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1St Assistant Camera Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sila Services

Camera Tech / Sewer Sales

Stoneham, MA · On-site

$40/hr

People First * Customer Excellence * Integrity Always * Results-Driven * Community-Centered * Fun ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

Sila Services

Camera Tech / Sewer Sales

Stoneham, MA · On-site

$40/hr

People First * Customer Excellence * Integrity Always * Results-Driven * Community-Centered * Fun ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

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1St Assistant Camera information

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How much do 1st assistant camera jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for 1st assistant camera in the United States is $19.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by a 1st Assistant Camera on set, and how can they be managed?

A 1st Assistant Camera (1st AC) often faces challenges such as maintaining precise focus during complex shots, adapting quickly to changes in lighting or blocking, and effectively communicating with the camera team and other departments. To manage these challenges, strong technical skills, attention to detail, and proactive problem-solving are essential. Building a good rapport with the Director of Photography and Camera Operator can also help ensure smooth workflow and address any issues swiftly on set.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 1st Assistant Camera, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 1st Assistant Camera, you need a solid understanding of camera systems, lens mechanics, and focus pulling, often gained through hands-on experience or film courses. Familiarity with digital cinema cameras, wireless follow focus systems, and video assist technology is essential. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to work well under pressure are vital soft skills in this role. These skills ensure precise focus, smooth workflow, and successful collaboration with the camera team, which are critical for producing high-quality visual content.

What is the difference between 1St Assistant Camera vs 2Nd Assistant Camera?

Aspect1St Assistant Camera2Nd Assistant Camera
CredentialsExperience in camera operation, certifications often preferredLess experience required, training provided
Work EnvironmentWorks closely with the Director of Photography, manages camera equipmentAssists the 1st AC, handles clapperboard and loading film or media
ResponsibilitiesFocus pulling, equipment maintenance, setupLoading media, slate operation, assisting with equipment

The 1st Assistant Camera and 2nd Assistant Camera roles are both essential in film production. The 1st AC primarily manages camera focus, equipment, and technical setup, requiring more experience and certifications. The 2nd AC supports the 1st AC by handling media loading and slate operations. Both roles work in similar environments and are crucial for smooth camera operations on set.

What does a 1st Assistant Camera do on a film set?

A 1st Assistant Camera, often called a focus puller, is responsible for maintaining sharp focus on the subject during filming. They work closely with the Director of Photography and camera operator to ensure the camera is correctly set up and that all shots are in focus. The 1st AC also manages camera equipment, changes lenses, marks actors' positions, and keeps the camera clean and functioning. Their role is vital to the technical quality of a film or television production.
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1St Assistant Camera jobs near you
Infographic showing various 1St Assistant Camera job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,170 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Camera Operator (Livestream & Live Production) - LA

Upright Citizens Brigade

Los Angeles, CA

$25/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Company Description

The Upright Citizens Brigade is home for all things comedy. Whether you're interested in writing, performing, becoming a stronger public speaker, or just love seeing comedy, UCB has you covered! Our highly trained faculty represents the best writers and performers working in comedy today. The Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre was founded by Matt Besser, Amy Poehler, Ian Roberts, and Matt Walsh in 1999 and operates Theaters and Training Centers in New York & Los Angeles with Austin and Pittsburgh on its way.

Job Description

The Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB) Theatre is seeking experienced freelance Camera Operators to join our production team in Los Angeles and New York. This role is vital to the success of our digital initiatives, capturing high-energy live comedy for real-time livestreams and high-quality archival footage.

Operators will work within a multi-cam environment to deliver dynamic visual storytelling that translates the live theater experience to a digital audience.

Role Details

  • Employment Type: Freelance / Contract

  • Location: Los Angeles, CA 

  • Schedule: Variable; requires evening and weekend availability for show coverage

  • Reporting to: Executive Director / Venue Coordinator

  • $25/hr

Key Responsibilities

  • Live Camera Operation: Operate the Panasonic AG-CX350 as a handheld / mobile camera during live comedy performances, staying nimble and responsive from the first set to the final bow.

  • Active Listening to apply contextual composition while following fast-paced improvisational and scripted comedy.

  • Collaborative Live-Switching: Work in coordination with both the Tech Booth Operator and Live-switcher to provide usable, high-quality shots for real-time cutting and streaming to platforms like YouTube and Vimeo.

  • Assist in the deployment of specialized camera rigs, including camera setups for audience capture or unique show-specific needs like top-down kitchen rigs.

  • Technical Maintenance: Ensure the theater cameras and associated gear are calibrated and ready for use prior to showtime.

Qualifications

  • Proven track record of operating cameras in a live event environment (comedy, theater, or music preferred).

  • Technical fluency with professional HD cameras and live-switching workflows.

  • A strong understanding of comedic timing and framing to anticipate performer movement and punchlines.

  • Adaptability: Ability to stay focused and professional in a high-pressure, live-to-air environment with minimal oversight.

  • Excellent communication skills for working alongside Technical Operators, Technical Leads, Event Staff, and performers.

Additional Information

Preferred Experience

  • Familiarity with the Panasonic AG-CX350 - our primary freemoving camera for live performances. Experience with this model is a plus, but not required.

  • Experience troubleshooting HDMI wireless transmission issues in live settings.

  • 1+ year of on-set camera operation with solid command of core videography fundamentals (ISO, f-stop, shutter speed, etc.).

  • Familiarity with OBS and/or other livestreaming protocols for YouTube and other digital platforms.

To Apply

Please submit:

  • Resume

  • Demo reel or links to live production work

    • Note: File uploads limited to 2 MB per file. If you have larger files, please share a link to a digital storage folder in your application/CV

  • Available start date

- UCB is an equal opportunity employer.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Apply