art asset requests
  • Contribute to documentation, workflows, and pipeline improvements that scale across the team
Who Will Be A Great Fit:
  • Strong expertise in Autodesk Maya
  • Strong understanding of human anatomy and deformation
  • Working knowledge of Scripting in Python/PyMel
  • Familiar with Facial Action Coding System (FACS) based rigs
  • Familiar with joint placement and designing skeleton setups
  • Experience in creating character rigs that are optimized for games
  • Knowledge of good topology and proper edge-flow to create natural deformation
  • Excellent problem-solving skills
  • Love for video games (not just ours!)
Nice To Have:
  • Working with NgSkinTools for weight painting
  • Familiar creating UIs with Qt
  • Experience with version control (Perforce)
  • Experience creating jiggle joints or other dynamic simulation setups
  • Programming using Maya Python API

US (All States except for WA)
The pay range for this position in California at the start of employment is expected to be between $54 - $75 per hour. The pay range for this position in New York at the start of employment is expected to be between $48 - $68 per hour. The pay range for this position in New Jersey at the start of employment is expected to be between $48 - $68 per hour. The pay range for this position in Maryland at the start of employment is expected to be between $48 - $68 per hour.The pay range for this position in Colorado at the start of employment is expected to be between $48 - $68 per hour. However, base pay offered is based on market location, and may vary further depending on individualized factors for job candidates, such as job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and other objective business considerations.
Subject to those same considerations, the total compensation package for employees in regular roles may also include other elements, including a bonus and/or equity awards, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, provided that temporary or intern roles will not be eligible for many of these payments or benefits. Details of participation in compensation and benefit plans (if applicable) will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an "at-will position" and the company reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation or benefit program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.
US (Washington State)
The pay range for this position in Washington at the start of employment is expected to be between $54 - $75 per hour. However, base pay offered is based on market location, and may vary further depending on individualized factors for job candidates, such as job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and other objective business considerations. Subject to those same considerations, the total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, including a bonus and/or equity awards and eligibility to participate in our 401(K) plan and Employee Stock Purchase Program.
Regular, full-time employees are also eligible for a range of benefits at the Company, including: medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance coverage; 14 paid holidays per calendar year; paid vacation time per calendar year (ranging from 15 to 25 days) or eligibility to participate in the Company's discretionary time off program; up to 10 paid sick days per calendar year; paid parental and compassionate leave; wellbeing programs for mental health and other wellness support; family planning support through Maven; commuter benefits; and reimbursements for fitness-related expenses.
If hired, employee will be in an "at-will position" and the company reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation or benefit program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.
Canada
The pay range for this position in British Columbia at the start of employment is expected to be between CAD - $47 - $67 per hour. However, base pay offered is based on market location, and may vary further depending on individualized factors for job candidates, such as job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and other objective business considerations.
Subject to those same considerations, the total compensation package for employees in regular roles may also include other elements, including a bonus and/or equity awards, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, provided that temporary or intern roles will not be eligible for many of these payments or benefits. Details of participation in compensation and benefit plans (if applicable) will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired the company reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation or benefit program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.
To learn more about Visual Concepts and our studio locations, check out our website at www.vcentertainment.com

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