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Remote Maya Character Rigger Jobs in Vancouver, BC

Work closely with the animators and modelers to set up character rigs that will maintain a cohesive ... Rigging experience with Autodesk Maya. * Experience with Python required. * Experience rigging a ...

Remote Maya Character Rigger information

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 Vancouver, BC?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Remote Maya Character Rigger jobs in Vancouver, BC are:

Infographic showing various Remote Maya Character Rigger job openings in Vancouver, BC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Creature Technical Director (Rigging) - Expression of Interest - ILM Vancouver

The Walt Disney Company

Vancouver, BC • On-site, Remote

CA$100K - CA$128K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Walt Disney Company rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 129 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 52 rated entertainment


Job description

Job Posting Title:

Creature Technical Director (Rigging) - Expression of Interest - ILM Vancouver

Req ID:

10155976

Job Description:

This role is considered Hybrid, which means the employee will work 2-3 days onsite at a Company designated location and occasionally from home.

This posting is an opportunity to submit your resume for future consideration; this is not a role that is open at this time. We anticipate this role may be open in the future, but we are not actively hiring for the position. If you would like to be considered for this potential role, please submit your resume. If the role becomes available, you may receive an email or call from a recruiter.

Position Summary

Creature TD Riggers are responsible for rigging and enveloping hero to background creatures, vehicles and props in Maya. They are able to wrangle rigging and creature pipeline issues proficiently under the direction and guidance of their supervisors.

This specific position is for a production that requires experience and proficiency in both realistic and/or toon style animation, where experience working with rigs for an exaggerated cartoon style of animation on animated features, as well as live action creature and character animation will be key to this role.

What You'll Do
  • Hero-creature rigging and enveloping in Maya

  • Troubleshoot creature rigging and pipeline issues for artists in other disciplines

  • Mentor entry level artists

  • Script utilities/tools/plug-ins in Maya

  • Sufficient knowledge of Maya rigging techniques to optimize the performance of rigs

  • Participate in reviews, dailies, and department meetings as required

  • Special projects as necessary

What We're Looking For
  • At least 3 years relevant professional VFX experience and at least a college level diploma in computer graphics, fine arts, design, or photography, or related field; OR, at least 5 years relevant professional VFX experience in lieu of education

  • Experience with hero asset rigging and enveloping in Maya, on realistic VFX and/or toon-style animated feature films

  • Experience in corrective sculpting

  • Knowledge of anatomy and enveloping

  • Positive attitude and team player

  • Passion for the work

  • Good communication skills

  • Proficiency with Linux and expertise with Maya are required

  • Nice to have:

    • Experience setting up and running simulation shot work

    • Experience with Houdini

    • Basic competency in another discipline - Modeling, Texture, TD, Animation

    • Experience with python scripting

As part of your application please submit a demo reel, shot breakdown, or equivalent showcasing your work. A current resume is required.

JoinILM

The hiring range for this position in Vancouver is C$100,300 to C$128,300 per year based on a 40-hour work week. The amount of hours scheduled per week may vary based on business needs. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A full range of medical, financial, and/or other variable pay or benefits, may be offered dependent on the level and position offered.

Job Posting Segment:

ILM Vancouver

Job Posting Primary Business:

ILM Vancouver

Primary Job Posting Category:

Character Simulations - Studios, Rigging - Studios

Employment Type:

Full time

Primary City, State, Region, Postal Code:

Vancouver, BC, Canada

Alternate City, State, Region, Postal Code:

Date Posted:

2026-07-15

What Walt Disney Company employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Walt Disney logo

About Walt Disney

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Disney, we're storytellers. We make the impossible, possible. We do this through utilizing and developing cutting-edge technology and pushing the envelope to bring stories to life through our movies, products, interactive games, parks and resorts, and media networks. Now is your chance to join our talented team that delivers unparalleled creative content to audiences around the world. "We create happiness." That's our motto at Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. And it permeates everything we do. At Disney, you'll help inspire that magic by enabling our teams to push the limits of entertainment and create the never-before-seen!

Industry

Amusement, gambling, and recreation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Burbank, CA, US

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