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Trainee 3D Rigging Artist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... 3D Artist (Generalist) who can model across a wide range of subject matter, from characters and ... Knowledge of avatar rigging or custom character controllers in Roblox * Prior experience creating ...

Roblox 3D Artist

Los Angeles, CA · Remote

$30 - $45/hr

... 3D Artist (Generalist) who can model across a wide range of subject matter, from characters and ... Knowledge of avatar rigging or custom character controllers in Roblox * Prior experience creating ...

Roblox 3D Artist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

$30 - $45/hr

... 3D Artist (Generalist) who can model across a wide range of subject matter, from characters and ... Knowledge of avatar rigging or custom character controllers in Roblox * Prior experience creating ...

As a 3D Character Artist , you will play a key role in crafting high-quality characters that bring ... Ensure proper topology, rigging, and skinning for characters to meet animation and gameplay ...

The lead also coaches junior artists, collaborates with other departments, and supports production ... An understanding of rigs and typical rigging set-ups, animation pipelines and transferring data ...

OR

$126K - $151K/yr

General knowledge of the 3D Realtime Art Pipeline. Including new AI art tools and traditional 3D ... rigging/skinning, VFX nodes, UI Design, creating and modifying shaders. Advanced knowledge of ...

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Trainee 3D Rigging Artist information

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How much do trainee 3d rigging artist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee 3d rigging artist in the United States is $39.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.16 and $48.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by a trainee 3D rigging artist when working on their first projects?

As a Trainee 3D Rigging Artist, you may find it challenging to balance technical precision with artistic intent, especially when creating rigs that are both functional and intuitive for animators. Understanding the nuances of different character anatomies and adapting rigs to meet varied animation requirements can be complex. Additionally, you’ll likely need to troubleshoot unexpected deformations and collaborate closely with modelers and animators to ensure the rig meets production needs. Seeking feedback, practicing regularly, and learning from more experienced team members can help you overcome these initial hurdles.

What does a trainee 3D rigging artist do?

A Trainee 3D Rigging Artist is responsible for creating the digital skeletons and control systems that allow 3D models to move realistically in animation or visual effects projects. They work under the guidance of experienced rigging artists to learn industry-standard tools and techniques, such as setting up joints, skinning, and building control rigs. This position is often entry-level and serves as a foundation for more advanced rigging roles in animation, film, or gaming studios.

What is the difference between Trainee 3D Rigging Artist vs Junior 3D Rigging Artist?

AspectTrainee 3D Rigging ArtistJunior 3D Rigging Artist
CredentialsBasic knowledge, often in training or courseworkSome experience, portfolio development
Work EnvironmentLearning-focused, supervised projectsIndependent tasks, collaborative teams
Industry UsageEntry-level, training programsEarly career, supporting senior artists

The Trainee 3D Rigging Artist is typically in training, focusing on learning foundational skills, while the Junior 3D Rigging Artist has some experience and handles more independent tasks. Both roles are essential in the early stages of a rigging career, with the trainee focusing on skill development and the junior taking on real-world projects under supervision.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trainee 3D rigging artist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trainee 3D Rigging Artist, you need a basic understanding of 3D modeling, anatomy, and animation principles, often supported by a degree or coursework in animation, computer graphics, or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, and knowledge of scripting languages like Python are typically expected. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help you collaborate effectively with animators and other artists. These competencies ensure that characters and objects move realistically and efficiently within a production pipeline.
More about Trainee 3D Rigging Artist jobs
What cities are hiring for Trainee 3D Rigging Artist jobs? Cities with the most Trainee 3D Rigging Artist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of 3D Rigging Artist jobs? The most popular types of 3D Rigging Artist jobs are:
What states have the most Trainee 3D Rigging Artist jobs? States with the most job openings for Trainee 3D Rigging Artist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Trainee 3D Rigging Artist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,070 per year, or $39.5 per hour.

$30 - $45/hr

Contractor

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Sawhorse Productions is a Los Angeles based, Award winning full-service creative studio turning ideas into unforgettable experiences through captivating branded content, viral social moments, and groundbreaking interactive experiences. We partner with industry-leading brands, artists, and studios such as Walmart, Google, NBCUniversal, Fanatics, Toyota, Pepsi and Alo to deliver industry-leading, innovative multi-platform content. At Sawhorse, we believe in fostering a culture of collaboration, creativity, and relentless excellence while shaping the future of digital storytelling.

Our releases include: [Roblox, Fortnite, Rec Room, ZEPETO]

  • Roblox: How To Train Your Dragon
  • Roblox: Wicked RP
  • Roblox: Walmart Discovered - 2024 ADDY Winner
  • Roblox: Fenty - 2024 Webby winner
  • Roblox: Alo Sanctuary
  • Roblox: Beetlejuice Escape the Afterlife
  • Roblox: Lamborghini Lanzador Lab - 2024 Telly Winner
  • Roblox: Elton John's 'Beyond The Yellow Brick Road'
  • Roblox: Olivia Rodrigo 
  • Roblox: Fashion Klossette
  • Gen AI applet: Coca - Cola Cappy
  • And numerous digital fashion releases on UGC Gaming platforms - Sawhorse Productions

We're looking for a versatile, self-sufficient, and highly capable 3D Artist (Generalist) who can model across a wide range of subject matter, from characters and vehicles to props and full environments, for platform-leading UGC games and branded experiences. This freelance role is built for a well-rounded modeler who moves fluidly between realistic and stylized work, thrives on variety, and can carry an asset from concept through to final in-engine delivery. We need a confident self-starter, ready to hit the ground running and keep things moving at pace.

This is an hourly freelance position, with expected availability during PST core hours M-F 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM.

Requirements

  • Versatile 3D Modeling: Model a broad range of assets, from characters and vehicles to props and full environments, across both realistic and stylized art directions.
  • End-to-End Asset Creation: Take models from concept and blockout through to final, game-ready delivery, with clean topology, UVs, and textures optimized for Roblox.
  • Optimization: Ensure all assets are performance-friendly and optimized for streaming and gameplay efficiency across a range of devices.
  • Self-Sufficient Delivery: Own your workload and deliver quality assets at a strong pace with minimal oversight, keeping projects moving without hand-holding.
  • Creative Collaboration: Work closely with Art Directors, Technical Artists, and Game Designers to maintain consistency in style, tone, and quality across a project.
  • Client-Facing Communication: Engage with clients and stakeholders to interpret briefs and incorporate feedback directly into your work.
  • Feedback & Iteration: Participate in reviews, contribute to brainstorming sessions, and iterate quickly based on team and client feedback.
  • Trend Awareness: Stay ahead of modeling techniques, tools, and styles across UGC gaming to keep Sawhorse's output fresh and competitive.
Qualifications

A strong candidate for this position should have the following qualities:

  • Experience: 3+ years in 3D modeling for games, interactive media, or real-time production environments.
  • Versatile Portfolio: A strong portfolio showing both realistic and stylized work, covering at least two of the following: characters, vehicles, or environments.
  • Roblox Studio Expertise: Proficient with Roblox Studio and building workflows. Familiarity with optimization techniques (StreamingEnabled, low-poly design, etc.).
  • 3D Software Proficiency: Skilled in tools like Blender, Maya, or equivalent software, and able to export FBX files compatible with Roblox.
  • Technical Understanding: Solid grasp of topology, UVs, lighting, composition, and layout, with the ability to troubleshoot integration and performance issues.
  • Gameplay Mindset: Understands how visual design impacts player experience and gameplay flow.
  • Self-Direction: Able to manage your own workload, prioritize effectively, and deliver quality work at a strong pace with minimal supervision.
  • Communication: Strong verbal and written communicator, comfortable with presenting in meetings and collaborating in cross-functional teams.
Nice To Have's
  • Experience with Substance Painter or Designer for texture work
  • Familiarity with lighting techniques for cinematic environments
  • Knowledge of avatar rigging or custom character controllers in Roblox
  • Prior experience creating plugins or custom tools for Roblox development
  • Understanding of additional engines like Unity or Unreal

Benefits

$30 - $45 per hour

EEO Statement

Sawhorse Productions is an equal employment opportunity employer. All employees and applicants are evaluated on the basis of their qualifications, consistent with applicable state and federal laws. In addition, Sawhorse Productions will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. Sawhorse Productions will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and federal law.