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Motion Capture Animation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ZeniMax Media

Animator (First-Person)

Rockville, MD · On-site

$70K - $155K/yr

You have experience working with motion capture in either Maya or Motion Builder. * You have experience animating creatures. * You have animation graph experience. Salary Range Animator (First-Person ...

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 ...

OptiTrack

Machine Learning & Operations Engineer

Atlanta, GA · Remote

$71K - $96K/yr

OptiTrack is a global leader in motion capture technology, delivering precision tracking solutions for animation, robotics, virtual production, biomechanics, and industrial applications. About the ...

OptiTrack

Machine Learning & Operations Engineer

Atlanta, GA · Remote

$66K - $90K/yr

OptiTrack is a global leader in motion capture technology, delivering precision tracking solutions for animation, robotics, virtual production, biomechanics, and industrial applications. About the ...

OptiTrack

Machine Learning & Operations Engineer

Miami, FL · Remote

$66K - $89K/yr

OptiTrack is a global leader in motion capture technology, delivering precision tracking solutions for animation, robotics, virtual production, biomechanics, and industrial applications. About the ...

OptiTrack

Machine Learning & Operations Engineer

Arlington, VA · Remote

$80K - $108K/yr

OptiTrack is a global leader in motion capture technology, delivering precision tracking solutions for animation, robotics, virtual production, biomechanics, and industrial applications. About the ...

OptiTrack

Machine Learning & Operations Engineer

Durham, NC · Remote

$71K - $96K/yr

OptiTrack is a global leader in motion capture technology, delivering precision tracking solutions for animation, robotics, virtual production, biomechanics, and industrial applications. About the ...

OptiTrack

Machine Learning & Operations Engineer

Durham, NC · Remote

$67K - $90K/yr

OptiTrack is a global leader in motion capture technology, delivering precision tracking solutions for animation, robotics, virtual production, biomechanics, and industrial applications. About the ...

OptiTrack

Machine Learning & Operations Engineer

Durham, NC · Remote

$67K - $90K/yr

OptiTrack is a global leader in motion capture technology, delivering precision tracking solutions for animation, robotics, virtual production, biomechanics, and industrial applications. About the ...

OptiTrack

Machine Learning & Operations Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site +1

$66K - $90K/yr

OptiTrack is a global leader in motion capture technology, delivering precision tracking solutions for animation, robotics, virtual production, biomechanics, and industrial applications. About the ...

OptiTrack

Machine Learning & Operations Engineer

Atlanta, GA · Remote

$66K - $90K/yr

OptiTrack is a global leader in motion capture technology, delivering precision tracking solutions for animation, robotics, virtual production, biomechanics, and industrial applications. About the ...

OptiTrack

Machine Learning & Operations Engineer

Miami, FL · Remote

$71K - $96K/yr

OptiTrack is a global leader in motion capture technology, delivering precision tracking solutions for animation, robotics, virtual production, biomechanics, and industrial applications. About the ...

OptiTrack

Machine Learning & Operations Engineer

Arlington, VA · Remote

$80K - $108K/yr

OptiTrack is a global leader in motion capture technology, delivering precision tracking solutions for animation, robotics, virtual production, biomechanics, and industrial applications. About the ...

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All JobsMotion Capture Animation Jobs

Motion Capture Animation information

See salary details

$10

$39

$70

How much do motion capture animation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 24, 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
Senior Full Stack Developer

Senior Full Stack Developer

Rockstar Games

Carlsbad, CA

Other

Posted 9 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