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Mocap Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

2K

Technical Stage Manager

Petaluma, CA · On-site

The 2K Mocap team - an efficient workhorse that produces motion capture, audio, and video assets for our developers and clients. We work in a world-class 50,000 square foot facility with 4 stages, a ...

2K

Technical Stage Manager

Petaluma, CA

The 2K Mocap team - an efficient workhorse that produces motion capture, audio, and video assets for our developers and clients. We work in a world-class 50,000 square foot facility with 4 stages, a ...

2K

Manager, HRBP & Labor Relations

Petaluma, CA · On-site

You will be the primary HR point of contact for our unionized MoCap workforce and the go-to resource for CBA interpretation and compliance across the organization. But this is a full HRBP role, not a ...

2K

Manager, HRBP & Labor Relations

Petaluma, CA · Hybrid

You will be the primary HR point of contact for our unionized MoCap workforce and the go-to resource for CBA interpretation and compliance across the organization. But this is a full HRBP role, not a ...

Spellbrush

3D Game Programmer (Unity)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

You're good at 3D character animation Bonus if you have used mocap and understand the mocap workflow at a studio. Bonus for having your assets on the Unity store. You're excited about the potential ...

Foundation Robotics

Head of Comms

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Balance content virality with the deeper technical narrative (VLA, navigation, mocap, MkII) * Able to refine narrative aimed at the SF technical crowd, investors, and talent while also branching out ...

Cloud Chamber

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA · On-site

$124K - $142K/yr

Create gameplay, AI, and scripted animation that matches the visual style of the game, using both keyframe and augmented mocap techniques. * Work closely with programmers and designers to support a ...

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Mocap information

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$16

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$91

How much do mocap jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for mocap in California is $50.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.16 and $69.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mocap job?

Mocap jobs refer to positions involved with motion capture technology, which is used to record and translate the movement of people or objects to digital models. These roles can include motion capture actors, technicians, animators, and data processors. Mocap professionals work in industries like video games, film, animation, and virtual reality to create realistic character movements and performances. Their work is essential for bringing digital characters to life with natural and believable motion.

What are some common challenges faced by motion capture professionals during a production, and how can they be addressed?

Motion capture professionals often encounter challenges such as managing technical glitches with equipment, ensuring accurate marker placement on actors, and adapting to last-minute changes in choreography or direction. Working closely with animators, directors, and technical staff is crucial to quickly troubleshoot issues and maintain smooth workflows. Clear communication and a strong understanding of both the creative and technical aspects of mocap help professionals anticipate problems and implement effective solutions, ensuring high-quality data capture throughout the project.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a motion capture technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Motion Capture (Mocap) Technician, you need a solid understanding of animation principles, digital content creation, and typically a degree in animation, computer graphics, or a related field. Familiarity with mocap hardware, software like Vicon or MotionBuilder, and video editing tools is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are key soft skills for collaborating with actors and production teams. These competencies ensure high-quality data capture, efficient workflows, and seamless integration of mocap assets into animation projects.

What is the difference between Mocap vs Motion Capture Technician?

AspectMocapMotion Capture Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a background in animation, computer science, or related fields; certifications in motion capture technology are commonRequires similar technical skills, often with certifications in motion capture systems and equipment handling
Work EnvironmentWorks in studios or on location with motion capture suits and equipmentOperates and maintains motion capture systems, troubleshooting hardware and software issues
Industry UsageUsed in film, video games, and VR for capturing movement dataSupports the setup, calibration, and operation of motion capture systems in production environments

The main difference is that Mocap refers broadly to the process of capturing movement data, often performed by specialists or artists, while a Motion Capture Technician focuses specifically on operating and maintaining the equipment involved in the process. Both roles require technical knowledge and work in similar environments, but the technician role emphasizes system management and troubleshooting.

How much do mocap people make?

Motion capture (mocap) performers typically earn between $20 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, project scope, and union status. Salaries can range from around $40,000 to over $100,000 annually for full-time roles, especially with specialized skills and equipment knowledge.

How to get a career in motion capture?

To pursue a career in motion capture, develop skills in 3D animation, programming, or related fields, and gain experience with mocap equipment and software such as Vicon or OptiTrack. Building a portfolio and networking within the industry can also improve job prospects, often requiring a background in visual effects, gaming, or film production. Certifications or training programs in motion capture technology can further enhance employability.

What are popular job titles related to Mocap jobs in California?

For Mocap jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Mocap jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Mocap jobs in California are:

Mocap jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mocap job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 11% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 88% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,648 per year, or $50.8 per hour.

Technical Stage Manager

2K

Petaluma, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Who We Are
2K is headquartered in Novato, California and is a wholly owned label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO). Founded in 2005, 2K Games is a global video game company, publishing titles developed by some of the most influential game development studios in the world. Our studios responsible for developing 2K's portfolio of world-class games across multiple platforms, include Visual Concepts, Firaxis, Hangar 13, CatDaddy, Cloud Chamber, 31st Union, HB Studios, and 2K SportsLab. Our portfolio of titles is expanding due to our global strategic plan, building and acquiring exciting studios whose content continues to inspire all of us! 2K publishes titles in today's most popular gaming genres, including sports, shooters, action, role-playing, strategy, casual, and family entertainment.
Our team of engineers, marketers, artists, writers, data scientists, producers, thinkers and doers, are the professional publishing stewards of 2K's portfolio currently includes several AAA, sports and entertainment brands, including global powerhouse NBA® 2K, renowned BioShock®, Borderlands®, Mafia, Sid Meier's Civilization® and XCOM® brands; popular WWE® 2K and WWE® SuperCard franchises, TopSpin 2K25, as well as the critically and commercially acclaimed PGA TOUR® 2K
At 2K, we pride ourselves on creating an inclusive work environment, which means encouraging our teams to Come as You Are and do your best work! We encourage ALL applicants to explore our global positions, even if they don't meet every requirement for the role. If you're interested in the job and think you have what it takes to work at 2K, we encourage you to apply!
The 2K Mocap team - an efficient workhorse that produces motion capture, audio, and video assets for our developers and clients. We work in a world-class 50,000 square foot facility with 4 stages, a head scanner, and a body scanner. We take great pride in our ability to capture, clean, solve, retarget, and deliver truly remarkable amounts of data at the highest quality. We love the art and technology of motion capture and have a lot of fun, all while having a true team spirit.
We foster an environment based on honesty and integrity; being capable in oneself as well as having the ability to pick one another up. Succeeding together is the source of our strength.
What We NeedA dynamic individual dedicated to solving technical problems on our mocap stages and leading all teams at 2k Mocap in technical development. 2k Mocap Tech is a small and agile team which covers a very broad area of knowledge, ranging from QCing and processing mocap data to software development. Our bread and butter is QT based Python programs for automation, but we also write C++ video tools specific tools for various Autodesk software APIs, manage a MSSQL database, maintain a fleet of Audio/Video/Mocap hardware and software, and the list goes on. Seasoned professionals of the mocap industry will understand.
This role requires you to work onsite in our Petaluma, CA Mocap studio office location.
What You'll DoAs the Technical Stage Manager you will be tasked with leading in the development of the latest in Motion Capture technology, but also continuously expanding your knowledge of programing, audio/video production, automation technology, etc. You will also be tasked with leading a team of talented and motivated individuals passionate about the technical art of mocap and tool development. Needless to say, you will learn a lot from us, and we hope to learn a lot from you. You will also work closely with our production, shop, stage, and operations at 2k Mocap, ensuring that all hardware and software is functional and up to date and the studio is smoothly humming along.|
What Will Make You A Great Fit
  • Experience leading and organizing a technical team of 5 or more people.
  • Experience solving complex technical problems under pressure.
  • Experience designing large mocap camera layouts, focusing and aiming cameras, and troubleshooting mocap systems.
  • Experience using Motionbuilder, Maya, Shogun, Motive, and Unreal Engine, as well as their associated APIs.
  • Basic understanding of Python application development.
  • The ability and desire to learn things you probably have never even thought you would ever need to know or care about.
  • The ability and desire to work well with a team that loves to share ideas, debate, and innovate at a furious pace.

What Would Be Nice
  • Experience using Giant Mocap System and Nuance.
  • Experience with hardware development or low level C programming for hardware/software interfaces.
  • Knowledge of Python and C++ based QT applications.
  • Basic understanding of a game production pipeline.
  • Basic SQL query writing and understanding of database functionality.
  • Basic understanding of audio/video formats and frame accurate audio/video processing.

The successful candidate will oversee positions that are subject to a collective bargaining agreement between 2K and IATSE.
As an equal opportunity employer, we are committed to ensuring that qualified individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform their essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us if you need reasonable accommodation.
Please note that 2K Games and its studios never uses instant messaging apps or personal email accounts to contact prospective employees or conduct interviews and when emailing, only use 2K.com accounts.
The pay range for this position in California at the start of employment is expected to be between $123,000 and $160,000 per year. 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. Ontario only: The use of Artificial Intelligence is not being used to screen candidates.
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