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Motion Capture Animation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

OptiTrack

Technical Writer

Corvallis, OR · On-site

Experience with motion capture, animation, virtual production, robotics, biomechanics, or related industries. * Experience with 3D applications such as Maya, MotionBuilder, Blender, Unreal Engine, or ...

OptiTrack

Technical Writer

Denver, CO · On-site

Experience with motion capture, animation, virtual production, robotics, biomechanics, or related industries. * Experience with 3D applications such as Maya, MotionBuilder, Blender, Unreal Engine, or ...

OptiTrack

Technical Writer

Seattle, WA · On-site

Experience with motion capture, animation, virtual production, robotics, biomechanics, or related industries. * Experience with 3D applications such as Maya, MotionBuilder, Blender, Unreal Engine, or ...

OptiTrack

Technical Writer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Experience with motion capture, animation, virtual production, robotics, biomechanics, or related industries. * Experience with 3D applications such as Maya, MotionBuilder, Blender, Unreal Engine, or ...

2K

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA

$124K - $142K/yr

Utilize motion capture data and hand-keyed facial animation techniques for realism. * Engage in research, gather reference materials, and document findings to share with the team, aiding in animation ...

Cloud Chamber

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA · On-site

$124K - $142K/yr

Utilize motion capture data and hand-keyed facial animation techniques for realism. * Engage in research, gather reference materials, and document findings to share with the team, aiding in animation ...

PUBG Madison

Senior Animator

Madison, WI · On-site +1

$106K - $121K/yr

Experience utilizing and cleaning motion capture data. * Understanding of rigging and technical animation. * Experience designing state machines and animation systems. * Experience working on games ...

Cloud Chamber

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA

$124K - $142K/yr

Utilize motion capture data and hand-keyed facial animation techniques for realism. * Engage in research, gather reference materials, and document findings to share with the team, aiding in animation ...

2K

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA · On-site

$124K - $142K/yr

Utilize motion capture data and hand-keyed facial animation techniques for realism. * Engage in research, gather reference materials, and document findings to share with the team, aiding in animation ...

Apptronik

Software Engineer - Human Motion Data

Austin, TX

$113K - $136K/yr

Design, build, and maintain end-to-end motion data pipelines, integrating diverse sources such as motion capture (mocap), teleoperation , and synthetic generation using diffusion models, animation ...

Apptronik

Software Engineer - Human Motion Data

Austin, TX · On-site

$113K - $136K/yr

Design, build, and maintain end-to-end motion data pipelines, integrating diverse sources such as motion capture (mocap), teleoperation , and synthetic generation using diffusion models, animation ...

Virtuos

Management Trainee

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

... and motion-capture animation. As a member studio of Virtuos, CounterPunch can provide a full range of services in 3D art and game development services to our clients, on top of our animation ...

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Motion Capture Animation information

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$10

$39

$70

How much do motion capture animation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for motion capture animation in the United States is $39.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.88 and $63.94 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.
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Motion Capture Animation jobs near you
Technical Writer

Technical Writer

OptiTrack

Corvallis, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

About OptiTrack
OptiTrack is a global leader in 3D motion tracking solutions, delivering high-performance motion capture systems for a wide range of applications including virtual production, biomechanics, robotics, and game development. Our technology powers innovation at some of the world's leading research institutions, studios, and companies.
We are looking for a talented and motivated Technical Writer to join our Engineering team in Corvallis, Oregon. This is an opportunity to work at the cutting edge of motion tracking, serving as the bridge between our complex engineering innovations and the users who bring them to life. You will be instrumental in ensuring our users have the clarity and technical guidance needed to master our systems, transforming sophisticated workflows into intuitive, world-class documentation.
Job Summary:
The Technical Writer is responsible for creating, maintaining, and improving documentation for OptiTrack products and internal operations. Working closely with engineering, support, QA, product management, and marketing teams, this role develops clear, accurate, and effective documentation that helps customers successfully deploy and use OptiTrack products while supporting internal knowledge sharing and process improvement.
Essential Functions:
  • Serve as the primary technical writer and documentation owner for OptiTrack products.
  • Create, maintain, and improve customer-facing documentation including user guides, knowledge base articles, release notes, installation guides, troubleshooting resources, SDK/API documentation, and developer documentation.
  • Create and maintain internal documentation including support procedures, engineering processes, training materials, and organizational knowledge resources.
  • Collaborate with engineering and support teams to document new products, features, workflows, and best practices.
  • Gather information from subject matter experts and translate complex technical concepts into clear and concise documentation.
  • Organize, maintain, and improve documentation repositories and workflows using tools such as GitBook, Confluence, and Jira.
  • Review and update existing documentation to ensure accuracy, consistency, and alignment with product releases.
  • Ensure all documentation meets internal security standards and data privacy requirements.
  • Contribute to documentation standards, style guides, and knowledge management practices.
  • Create supporting visual content such as screenshots, diagrams, tutorials, and instructional videos when appropriate.
  • Occasional travel may be required.

Requirements
Qualifications:
  • 4+ years of technical writing or related experience.
  • Strong written communication skills and extreme attention to detail.
  • Experience documenting software, hardware, or other complex technical products.
  • Ability to work effectively with engineers and technical subject matter experts.
  • Proficiency with documentation and collaboration tools (e.g., GitBook, Confluence, Jira).
  • Proficiency in version control systems (Git) and collaborative documentation platforms.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Desired Experience:
  • Familiarity with OptiTrack products and motion capture workflows.
  • Experience with motion capture, animation, virtual production, robotics, biomechanics, or related industries.
  • Experience with 3D applications such as Maya, MotionBuilder, Blender, Unreal Engine, or Unity.
  • Experience creating video tutorials, training content, or other multimedia documentation.
  • Experience with video editing and content creation tools (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, Camtasia, After Effects).

Physical Requirements:
This position operates in a professional office environment and requires the ability to remain in a stationary position for extended periods while using standard office equipment. The role involves repetitive movement of wrists, hands, and fingers for keyboarding and requires the visual acuity to review detailed technical diagrams and software code.
Benefits
All benefits start on first day of employment!
    • 75% employer-paid medical for employee. Family coverage also included.
    • 100% employer paid dental, and vision for employee and dependents
    • 100% employer paid long-term, short-term disability, and life insurance policy
    • 401k Match, if you're contributing 5% we match 4%. 100% vested immediately.
    • 10 paid holidays
    • Starting at 15 days paid PTO (inclusive of sick and vacation time) annually
    • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
    • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

  • EEOC Statement:
  • OptiTrack is an equal opportunity employer, we believe in fostering a culture of equality, diversity, and inclusivity. Our commitment to this goal is clearly expressed in our zero-tolerance policy for discrimination and harassment of any kind, including on the basis of race, color, sex, age, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. Our hiring practices ensure that decisions are based solely on qualifications, merit, and current business needs, while extending to all aspects of our operations - from recruitment and promotion to layoff and recall, to leave of absence, compensation, benefits, and training. We are committed to remaining a drug free workplace

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