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Remote Maya Character Rigger Jobs in Manhattan, NY

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Remote Maya Character Rigger information

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$15

$28

$40

How much do remote maya character rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for remote maya character rigger 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 a remote Maya character rigger?

A Remote Maya Character Rigger is a digital artist who specializes in creating the skeletal and movement systems (rigs) for 3D characters using Autodesk Maya, while working from a remote location. Their primary role is to build controls and deformers that animators use to pose and animate characters in films, games, or other media. Working remotely, they collaborate with animators, modelers, and technical directors via online tools to ensure the rigs are functional, flexible, and meet project requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a remote Maya character rigger?

To thrive as a Remote Maya Character Rigger, you need expertise in 3D character rigging, strong knowledge of anatomy and animation principles, and proficiency with Autodesk Maya. Familiarity with scripting languages like Python or MEL, as well as experience using version control systems, are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective remote communication set top candidates apart in this role. These skills ensure efficient creation of flexible, animation-ready rigs and smooth collaboration with distributed teams.

What are some common challenges faced by remote Maya character riggers, and how can they be overcome?

Remote Maya Character Riggers often face challenges related to communication and file management, as collaborative feedback and asset sharing are crucial for successful rigging. Staying organized with version control tools, maintaining clear documentation, and participating in regular video meetings can help bridge the gap. Additionally, having a reliable internet connection and being proactive in seeking feedback ensures smooth collaboration with animators and other team members.

What is the difference between Remote Maya Character Rigger vs Remote 3D Modeler?

AspectRemote Maya Character RiggerRemote 3D Modeler
Required SkillsRigging, Maya, character setupModeling, texturing, sculpting
Work EnvironmentAnimation studios, VFX companies, gamingAnimation studios, VFX, gaming
Common CertificationsAutodesk Maya certifications, 3D animation courses3D modeling certifications, software-specific training
Industry UsageCharacter animation, rigging pipelinesAsset creation, environment modeling

While both roles work within the 3D industry and often use Maya, a Remote Maya Character Rigger specializes in creating skeletons and controls for characters to enable animation. In contrast, a Remote 3D Modeler focuses on building detailed models and assets. Understanding these differences helps employers find the right talent for specific project needs.

How to rig a character model in Maya?

To rig a character model in Maya, start by creating a skeleton with joints aligned to the character's anatomy, then bind the skin to the skeleton using smooth skin or rigid binding. Next, add controls such as IK handles and control curves to facilitate animation, and weight paint to ensure proper deformation. Proficiency in Maya's rigging tools and understanding of anatomy are essential for effective rigging workflows.

Is being a remote Maya character rigger a good career?

A remote Maya character rigger is a specialized role in the animation and VFX industry that involves creating and setting up character rigs for animation using Autodesk Maya. It offers opportunities for flexible work arrangements and can be a stable career path with demand in film, gaming, and advertising industries, especially for those with strong technical skills and experience with rigging tools. However, career growth depends on skill development, portfolio quality, and industry demand for 3D character animation expertise.

What are popular job titles related to Remote Maya Character Rigger jobs in Manhattan, NY?

For Remote Maya Character Rigger jobs in Manhattan, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Remote Maya Character Rigger jobs in Manhattan, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Remote Maya Character Rigger jobs in Manhattan, NY are:

What cities near Manhattan, NY are hiring for Remote Maya Character Rigger jobs?

Cities near Manhattan, NY with the most Remote Maya Character Rigger job openings:

Remote Maya Character Rigger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Remote Maya Character Rigger job openings in Manhattan, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,722 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Senior Gameplay Animator

Half Mermaid Productions

Brooklyn, NY • On-site, Remote

$80K - $100K/yr

Contractor

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Work With Us on Project D████
Job Description
We are looking for an experienced and talented Senior Gameplay Animator to join the development effort on our exciting new game "Project D."
The project is a third person horror game with experimental narrative, a return to the genre that our director, Sam Barlow, previously explored with Silent Hill: Shattered Memories. Candidates with experience of shipping a third person Unreal title on console are preferred. We're combining AAA experience with indie agility to deliver a big, ambitious game and are assembling a small team to make it happen.
This is a long term contract position on a remote team. Candidates in European timezones are preferred. Our studio is based in Brooklyn, NY and occasional travel to New York City may be required.
Applicants from traditionally marginalized identities within the game industry are highly encouraged to apply. Half Mermaid Productions does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status.
To apply, please use our Job Application form. Do not email your application, it will not be reviewed if it is not submitted using the Job Application form.
If you have any questions or encounter any issues using our job application form, please email jobs@halfmermaid.co.
Responsibilities
  • Create animations for both grounded, real world human characters and inhuman characters alike
  • Take animations from design spec through key pose to finished animation, creating responsive but authentic motion
  • Collaborate with other departments to implement animations in engine

Skills
Required Skills:
  • Have shipped a character-based game on console
  • High level understanding of combat and grapple animations
  • Fluency in Maya and Unreal Engine 5
  • Strong communication skills, contributing to the productivity and success of working in a remote team environment
  • An appreciation for narrative and psychological horror

Nice-to-Have Skills:
  • Experience working with MGear
  • Proficiency in body and facial rigging
  • Experience with motion capture pipelines and interest in cutting edge technologies to reduce cost and effort for performance capture

Apply