ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Boom Operator Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

builders

Boom/Crane Operator

Beaverton, OR

Requires Boom or Crane Operator certification. Work Environment / Physical Activity: * Work is performed within a production environment, subject to temperature variations, hazardous chemicals ...

Builders FirstSource

Boom/Crane Operator

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Requires Boom or Crane Operator certification. Work Environment / Physical Activity: * Work is performed within a production environment, subject to temperature variations, hazardous chemicals ...

Republic Services

ES Marine Field Technician I

Portland, OR · On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

Load and unload equipment, boom, and anchors from and into vessels, vans, flatbeds, trailers ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsBoom Operator JobsBoom Operator Jobs in Portland, OR

Boom Operator information

See Portland, OR salary details

$16

$27

$41

How much do boom operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for boom operator in Portland, OR is $27.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.57 and $28.65 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 Portland, OR? The most popular types of Boom Operator jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Boom Operator jobs in Portland, OR? For Boom Operator jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Boom Operator jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Boom Operator jobs in Portland, OR are:
Boom Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Boom Operator job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, 82% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,579 per year, or $27.7 per hour.
Boom/Crane Operator

Boom/Crane Operator

builders

Beaverton, OR

Other

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Operates boom and/or crane to move heavy construction material into specific areas of the yard or onto delivery truck, including rigging, planning and hoisting.  Inspects and maintains boom/crane equipment in order to ensure safety and prevent damage to equipment and surrounding structures.

What You'll Do:

  • Operates boom including rigging, planning and hoisting of a variety of heavy construction materials; performs pre-operational inspection and maintenance of boom/crane.
  • Moves material into specific areas of the yard or hoist material onto the delivery truck. 
  •  May ride along with Driver to assist in the unloading of material at the customer site.
  • Calculates the boom/crane capacities and weights and checks clearances so that buildings, hydro wires and foundation of the machine will not be damaged during operation.
  • Plans and paces own work efficiency in order to meet daily, weekly, project, or team related productivity goals.
  • Understands and observes all safety procedures and practices in order to prevent injury to self or co-workers; attends periodic safety meetings as required; may recommend changes to improve safety procedures.
  • Other duties may be assigned.

Minimum Requirements:

High school diploma or General Education Degree (GED) and two (2) years boom and/or crane operation experience, or equivalent combination of education, training or experience.  Requires Boom or Crane Operator certification.

Work Environment / Physical Activity:

  • Work is performed within a production environment, subject to temperature variations, hazardous chemicals, mechanical parts, increased noise levels and dust.
  • Must be able to lift and carry up to 100 pounds frequently and on occasion may be required to lift and carry, with assistance, up to 200 pounds.
  • Must be able to physically operate boom equipment (climb up and down into cab, twist torso for 360 degree visibility, use arms to operate controls, etc.).

Apply