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Boom Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Responds to ground signals to rotate boom, alter angle of boom, reposition crane and raise and ... Crane Operator with extensive Rigging experience preferred. Must be able to comprehend ship ...

Rinvio is hiring Laborer / Compressor Operator candidates for full-time concrete cutting support ... A Class A license, demolition experience, and forklift, boom lift, or scissor lift certifications ...

Position Description General Summary A Certified Crane Operator safely and effectively operates ... Complete lift plans which include boom height, boom length, load radius, load weight, crane ...

Crane Operator

Bakersfield, CA ยท On-site

$26 - $33/hr

Position Description General Summary A Certified Crane Operator safely and effectively operates ... Complete lift plans which include boom height, boom length, load radius, load weight, crane ...

Equipment Operator

Shaver Lake, CA ยท On-site

$40.84 - $40.97/hr

Equipment Operator Pay Rate Type: Non-Exempt Creation Date/Revision Date: 04/24/2026 Job Summary ... Operates heavy machinery such as boom trimmers or mowers, excavators, tub grinder, feller-buncher ...

Equipment Operator

Shaver Lake, CA ยท On-site

$40.84 - $40.97/hr

Equipment Operator Pay Rate Type: Non-Exempt Creation Date/Revision Date: 04/24/2026 Job Summary ... Operates heavy machinery such as boom trimmers or mowers, excavators, tub grinder, feller-buncher ...

CRANE OPERATOR

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$33.14/hr

Your resume must show that you have the ability to perform common tasks including: (1) Working under close supervision, operating mobile, boom, truck mounted cranes to lift and move loads where ...

CRANE OPERATOR

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$33.14/hr

Your resume must show that you have the ability to perform common tasks including: (1) Working under close supervision, operating mobile, boom, truck mounted cranes to lift and move loads where ...

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Boom Operator information

See California salary details

$15

$25

$38

How much do boom operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for boom operator in California is $25.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.79 and $26.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Boom Operator do?

A Boom Operator is responsible for capturing high-quality audio on film and television sets. They operate a boom microphone, positioning it to clearly record dialogue while staying out of the camera frame. Boom Operators also assist the production sound mixer by managing cables and using wireless microphones when needed. Their role is crucial in ensuring crisp, clear sound for a production.

What does a boom operator do?

A boom operator is responsible for positioning and operating the boom microphone to capture clear audio during filming or recording. They work closely with the sound team, often using long poles or cranes, and must ensure the microphone remains out of the camera frame while capturing high-quality sound. The role requires good communication skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of audio equipment and safety protocols.

How can I become a boom operator?

To become a boom operator, you typically need to gain experience in audio recording and film production, often starting with entry-level positions or internships. Knowledge of audio equipment, microphones, and sound mixing is essential, and some pursue technical training or certifications in audio engineering. Building a network within the film and television industry can also help secure opportunities in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Boom Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Boom Operator, you need excellent audio recording skills, a keen ear for sound quality, and a solid understanding of set etiquette, often supported by experience or a degree in audio production or film. Familiarity with boom microphones, audio recorders, wireless systems, and related sound equipment is essential, and certification in audio technology can be an asset. Strong teamwork, communication, and the ability to stay focused and physically agile on set are valuable soft skills. These abilities ensure high-quality location sound capture and seamless collaboration with the production crew for optimal results.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A boom operator in the film and television industry can earn around $4,000 or more per week, especially with experience and working on high-budget productions. These roles typically require technical skills, knowledge of audio equipment, and often involve irregular schedules and outdoor environments. Other high-paying jobs without a degree include certain sales, real estate, or entrepreneurial roles, but they often depend on performance and experience.

How much do boom ops make?

Boom operators typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the scale of the production. Entry-level boom ops may start around $30,000, while experienced professionals working on major projects can earn higher wages, often supplemented by overtime and per diems.

What are some common challenges faced by Boom Operators on set?

Boom Operators often face the challenge of capturing clean audio while avoiding shadows, staying out of camera shots, and minimizing noise from movement or the environment. Sets can be physically demanding, requiring long hours of standing, holding the boom mic in challenging positions, and adapting to rapidly changing filming conditions. Collaboration with the sound mixer and the rest of the crew is crucial to coordinate timing and ensure the best possible audio without disrupting the shooting schedule. These challenges make the role dynamic and require quick problem-solving skills as well as strong attention to detail.

What are the most commonly searched types of Boom Operator jobs in California? The most popular types of Boom Operator jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Boom Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Boom Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Boom Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Boom Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Boom Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,583 per year, or $25.8 per hour.
Crane Operator - All Levels

Crane Operator - All Levels

National Steel and Shipbuilding Com

San Diego, CA โ€ข On-site

$33.15 - $36.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 hours ago


Job description

Job Posting End Date: Until Filled
Shift: ALL
Security Clearance: No Clearance Required
Who We Are
General Dynamics NASSCO is one of three shipyards in the Marine Systems group of General Dynamics Corporation (NYSE: GD). General Dynamics NASSCO traces its beginnings to the industrial heart of San Diego, along the working waterfront of beautiful and historic San Diego Bay. The company has been designing and building ships in San Diego's industrial corridor since 1960 and is the largest full service shipyard on the West Coast of the United States
Job Summary
Operates a variety of diesel electric cranes, including portal, tower, mobile, mobile (auxiliary), overhead (cab), overhead (floor), to lift and move heavy objects and machinery. Responds to ground signals to rotate boom, alter angle of boom, reposition crane and raise and lowers load. Inspects crane for defective parts and performs routine maintenance and inspection procedures. Performs other related tasks as assigned, some of which may become essential to the position.
Qualifications Standards
Must have knowledge of mechanical and crane operation principles. NCCCO License to operate Mobile Hydraulic Crane (All Terrain) preferred. Crane Operator with extensive Rigging experience preferred. Must be able to comprehend ship nomenclature (decks, port, stbd, fwd, aft, frame number, compartment location, etc.) Must be able to coordinate hand, foot and eye movement. Basic knowledge and comprehension of weights and conversion (lbs, tons, kilograms) needed. Knowledge and comprehension of universal hand-signals for rigging and crane operations necessary with the ability to clearly communicate via hand-held radio. Must have the ability to work at heights, in confined spaces, and be available to work any shift. Must comprehend written and verbal instructions, hear warning signals and read and comprehend safety instructions, regulations and warnings.
Essential Job Tasks
  1. Operate diesel electric cranes, including portal, tower, mobile, mobile (auxiliary), overhead (cab), overhead (floor) cranes; rotate and alter boom angles in response to radio or hand signals to raise, lower and transfer loads.
  2. Set up machinery and equipment, including boom lengths and crib outriggers.
  3. Rig machinery and material in and out of ships.
  4. Provide data into log books relating to lifts.
  5. Read load charts and understand different types of load materials and landing areas.
  6. Inspect cranes for proper operation.
  7. Conduct pre and post-job inspections independently and/or with supervision.
  8. Perform minor crane maintenance, clean windows, and make basic repairs.
  9. Train and mentor others in essential rigging job functions and safe crane operations.
  10. Other job duties as assigned relevant to the trade.

Materials, Tools, Equipment, Work Aids
Basic hand and power tools, rigging tools, gloves, lubricating greases, oil, and cleaning solvents. Personal protective equipment required.
Physical/Mental Involvement
Repetitive or prolonged sitting, climbing, balancing, and lifting. Lifting body weight, sitting, reaching, handling, pushing/pulling, standing, walking, leaning and seeing (to maintain visual contact with load), eye/hand/foot coordination. Hearing warning signals, reading and comprehending safety instructions and planning sequence. Works in all areas of the shipyard and on board ships. Hearing warning signals and reading and comprehending safety instructions. Must be able to maintain general safety awareness and avoid hazards commonly present in employee's work area.
Marginal Job Tasks
Housekeeping in all work areas, including sweeping. May be required to attend safety, quality and/or process improvement meetings.
Environmental Factors
Exposure to wind, rain, ambient temperatures such as extreme heat and cold, wet and humid conditions, dust, and toxic/caustic chemicals. Works at heights of up to 120' on piers or barges. Exposed to high levels of constant noise.
PAY SCALE $33.15 - $36.50
This pay range is a reasonable estimate of the hourly range for this role. It takes into account the wide range of factors considered in making compensation decisions; including but not limited to skill sets, experience, training, and education. General Dynamics NASSCO also provides a variety of benefits including medical & dental insurance coverage, 401(k) retirement savings plan, flexible spending accounts/HSAs, life and disability insurance, company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO), wellness coaching, and an onsite health services.
General Dynamics NASSCO is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law.
To learn more about applicant rights under federal law, click here:
Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal
If you have a disability that impacts your ability to complete the job application process and would like to request an accommodation, please contact our Human Resources Department.
Call (619) 544-8511 or email nasscohr@nassco.com. This contact information is for accommodation requests only, not to inquire about the status of applications.
NASSCO is an Equal Opportunity / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans Employer