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Camera Department Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Camera Department information

What is the camera department?

The Camera Department is a team on a film or television set responsible for capturing all the visual elements of a production. This department typically includes roles such as the Director of Photography (DP), camera operators, focus pullers, and camera assistants. Their main duties include setting up cameras, selecting lenses, managing camera movements, and ensuring the technical quality of the footage. The Camera Department works closely with the director and lighting team to achieve the desired visual style and storytelling goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the camera department, and why are they important?

To thrive in the Camera Department, you need a strong understanding of cinematography, camera operation, and lighting techniques, often supported by formal training or a degree in film production. Familiarity with professional camera systems (such as ARRI, RED, or Sony), lenses, grip equipment, and editing software is typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with directors and crew. These skills ensure the visual quality and storytelling integrity of a production, contributing to its overall success.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in the camera department on film sets, and how can they prepare for them?

Professionals in the camera department often work in fast-paced, high-pressure environments where adaptability is key. Common challenges include managing tight shooting schedules, working in varying and sometimes difficult lighting conditions, and ensuring clear communication with directors, lighting crews, and other departments. To prepare, it's helpful to develop strong technical skills, stay organized, and cultivate the ability to troubleshoot equipment issues on the spot. Building collaborative relationships and maintaining flexibility can also greatly enhance your effectiveness on set.

What is the difference between Camera Department vs Camera Operator?

AspectCamera DepartmentCamera Operator
CredentialsVaries by role; often includes technical training or certificationsTypically requires technical training, certifications, or experience in camera operation
Work EnvironmentIncludes various roles like Assistant Camera, DOP, Grip, etc., on set or locationPrimarily on set, operating cameras during filming
Industry UsageUsed broadly across film, TV, commercials, and video productionSpecifically refers to the person operating the camera equipment

The Camera Department encompasses all roles involved in camera work, including assistants and operators. The Camera Operator is a specific role within this department responsible for operating the camera during filming. While the department includes various positions, the Camera Operator focuses on capturing footage directly, requiring technical skills and experience in camera operation.

How do you get a job as a camera department?

To get a job in the camera department, individuals typically gain experience through film or media school programs, internships, or entry-level positions such as camera assistant. Developing skills in camera operation, understanding of equipment like cameras and lenses, and building industry contacts are essential steps toward advancing in this field.

What are the five main job positions in the camera department?

The five main job positions in the camera department are Director of Photography (DP), Camera Operator, First Assistant Camera (1st AC or Focus Puller), Second Assistant Camera (2nd AC), and Camera Production Assistant. These roles involve operating, maintaining, and managing camera equipment, with skills in camera operation, focus pulling, and equipment setup essential for each position.

What are popular job titles related to Camera Department jobs in California?

For Camera Department jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Camera Department jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Camera Department jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Camera Department jobs?

Cities in California with the most Camera Department job openings:

Infographic showing various Camera Department job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Communication Specialist IV (Camera Project Lead)

City of Long Beach, CA

Long Beach, CA • On-site

$30.58 - $76.54/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Salary: $30.58 - $76.54 Hourly
Location : City of Long Beach, CA
Job Type: Classified - Full-Time, Permanent
Job Number: H68AN-26C
Department: Multiple Departments - (CL)
Opening Date: 07/28/2026
Closing Date: 9/22/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
DESCRIPTION
Applications are available online beginning Tuesday, July 28, 2026, through 4:30 PM, Tuesday, September 22, 2026. (EXTENDED)
VACANCY INFORMATION:
Communication Specialist IV (Camera Project Lead) - There is currently one (1) Communication Specialist IV (Camera Project Lead) opening in the Technology & Innovation (TID) Department. This role operates under limited supervision and requires specialized expertise in security camera and access control systems, including configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting. This role will be responsible for leading initiatives related to security camera and access control systems, encompassing new installations and upgrades for the Security Infrastructure Team.
Please refer to the Desirable Qualifications listed below for more information.
SALARY INFORMATION:
Grade I - $30.579 - $41.579 Hourly
Grade II - $33.845 - $45.992 Hourly
Grade III - $37.419 - $50.862 Hourly
Grade IV - $42.431 - $57.788 Hourly
Grade V - $46.922 - $63.920 Hourly
Grade VI - $51.697 - $70.775 Hourly
Grade VII - $56.870 - $76.540 Hourly
EXAMPLES OF DUTIES
Under supervision, maintains, installs, repairs, plans and designs communication systems and equipment; may act in a lead or supervisory capacity; adapts, assembles, installs, and operates electronic equipment (e.g. mobile and portable radios, remote base stations, microwave systems, mobile data terminals, and cellular modems); may install, repair, maintain, configure, and upgrade TDM and VOIP telephone systems, IVRs, Call Centers, PBXs, and network cameras; may install, repair, maintain, configure, and upgrade data communication equipment such as hubs, routers, APs, and switches; may install, repair, maintain, configure, and upgrade servers; provides effective customer service by keeping customers informed of progress, ensuring satisfaction, providing advice, etc.; may develop, conduct, or implement in-service training programs, safety programs, field tests, and/or work inspections; may act as a project leader or liaison between user departments and the communications groups; may perform complex and detailed cost benefit analysis and feasibility studies; may represent the City during meetings with other regulatory bodies; may ensure strict enforcement and compliance with safety regulations; and performs other related duties as assigned.
REQUIREMENTS TO FILE
Applicants must meet the requirements of Option A, Option B, or Option C to qualify:
Option A:
A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Computer Science, Telecommunications, Radio or Television Communications, or related (proof required) * AND one year of paid full-time experience equivalent related experience in telecommunications, video communications and/or wireless equivalent to a ;
OR
Option B:
An associate's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Computer Science, Telecommunications, Radio or Television Communications, or related field (proof required) *AND three (3) years of paid, full-time equivalent related experience in telecommunications, video communications and/or wireless communications with at least one year of experience equivalent to a ;
OR
Option C:
Completion of a one-year certificate program from an accredited technical/vocational school with coursework in computer science, television communications, telecommunications, two-way radio or a related field (proof required) * AND four (4) years of paid full-time equivalent related experience in telecommunications, video communications and/or wireless communications with at least one year of experience equivalent to a .
Opportunities for Substitution of Education or Experience
Additional related experience may be substituted for the education on a year-for-year basis.
*Proof of required documents, such as degrees and transcripts, must be uploaded to the online application at the time of filing. Any proofs submitted must contain either the applicant's name or other identifying characteristic on the form. Degree must indicate the field of study and transcripts must indicate field of study and degree conferred date. Candidates who possess degrees from colleges or universities from outside the United States must attach proof of educational equivalency at the time of filing.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing;
  • Ability to provide effective customer service;
  • Ability to move and lift up to 40 pounds;
  • Ability to work at heights of 160 feet;

A Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Radiotelephone Operator's License (GROL) is required before passing probation for some positions that configure and repair two-way radios in the Wireless Division.
Willingness to work an irregular schedule, including nights, weekends, overtime, and holidays.
A valid driver's license or the ability to arrange necessary and timely transportation for field travel may be required for some assignments.
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS:
Communication Specialist IV (Camera Project Lead) - Infrastructure Services Bureau, Network Division, Security Infrastructure Group
  • Knowledge of the intersection and Integration of IT systems and operational technology systems.
  • Experience with security camera and access control systems, including new installations and upgrades, systems maintenance, troubleshooting, and configuration to resolve technical issues and improve system functionality.
  • Technical certifications in Genetec or other video management systems, as well as Lenel or other access control systems.

  • Ability to oversee complex projects from initiation to completion, encompassing the development and execution of project work scopes while ensuring contractor compliance.

  • Ability to support and maintain underlying infrastructure, including fiber networks and related technology systems.
  • Strong project management abilities, with the capability to oversee complex projects from inception to completion.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including contractors, technology teams, and city departments.

SELECTION PROCEDURE
EXAMINATION WEIGHTS:
Application and Supplemental Application......................................................Qualifying
Screening of applicants will be conducted on the basis of application and required supplemental application submitted. This selection procedure will be conducted using a continuous non-competitive process, which means applications are evaluated solely on training, experience, education, or certification. All applicants meeting the minimum qualifications will be placed on an eligible list. Applicants receiving Veteran's Credit will be placed on the eligible list first and then in the order in which applications were filed. This is a continuous eligible list, which means eligible lists may be established periodically and may expire six months from their effective date. Applicants may apply only once during a four-month period. Candidates meeting the minimum qualifications with applications received by August 11, 2026, will be placed on Test #01 established eligible list.
If you have not received notification within two weeks after close of filing , please contact the Human Resources Department at (562) 570-7008.
In accordance with Civil Service Procedure 3.38, all eligible veterans that successfully qualify on any or all open competitive examinations shall receive an additional credit of ten (10) points that will be added to their original passing score. Disabled veterans passing the examination shall receive a credit of fifteen (15) points that will be added to their original passing score. (A copy of the veterans DD-214, Member 4 form indicating honorable discharge must be attached to the application at the time of filing.)
This position is eligible for Local Hiring Preferences and Veterans Preference Points. Learn more about available preferences and eligibility criteria here:
EQUITY AND INCLUSION
The City of Long Beach is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as an individual with a disability, or other characteristics protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We value diversity in our workforce and are committed to creating a workplace where every employee is respected and included. We strive to reflect the diversity of our community at all levels of the organization, promote fair and equitable employment practices, advance equity, and inclusion through our work with staff and community partners, and promote transparency by publishing workforce demographic information, including diversity and pay data by race and gender.
The City of Long Beach will consider qualified applicants with a criminal history pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act. You are not required to disclose your criminal history or participate in a background check until you receive a conditional job offer. If the City of Long Beach has concerns about a conviction that is directly related to the job after making a conditional job offer and conducting a background check, you will have the opportunity to explain the circumstances surrounding the conviction, provide evidence to mitigate concerns, or challenge the accuracy of the background report. Find out more about the Fair Chance Act by visiting https://calcivilrights.ca.gov/fair-chance-act
In support of the City's Language Access Policy, bilingual skills (Spanish, Khmer, and/or Tagalog) are desirable for positions interacting with the public.
This information is available in an alternative format by request at (562) 570-6202. If special accommodation is desired, please contact the Talent Management Department two (2) business days prior to the test at (562) 570-7008. For the hearing impaired, call 562) 570-6638.
An Equal Opportunity Employer.
H68AN-26C RC:CS 07/27/2026
Employee Benefits
The City of Long Beach offers its employees opportunities to grow personally and professionally. As a permanent employee, you are eligible to receive fringe benefits that include:
Medical and Dental Insurance
Life Insurance
Retirement Plan (P.E.R.S.)
Paid Vacation, Personal Holidays and Sick Leave
Deferred Compensation
Credit Union Membership
Free Bus Transportation (Long Beach Transit)
Flexible Spending Accounts
Free Employee Parking
Paid Parental Leave*
*Paid Parental Leave - after six (6) months of City employment; up to 30 calendar days (160 hours/192 hours for sworn platoon) of PPL, taken in full-day increments, in connection with the birth, adoption, or foster placement of a child, up to the age of seventeen (17).
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INSTRUCTIONS:The purpose of these supplemental questions is to derive more specific information about your qualifications for the Communication Specialist I-VII position. Applicants must clearly demonstrate their qualifying experience. These questions will serve as the basis for qualifying candidates for advancement into the selection process. Be specific and detailed in your responses. Resumes should be attached, but may not be substituted in lieu of the required application forms (i.e., responses should NOT state "see resume").Please be advised that failure to answer the required questions will result in an incomplete application and will jeopardize your opportunity to be placed on the eligible list.The application, supplemental questionnaire, and attachments must be completed and received by the filing deadline.Proof of any required documents must be uploaded to the online application. Please be advised that failure to provide the required documents will result in an incomplete application and will jeopardize your opportunity to be placed on the eligible list.If you require assistance, please call our customer service line at (562) 570-7008 during the filing period between the hours of 7:30 AM through 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday, or email HR-TalentAcquisition@longbeach.gov and include COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST I-VII in the subject line.Do you understand the instructions for completing and submitting the application and supplemental questionnaire for this job opportunity?
  • Yes

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REQUIREMENTS TO FILE:Please indicate how you meet the requirements to file for Communication Specialist I-VII:
  • Option A: A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Computer Science, Telecommunications, Radio or Television Communications, or related (proof required) * AND one year of paid full-time experience equivalent related experience in telecommunications, video communications and/or wireless communications equivalent to a Systems Technician;
  • Option B: An associate's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Computer Science, Telecommunications, Radio or Television Communications, or related field (proof required) *AND three (3) years of paid, full-time equivalent related experience in telecommunications, video communications and/or wireless communications with at least one year of experience equivalent to a Systems Technician;
  • Option C: Completion of a one-year certificate program from an accr