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Motion Capture Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Tesla

Data Collection Operator, Optimus

Fremont, CA · On-site

$25.25 - $34.50/hr

Wear motion capture equipment while performing designated movements and actions based on project requirements * Start/stop recording devices and perform minor equipment and software debugging

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Insight Global Healthcare

Data Creator

San Jose, CA · On-site

$30/hr

You will wear company-provided sensor equipment and perform precise movements so they can capture clean motion data. That data helps teach robots how humans move, reach, lift, walk, and interact with ...

New

Figure

Helix AI Engineer, XR

San Jose, CA · On-site

Experience with high-precision motion-capture systems and tracking technologies * Startup experience - you know how to operate with ambiguity and move fast * Bonus: computer vision, robotics, custom ...

Figure

Helix AI Engineer, XR

San Jose, CA

Experience with high-precision motion-capture systems and tracking technologies * Startup experience - you know how to operate with ambiguity and move fast * Bonus: computer vision, robotics, custom ...

Infotech Sourcing

Systems Engineer II

Fremont, CA

... with motion capture, multi-camera systems, time synchronization, robots is a plus - Excellent communication and partnership skills, particularly within production environments where time is the ...

Infotech Sourcing

Systems Engineer II

Fremont, CA · On-site

... with motion capture, multi-camera systems, time synchronization, robots is a plus - Excellent communication and partnership skills, particularly within production environments where time is the ...

Aerotek

Data Creator

San Jose, CA

$30 - $33/hr

A Typical Day Might Include: ✅ Wearing motion-capture equipment and performing natural movements ✅ Helping collect the data used to train next-generation AI systems ✅ Working alongside a team ...

Apple

ML Data - Research Scientist

Cupertino, CA · On-site

... motion capture) and the challenges of establishing ground truth for such data Familiarity with human probing/annotation methods and inter-rater reliability techniques Experience designing data ...

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All JobsMotion Capture JobsMotion Capture Jobs in California

Motion Capture information

See California salary details

$24.5K

$125.2K

$213K

How much do motion capture jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for motion capture in California is $125,154.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,097.00 and $179,198.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by motion capture artists when collaborating with animation and game development teams?

Motion capture artists often encounter challenges in ensuring that captured performances align seamlessly with the creative vision of animation or game development teams. Differences in communication styles and varying technical requirements can sometimes cause misunderstandings or delays during production. To overcome these obstacles, motion capture professionals must be adaptable, actively seek feedback, and remain open to iterative processes. Regular collaboration with animators, directors, and technical staff is crucial for maintaining consistency and achieving high-quality results.

How to get a career in motion capture?

To pursue a career in motion capture, develop skills in 3D animation, programming, or related fields, and gain experience with motion capture hardware and software such as Vicon or OptiTrack. A background in computer science, animation, or biomechanics, along with a portfolio demonstrating relevant work, can improve job prospects. Entry-level roles often require a bachelor's degree and familiarity with industry tools and techniques.

What is a motion capture job?

Motion capture jobs, often shortened to mocap, focus on using a special camera and set of tracking systems to record movement for later animation. In this role, you may help supervise a motion capture project, guide actors, maintain the cameras and other technology, or use captured footage in various ways. Most motion capture jobs focus on television shows, movies, and video games, but companies occasionally use the technology for other purposes as well. These positions normally have regular hours, but employers may occasionally ask you to work overtime to meet deadlines for product releases.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a motion capture specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Motion Capture Specialist, you need a solid understanding of animation principles, human anatomy, and often a background in computer graphics or related fields. Familiarity with motion capture systems (such as Vicon or OptiTrack), 3D animation software (like Maya or MotionBuilder), and sometimes relevant certifications are typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for excelling in this role. These competencies ensure accurate data capture, efficient workflow, and seamless integration of motion capture into animation or visual effects pipelines.

What is the difference between Motion Capture vs 3D Animator?

AspectMotion Capture3D Animator
Required CredentialsOften requires knowledge of motion capture systems, sometimes certifications in motion capture technology or softwareTypically holds a degree in animation, computer graphics, or related fields; certifications in animation software are common
Work EnvironmentWorks in motion capture studios, on-set environments, or post-production facilitiesWorks in animation studios, post-production houses, or freelance settings
Industry UsageUsed primarily in film, gaming, and VR projects to record real actor movementsCreates animated characters and scenes, often based on motion capture data or from scratch

While both roles are integral to digital character creation, motion capture specialists focus on recording real actor movements using specialized equipment, whereas 3D animators craft and refine animated characters and scenes, often utilizing motion capture data as a foundation.

What is motion capture?

Motion capture, often abbreviated as 'mocap,' is a technology used to record the movement of objects or people. In the entertainment industry, it typically involves tracking an actor's movements using sensors or cameras, and then translating those movements onto digital characters in films, video games, or animations. This process allows for highly realistic and expressive character animations. Motion capture is also used in sports, medicine, and robotics to analyze motion and improve performance or research.
More about Motion Capture jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Motion Capture jobs in California?

The most popular types of Motion Capture jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Motion Capture jobs in California?

For Motion Capture jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Motion Capture jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Motion Capture jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Motion Capture jobs?

Cities in California with the most Motion Capture job openings:

Motion Capture jobs near you
Infographic showing various Motion Capture job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 60% In-person, and 40% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $125,154 per year, or $60.2 per hour.

Data Collection Operator, Optimus

Tesla

Fremont, CA • On-site

$25.25 - $34.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Tesla rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 681 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 44 rated automakers

Job description

What to Expect

Tesla is looking for highly motivated and adaptive individuals to support Tesla's data collection team. The primaryobjectivesof this role are to collect data,assistwith engineeringoperations, and report equipment feedback.

The successful candidate for this position must be able to make data driven decisions and be comfortable working in a dynamic& fast pacedwork environment. We are looking for someone with enthusiasm for the field of robotics anda strong desireto contribute to the development of Optimus.Demonstrateabilitytoutilizeprocess improvements, increasing individual and team efficiency.

Shift: 6:00AM - 6:00PM

Week 1: Sunday, Monday, Tuesday

Week 2: Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday

Shift: 6:00PM - 6:00AM

Week 1: Sunday, Monday, Tuesday

Week 2: Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Saturday

What You'll Do

  • Performdata collection tasks such asmanipulation of objects, walk pre-determined routes, followtestingguidelinesand test protocolsatTesla facilities andinpublic environments

  • Wear motion capture equipment while performing designated movements and actions based on project requirements

  • Start/stop recording devices and perform minor equipment and software debugging

  • Provide feedback on the performance of the equipment

  • Analyze and report on data collected during shift

  • Upload data collected andwritedaily reports detailing observations and issues

  • Maintain equipment in safe workingcondition, prioritize safety protocols, and communicate with leadership promptly


What You'll Bring
  • Must be able to walk 7+ hours a day while carrying up to30lbs. ofvarious typesof equipment
  • Height between 5'7" and 6'3" as role requires the use of motion capture equipment
  • Continuous hand/eye coordination and fine manipulation, body coordination, and kinesthetic awareness and ability to walk up/downstairs
  • High attention to detail, ability to follow precise instructions, and basicproficiencywith software for data upload and reporting
  • Ability to perform technical troubleshooting on equipment and willingness to learnnew technologiesquickly
  • Flexibility for weekends and overtime,demonstrateoperational success with minimal supervision
  • Ability to travel up to 25% of the time and daily regional driving

Compensation and Benefits Benefits

Along with competitive pay, as a full-time Tesla employee, you are eligible for the following benefits at day 1 of hire:

  • Medical plans > plan options with $0 payroll deduction
  • Family-building, fertility, adoption and surrogacy benefits
  • Dental (including orthodontic coverage) and vision plans, both have options with a $0 paycheck contribution
  • Company Paid (Health Savings Accounts) HSA Contribution when enrolled in the High-Deductible medical plan with HSA
  • Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • 401(k) with employer match, Employee Stock Purchase Plans, and other financial benefits
  • Company paid Basic Life, AD&D
  • Short-term and long-term disability insurance (90 day waiting period)
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Sick and Vacation time (Flex time for salary positions, Accrued hours for Hourly positions), and Paid Holidays
  • Back-up childcare and parenting support resources
  • Voluntary benefits to include: critical illness, hospital indemnity, accident insurance, theft & legal services, and pet insurance
  • Weight Loss and Tobacco Cessation Programs
  • Tesla Babies program
  • Commuter benefits
  • Employee discounts and perks program
Expected Compensation $25.25 - $34.50/hour + cash and stock awards + benefits

Pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements dependent on the position offered. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.

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