ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Motion Capture Animation Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Naughty Dog

Cinematics Editor

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$36.25 - $54.32/hr

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMotion Capture Animation JobsMotion Capture Animation Jobs in California

Motion Capture Animation information

See California salary details

$10

$38

$69

How much do motion capture animation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 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 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.

How to get a job in motion capture?

To get a job in motion capture, candidates typically need a background in animation, computer graphics, or related fields, along with skills in 3D modeling and familiarity with motion capture software such as Vicon or OptiTrack. Building a strong portfolio demonstrating experience with motion capture data and understanding of human anatomy can improve job prospects. Internships or entry-level positions in animation studios or VFX companies can also provide valuable experience and industry connections.

Will AI replace motion capture?

AI is increasingly used to enhance motion capture processes by automating data cleanup and improving animation accuracy, but it is unlikely to fully replace traditional motion capture roles. Skilled professionals are still needed to operate equipment, interpret data, and refine animations, especially in complex or high-quality productions. Combining AI tools with human expertise remains essential in the field of motion capture animation.

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 jobs pay 700 a day?

In motion capture animation, highly experienced professionals such as lead animators or specialized technical directors can earn around $700 per day, especially for high-profile projects or freelance work. These roles often require advanced skills in animation software, industry experience, and sometimes certification, with pay rates varying based on project scope and client budgets.

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 actors typically earn between $20 and $50 per hour, with experienced professionals or those working on high-profile projects earning higher rates. Salaries can also vary based on union membership, project scope, and location, with some actors earning annual salaries in the range of $50,000 to $100,000 or more.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 10% As Needed, 60% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 69% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 28% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,900 per year, or $38.9 per hour.
Senior Full Stack Developer

Senior Full Stack Developer

Rockstar Games

Carlsbad, CA

Other

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

At Rockstar Games, we create world-class entertainment experiences. 

Become part of a team working on some of the most rewarding, large-scale creative projects to be found in any entertainment medium - all within an inclusive, highly-motivated environment where you can learn and collaborate with some of the most talented people in the industry.

Rockstar Games is on the lookout for a passionate Senior Full Stack Developer to join our Performance Capture Tracking team. You will be responsible for our performance capture and production web applications used by our teams worldwide.  

This is a full-time, in-office position based out of Rockstar's new state-of-the-art game development studio in Carlsbad, CA. 

WHAT WE DO
  • We develop and maintain internal web applications to improve and standardize production workflows.
  • We help diagnose and troubleshoot unexpected issues that arise in our web applications and relevant tools that integrate with our applications.
  • We monitor and optimize web applications and databases to iterate on performance.
  • We collaborate with other departments and stakeholders to enhance application functionality.
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Define objectives and key results and translate them into clear technical roadmaps.
  • Collaborate with Production to plan features and schedule initiatives.
  • Work closely with teams across Performance Capture, Animation, R&D and Tech Art to align systems architecture.
  • Provide technical mentorship and help the team address complex development challenges.
  • Contribute directly to codebases across Websites, APIs, and Databases.
  • Ensure systems are reliable, maintainable, and meet performance benchmarks.
REQUIREMENTS
  • 7+ years of professional web development experience.
  • Strong expertise in C#, .NET, and SQL for building scalable systems.
  • Experience with modern JavaScript frameworks such as React.
  • Established mentoring skills with track record of building and leveling up strong team members.
  • Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Comfortable writing and consuming REST APIs.
  • Familiarity with Agile development practices.
  • Experience using version control systems such as GitHub.
PLUSES

Please note that these are desirable skills and are not required to apply for the position.

  • Experience with Python, Next.js, or Kafka.
  • Familiarity with CI/CD tools like TeamCity or Jenkins.
  • Experience writing unit tests and improving legacy code.
  • Experience using Postman, Bruno, or similar API testing tools.
  • Familiarity with MongoDB or the Elastic Stack.
  • Experience or knowledge of Motion Capture/Film Production.
  • Passion for Rockstar Games and our titles.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONHOW TO APPLY

Please apply with a resume and cover letter demonstrating how you meet the skills above. If we would like to move forward with your application, a Rockstar recruiter will reach out to you to explain next steps and guide you through the process.

Rockstar is committed to creating a work environment that promotes equal opportunity, dignity and respect. In line with this commitment, Rockstar will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified job applicants with disabilities during the recruitment process in order for such applicants to be considered for the position for which they are applying, as well as to qualified employees to enable them to perform the essential functions of their roles. If you need more information about Rockstar's reasonable accommodation policies or process, or need to request an accommodation, please notify your recruiter during the interview process.                             

If you've got the right skills for the job, we want to hear from you. We encourage applications from all suitable candidates regardless of age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, belief, race, or any other protected category.

Apply