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Motion Capture Animation Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Evil Eye Pictures

Senior Unreal Animator

San Jose, CA · Remote

$40 - $65/hr

Create final animation for cinematic sequences using both motion capture data and hand-keyed techniques in Unreal * Assemble, clean and augment motion capture for bipedal motion * Ownership of hero ...

Evil Eye Pictures

Senior Unreal Animator

Hayward, CA · Remote

$40 - $65/hr

Create final animation for cinematic sequences using both motion capture data and hand-keyed techniques in Unreal * Assemble, clean and augment motion capture for bipedal motion * Ownership of hero ...

Evil Eye Pictures

Senior Unreal Animator

Fremont, CA · Remote

$40 - $65/hr

Create final animation for cinematic sequences using both motion capture data and hand-keyed techniques in Unreal * Assemble, clean and augment motion capture for bipedal motion * Ownership of hero ...

Evil Eye Pictures

Senior Unreal Animator

Alameda, CA · Remote

$40 - $65/hr

Create final animation for cinematic sequences using both motion capture data and hand-keyed techniques in Unreal * Assemble, clean and augment motion capture for bipedal motion * Ownership of hero ...

Evil Eye Pictures

Senior Unreal Animator

Sonoma, CA · Remote

$40 - $65/hr

Create final animation for cinematic sequences using both motion capture data and hand-keyed techniques in Unreal * Assemble, clean and augment motion capture for bipedal motion * Ownership of hero ...

Evil Eye Pictures

Senior Unreal Animator

Santa Clara, CA · Remote

$40 - $65/hr

Create final animation for cinematic sequences using both motion capture data and hand-keyed techniques in Unreal * Assemble, clean and augment motion capture for bipedal motion * Ownership of hero ...

Evil Eye Pictures

Senior Unreal Animator

Sunnyvale, CA · Remote

$40 - $65/hr

Create final animation for cinematic sequences using both motion capture data and hand-keyed techniques in Unreal * Assemble, clean and augment motion capture for bipedal motion * Ownership of hero ...

Evil Eye Pictures

Senior Unreal Animator

Santa Rosa, CA · Remote

$40 - $65/hr

Create final animation for cinematic sequences using both motion capture data and hand-keyed techniques in Unreal * Assemble, clean and augment motion capture for bipedal motion * Ownership of hero ...

Evil Eye Pictures

Senior Unreal Animator

San Mateo, CA · Remote

$40 - $65/hr

Create final animation for cinematic sequences using both motion capture data and hand-keyed techniques in Unreal * Assemble, clean and augment motion capture for bipedal motion * Ownership of hero ...

Ten4

Senior Gaming Animator

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$129K - $148K/yr

Drive animation performance without pushing out of a believable and realistic style; your hand-keyed work will fit seamlessly with motion capture * Join forces with designers and engineers to create ...

Ten4

Senior Gaming Animator

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$129K - $148K/yr

Drive animation performance without pushing out of a believable and realistic style; your hand-keyed work will fit seamlessly with motion capture * Join forces with designers and engineers to create ...

AGBO

Expression of Interest - Animator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

Strong Camera, Character Animation, and Motion Capture editing skills. * Proficient in animating stylized character animation. * Strong communication skills in client-facing situations, including but ...

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All JobsMotion Capture Animation JobsMotion Capture Animation Jobs in California

Motion Capture Animation information

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How much do motion capture animation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for motion capture animation in California is $38.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.59 and $63.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Motion Capture Animation vs Character Animator?

AspectMotion Capture AnimationCharacter Animator
Required CredentialsOften requires knowledge of motion capture systems, animation software, and sometimes specialized certificationsRequires skills in animation software, storytelling, and character rigging, with some familiarity with motion capture data
Work EnvironmentStudio settings with motion capture suits and equipment, often collaborativeDesktop-based, working with animation software, sometimes in a studio or remote
Industry UsageUsed in film, video games, and VR to create realistic character movementsUsed in film, TV, and game development for character animation and performance

Motion Capture Animation focuses on capturing real actor movements using specialized equipment, translating them into digital animations. Character Animators create performances manually or refine motion capture data to animate characters. While both roles involve character animation, motion capture specialists work primarily with physical data capture, whereas character animators focus on artistic interpretation and manual animation techniques.

Does Disney hire 2D animators?

Disney primarily hires 2D animators for traditional animation projects, especially for legacy and specialized productions. However, the company has shifted focus toward 3D animation and CGI, so opportunities for 2D animation roles are more limited and often involve specialized skills in traditional techniques and software like Toon Boom or Adobe Animate.

How do motion capture animators typically collaborate with directors and actors during a production?

Motion capture animators work closely with directors and actors to ensure movements are accurately captured and match the creative vision of the project. Animators often attend rehearsals, provide feedback on performance capture, and help set up technical equipment. They collaborate with directors to discuss shot composition and storytelling, while guiding actors on how to perform for optimal data capture. This collaborative process ensures that the final animation integrates seamlessly with the project's artistic goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Motion Capture Animator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Motion Capture Animator, you need expertise in animation principles, an understanding of human movement, and a background in computer graphics or a related field. Proficiency with motion capture software (such as Vicon, OptiTrack, or MotionBuilder) and familiarity with 3D animation tools like Maya or Blender is essential. Strong collaboration, attention to detail, and creative problem-solving are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for accurately capturing, refining, and translating real-world performances into compelling digital animations for films, games, and virtual experiences.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A motion capture animator can potentially earn $10,000 or more per month with significant experience, strong technical skills, and a portfolio of high-quality work. Success often depends on freelance opportunities, working with major studios, or owning a business, rather than formal education alone.

What is motion capture animation?

Motion capture animation, often called 'mocap,' is a technique used to record the movements of real actors and translate them into digital character animations. This technology uses specialized suits and sensors to capture an actor's motions, which are then mapped onto 3D models in computer graphics software. It's widely used in film, video games, and virtual reality to create realistic and lifelike character movements. Motion capture helps animators save time and achieve a higher level of realism than manual animation alone.

How much do Mocap actors get paid?

Motion Capture (Mocap) actors typically earn between $20 and $100 per hour, depending on experience, project scope, and union status. Salaries can range from $50,000 to over $150,000 annually for full-time roles, especially for those with specialized skills and certifications in mocap technology and performance capture systems.

How to get a career in motion capture?

To pursue a career in motion capture, develop skills in animation, 3D modeling, and programming, and gain experience with motion capture hardware and software such as Vicon or OptiTrack. A background in computer science, animation, or related fields, along with a strong portfolio and understanding of human movement, can improve job prospects. Internships or entry-level positions in animation studios or game development companies can provide valuable experience.
What are popular job titles related to Motion Capture Animation jobs in California? For Motion Capture Animation jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Motion Capture Animation jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Motion Capture Animation jobs in California are:
Motion Capture Animation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Motion Capture Animation job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,900 per year, or $38.9 per hour.
Senior Unreal Animator

Senior Unreal Animator

Evil Eye Pictures

San Jose, CA • Remote

$40 - $65/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Founded in 2004, Evil Eye Pictures is a collaborative virtual studio bringing together some of the best content creators, innovators and engineers from around the globe. The team is focused on creating immersive, compelling visuals and experiences for the evolving world of real-time, multi-platform entertainment.


Evil Eye was founded by artists to work on high-profile, special projects while maintaining an emphasis on people and a positive, fun work culture.


Senior Unreal Animator (Contract)


Evil Eye Pictures is looking for an accomplished CG Character Animator. The ideal candidate will have minimum 5 years of professional experience in film, television and/or games, and a thorough understanding of the CG animation pipeline. A level of technical knowledge combined with strong creative and visual instincts is critical.


Key Responsibilities:


  • Create final animation for cinematic sequences using both motion capture data and hand-keyed techniques in Unreal
  • Assemble, clean and augment motion capture for bipedal motion
  • Ownership of hero shots through animation blocking, refinement and polish stages


Requirements:


  • Minimum 5 years of professional experience in Animation, Games or Visual Effects
  • Experience keyframing character animation and working with motion capture data
  • Ability to collaborate and take direction from creative leads and the narrative team
  • Ability to work independently, problem solve on the fly, and collaborate efficiently across disciplines in a small, fast moving team
  • Experience with Unreal Engine, Unreal Control Rig and Sequencer


Good to have:


  • Proficiency with Maya
  • Experience using source control such as Perforce or Github
  • Experience rigging
  • Helping develop cinematic pipelines and tools.
  • Python or similar coding skills


Additional Information


  • Portfolio: Please include a link to a reel of your work when applying for this position.
  • Location: This is a remote position supporting our Virtual Studio.
  • Contract Duration: 6/15-7/24 with hold to 8/7


For more information about Evil Eye check out: https://www.evileyepictures.com



CA Pay Transparency Information:

The expected annual base pay range(s) for this position are detailed below. Compensation varies based on a variety of factors, which include (but aren’t limited to) things such as skills and competencies, qualifications, knowledge, and experience. In addition to base pay, most employees are eligible to participate in Evil Eye's benefit plans and discretionary incentive programs (subject to the terms of those plans or programs).


Pay Range: $40 -$65 / hour

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