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Camera Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for a Senior Camera & Vision Engineer to lead the development of camera-based ... operating in complex environments. The company combines custom silicon, integrated sensors, and ...

Camera Embedded Software Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$162K - $213K/yr

Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS) or bare-metal environments.Excellent analytical ... Experience with camera systems, machine learning for imaging, or sensor data processing.Exposure to ...

Preferred Qualifications Familiarity with command-line operation of operating systems such as macOS ... Understanding of camera technologies, image signal processing (ISP) pipeline, 3A, video formats ...

You will serve as a camera operator during press conferences, large events, auditorium productions, and on NASA's airborne platforms, with potential for travel to domestic and international locations.

The Video Engineering team is behind the cutting-edge camera and imaging technologies that power ... Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS) or bare-metal environments. Excellent ...

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How much do camera operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for camera operator in California is $27.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $30.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges a Camera Operator may face on set, and how can they be addressed?

Camera Operators often encounter challenges such as working in fast-paced environments, adapting to changing lighting conditions, and capturing shots as directed with precision. Effective communication with the director and crew is essential to ensure the vision is realized smoothly. Staying adaptable, proactively preparing equipment, and maintaining technical proficiency can help address these challenges and contribute to a successful shoot.

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

To thrive as a Camera Operator, you need expertise in camera techniques, framing, and lighting, often developed through hands-on experience or a degree in film, broadcasting, or a related field. Familiarity with professional cameras, lenses, stabilizers, and editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro or Avid Media Composer is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to follow creative direction help camera operators stand out. These skills ensure visually compelling footage and seamless collaboration, which are critical for producing high-quality visual content.

What does a Camera Operator do?

A Camera Operator is responsible for capturing video footage during film, television, or live event productions. They work closely with directors and cinematographers to ensure that the visual elements of a project are accurately and creatively recorded. Camera Operators set up and operate cameras, choose appropriate lenses, follow movement, and maintain shot composition. Their work is crucial in conveying the director’s vision and telling the story visually. They often collaborate with other crew members to ensure smooth production.

What is the difference between Camera Operator vs Video Technician?

AspectCamera OperatorVideo Technician
CredentialsOften requires a high school diploma, technical training, or certification in camera operationTypically needs technical certifications, troubleshooting skills, and sometimes a degree in video production or related fields
Work EnvironmentWorks on film sets, TV studios, live events, and production sitesWorks in broadcast stations, production facilities, or live event venues, handling equipment setup and maintenance
Industry UsageCommonly employed in film, television, and live event productionFound in broadcasting, live event production, and post-production facilities

While both roles involve working with video equipment, Camera Operators focus on capturing footage during productions, whereas Video Technicians handle technical setup, maintenance, and troubleshooting of video systems. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the video production industry.

What Do Camera Operators Do?

A camera operator operates cameras and related technical equipment for a TV show, motion picture, or special event. They typically follow instructions from a director, provide creative suggestions on the best way to film a shoot, and monitor the set for possible obstructions. A camera operator may work during live broadcasts, occasionally operate an audio console, manage studio lighting, and help prepare video recordings. In some parts of the industry, their duties require them to work early in the morning, at night, over the weekend, or on holidays. The qualifications to become a camera operator typically include a bachelor's degree in video production, film, or a relevant field and experience.

What are the most commonly searched types of Camera Operator jobs in California? The most popular types of Camera Operator jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Camera Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Camera Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Camera Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Camera Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Camera Operator jobs in CA? For Camera Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Camera Operator job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 41% Physical, and 59% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,816 per year, or $27.8 per hour.
Media Production Specialist- - Hrly/Int POOL (Athletics)

Media Production Specialist- - Hrly/Int POOL (Athletics)

California State University

Long Beach, CA • On-site

$26.37 - $38.41/hr

Other

Posted 16 days ago


California State University rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

215th of 535 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Media Production Specialist- - Hrly/Int POOL (Athletics)

Apply now Job no: 555540
Work type: Staff
Location: Long Beach
Categories: Unit 9 - CSUEU - Technical Support Services, Temporary, Part Time

Join the vibrant community at California State University, Long Beach (CSULB)!

Located just three miles from the Pacific Ocean, CSULB offers an inspiring workplace and an exceptional Southern California lifestyle. Our 322-acre campus, one of the largest in the CSU system, serves more than 42,000 students and is known for its commitment to student success, innovation, and impactful academic and research initiatives.

As a member of the CSULB community, you'll experience a dynamic environment filled with cultural landmarks, collaborative energy, and opportunities to make a meaningful difference.

Work-life balance thrives here. Long Beach blends coastal relaxation with urban vibrancy, offering miles of beaches, year-round sunshine, a thriving arts and food scene, and convenient access to both Los Angeles and Orange County. It's an ideal place to grow your career while enjoying everything Southern California has to offer.


Job Summary

Under the immediate supervision of the Associate Athletic Director of Broadcast & Communications, the incumbent will support Athletic Department game day activities at Walter Pyramid and Blair Field related to the video production, content, editing and streaming for live athletic events.  Additionally, the incumbent will maintain a focus on capturing most aspects of the live events, including pre-game activities, promotions, game action and the overall fan environment.


Key Responsibilities
  • Responsible for a variety of tasks and serving in a variety of positions related to game day video production, content, editing and streaming for live athletic events, including serving as a camera operator, video controller, video producer, video director, playback/CG operator, replay operator, technical director and/or utility/grip.
  • Maintain appropriate organization with the appropriate camera equipment at an athletic event, including all tripods and cables.  Duties may also include, but are not limited to, setting up monitors, cameras, replay equipment, cabling, moving tables/chairs.

Department

Athletics


Time Base/Duration of Appointment

POOL: Hourly/intermittent on call temporary position.  Successful candidates may be appointed for a few days and up to one (1) year depending on the assignment. Temporary assignments may expire prior to the ending date.


Classification

Media Production Specialist I


Compensation

Salary placement is determined by the education, experience, and qualifications the candidate brings to the position, internal equity, and the hiring department's fiscal resources.

The salary range for this classification is $26.37 to $38.41 per hour.


Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Working knowledge of full range of production techniques including sound recording, graphics, television, photography, videotaping, lighting, editing methods and equipment preferred. Ability to learn techniques in the development of television, film, radio or multimedia productions. Ability to use and maintain studio, camera and related equipment. Committed to following NCAA, Big West Conference, Mountain West Sports Federation (MPSF) and Golden Coast Conference rules and regulations.  Fully support and abide by CSU and Long Beach State's commitment to maintain a working and learning environment where every student, employee, and community member is treated with dignity and respect.

 Employees will support and comply with the Long Beach State commitment to maintain a safe and healthy living and learning environment for everyone. Ability to communicate with an ethnically and culturally diverse campus community.  Ability to follow all university policies, procedures, and guidelines including but not limited to safety, civility, information security, and non-discrimination policies and procedures.  Ability to contribute to a positive university experience for each and every student and assist in achieving the university's commitment to a "vision of excellence."


Education and Experience

Equivalent to a bachelor's degree in related field and six months of related professional or technical experience required. Must be available to work evenings and weekends.


Application Procedures

Click "Apply Now" to complete the CSULB Online Employment Application.

Please fill out the application completely. It is important that all sections of the online application are completed fully and accurately. Be sure to include all relevant education and experience. Your application will be used to determine whether you meet the minimum qualifications for this position.


Physical Summary

Light work - Job involves some lifting of medium weight objects (10-20 pounds) and/or 10% - 20% of the job involves standing or walking.


Additional Information

CSULB is not a sponsoring agency for staff and management positions (i.e. H-1B Visas).

A background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily and is required for employment. CSULB will make a conditional offer of employment, which may be rescinded if the background check reveals disqualifying information, and/or it is discovered that the candidate knowingly withheld or falsified information. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the continued employment of a current CSU employee who was conditionally offered the position.

The person holding this position is considered a 'mandated reporter' under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 Revised July 21, 2017 as a condition of employment.

Long Beach State Athletics is committed to following NCAA, Big West Conference, Golden Coast Conference, and Mountain Pacific Sports Federation rules and regulations. Therefore, the incumbent is required to maintain a working knowledge of these rules and regulations.


Equal Employment Statement

Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, CSULB provides equal opportunity in employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, national origin, or other protected status. CSULB complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the California Equity in Higher Education Act, California's Proposition 209 (Art. I, Section 31 of the California Constitution), other applicable state and federal anti-discrimination laws, and CSU's Nondiscrimination Policy. We prohibit discriminatory preferential treatment, segregation based on race or any other protected status, and all forms of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in all university programs, policies, and practices.

California State University Long Beach expects respectful, professional behavior from its employees in all situations. Acts of harassment or abusive conduct are prohibited. Demonstrated appropriate professional behavior, treating others with civility and respect, and refusing to tolerate abusive conduct is expected of all employees.


Accommodations

We provide reasonable accommodation to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact StaffHR-Accommodations@csulb.edu.


Out of State Employment Policy

California State University, Long Beach, as part of the CSU system, is a State of California Employer. As such, the University requires all employees upon date of hire to reside in the State of California.

As of January 1, 2022 the CSU Out-of-State Employment Policy prohibits the hiring of employees to perform CSU-related work outside the state of California.

Advertised: Feb 25 2026 Pacific Standard Time
Applications close: Feb 24 2027 Pacific Standard Time

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About California State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

California State University, Fresno is one of 23 campuses in the California State University System. The University's mission is to boldly educate and empower students for success through our values of Discovery, Diversity and Distinction. The current student population is more than 25,000, including a large percentage of students with diverse and culturally rich backgrounds. The University serves the San Joaquin Valley while maintaining deep involvement with the state, nation, and across the globe.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Long Beach, CA, US