Linton joined Marilyn Manson in 1996, first appearing with the band at Nothing Records' "A Night of Nothing" showcase that was held in 1996 at Irving Plaza in New York City.

Linton contributed to all but four of the tracks on the band's 1998 release Mechanical Animals.

In July 1998, he left Marilyn Manson, explaining that his departure was the result of his desire to "expand on my own music rather than spending the next 18 months on a tour bus or plane" and described the split as "amicable", despite later animosity with the frontman.

[1] In an interview in Guitar World, Linton stated that being in Marilyn Manson had opened new doors and new opportunities in music.

Linton departed from the band before the Mechanical Animals supporting tour began.