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Motion Capture Animation Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Chapman University

Student Technical Assistant

Orange, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

Create tutorials, how-to guides, and online videos to help students understand digital motion capture and animation technology. * Provide technical support for software, hardware, and Crestron remote ...

Bonfire Studios

Lead Gameplay Animator

Irvine, CA

Evolving animation systems and workflows, including thoughtful use of motion capture, keyframe techniques, and external partnerships. * Guiding and reviewing external animation partners, maintaining ...

Bonfire Studios

Lead Gameplay Animator

Irvine, CA · On-site +1

Evolving animation systems and workflows, including thoughtful use of motion capture, keyframe techniques, and external partnerships. * Guiding and reviewing external animation partners, maintaining ...

Rockstar Games

Senior Full Stack Developer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Work closely with teams across Performance Capture, Animation, R&D and Tech Art to align systems ... Experience or knowledge of Motion Capture/Film Production. * Passion for Rockstar Games and our ...

Carlost Inc.

Account Manager

Burlingame, CA · On-site

Experience working with game engine animation systems. Good knowledge of Motion Capture techniques. Bonus Qualifications: Solid understanding of human and animal anatomy. Scripting in MEL. About Us ...

Carlost Inc.

Account Manager

Burlingame, CA · On-site

Experience working with game engine animation systems. Good knowledge of Motion Capture techniques. Bonus Qualifications: Solid understanding of human and animal anatomy. Scripting in MEL. About Us ...

Naughty Dog

Cinematics Editor

Santa Monica, CA

Collaborating with the editorial, animation, and production teams to keep scenes moving forward ... Experience editing motion capture footage * Post-production experience with live-action-either ...

Fuser

Brand & Motion Design Intern

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

... that capture Fuser's energy and clarity. You'll collaborate closely with our Head of Creative ... Create short-form videos, animations, and tutorials using Fuser and motion tools * Contribute to ...

Fuser

Brand & Motion Design Intern

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

... that capture Fuser's energy and clarity. You'll collaborate closely with our Head of Creative ... Create short-form videos, animations, and tutorials using Fuser and motion tools * Contribute to ...

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All JobsMotion Capture Animation JobsMotion Capture Animation Jobs in California

Motion Capture Animation information

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$10

$38

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How much do motion capture animation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 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.

How to get a career in motion capture animation?

To pursue a career in motion capture animation, develop skills in 3D modeling, animation, and programming using tools like Maya, Blender, or MotionBuilder. Gaining experience through a relevant degree or certification, building a portfolio, and understanding motion capture hardware and software are essential steps to enter the field.

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?

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 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.
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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,900 per year, or $38.9 per hour.

Student Technical Assistant

Chapman University

Orange, CA • On-site

$16.90/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Chapman University rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

258th of 617 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Student Title Classification Information
Quick Link https://chapman.peopleadmin.com/postings/40419 Job Number SE217424
Position Information
Department or Unit Name Dodge College-Technical Position Headcount 5 Position Title Student Technical Assistant Academic Year Academic Year 2026-2027 Term or Semester All Academic Year Is this Role for an Undergrad or Grad Student? Grad and Undergrad Anticipated Pay Range $16.90 - $16.90 Pay Range Information
Chapman University is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this position. This range takes into account a variety of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. Salary offers are determined based on the final candidate's qualifications and experience, as well as internal equity and other internal factors. The anticipated pay range is not a promise of a particular wage.
On which Campus will this work be done? Orange Approved Supervisor Gamaliel Hernandez Supervisor Email ghernand@chapman.edu
Scheduling

Please use dates within Chapman Academic Calendar
(https://www.chapman.edu/academics/academic-calendar.aspx)

Desired Start Date 08/24/2026 Projected End Date 05/14/2027 Average number of hours per week Up to 19 Hrs
Position Summary Information
Job Description Summary
The Digital Media Arts Department seeks a responsible and self-motivated student assistant to provide technical support in the classroom, suites, and theater. This role is vital in ensuring smooth operations and supporting students and faculty in effectively utilizing digital media and classroom technology.
As a Technical Theater/Classroom Student Assistant, you will operate and maintain equipment, troubleshoot technical issues, assist with software usage, and, when necessary, support the LED wall/motion capture suit workshops.
Responsibilities
  • Be diligent in operating and maintaining Digital Arts Department equipment, including cleaning and troubleshooting.
  • Assist students and faculty in utilizing classroom technology, projection systems, software, and tools like Adobe Creative Suite, Autodesk, Toon Boom, and other digital arts applications.
  • Participate in workshops using the motion capture suit and assist with real-time demonstrations of the LED wall
  • Create tutorials, how-to guides, and online videos to help students understand digital motion capture and animation technology.
  • Provide technical support for software, hardware, and Crestron remote systems in classroom and theater environments.
  • Assist faculty and/or students in connecting laptops and audiovisual peripherals to classroom and theater projection systems.
Required Qualifications
Must have substantial familiarity and moderate technical expertise in digital graphics and animation applications, including Adobe Creative Suite, Autodesk, Toon Boom, and other relevant software. Responsible, self-motivated, and well-organized with the ability to take the initiative in solving technical issues. Possess excellent communication skills, a professional demeanor, and appearance. Must have technical aptitude, strong troubleshooting skills, and a customer service-oriented attitude. Strong teamwork, problem-solving, and creative thinking abilities. A customer service attitude, delivering helpful and efficient support to users. Must be reliable, diligent, and consistent with the given and daily tasks.
Desired Qualifications
Have a strong or have familiarity with hardware and software technology.
Special Instructions to Applicants
Budget Information
Is Federal work-study required? With or Without FWS

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