... instructors with educational, teaching, and professional experience in film or cinema for all ... Film Producing * Cinematography * Production Design * Picture Editing * Visual Effects ...
... instructors with educational, teaching, and professional experience in film or cinema for all ... Film Producing * Cinematography * Production Design * Picture Editing * Visual Effects ...
... instructors with educational, teaching, and professional experience in cinema production for all ... Cinematography Considerations: Exceptions to standard rates may apply to courses with unique credit ...
... instructors with educational, teaching, and professional experience in cinema production for all ... Cinematography Considerations: Exceptions to standard rates may apply to courses with unique credit ...
... instructors with educational, teaching, and professional experience in film or cinema for all ... Film Producing * Cinematography * Production Design * Picture Editing * Visual Effects ...
... instructors with educational, teaching, and professional experience in film or cinema for all ... Film Producing * Cinematography * Production Design * Picture Editing * Visual Effects ...
... instructors with educational, teaching, and professional experience in cinema production for all ... Cinematography Considerations: Exceptions to standard rates may apply to courses with unique credit ...
... instructors with educational, teaching, and professional experience in cinema production for all ... Cinematography Considerations: Exceptions to standard rates may apply to courses with unique credit ...
Cinematography Instructor information
See Chicago, IL salary details
$15.70 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$13.62 - $16.57
35% of jobs
The median wage is $18.91 / hr.
$16.57 - $19.52
18% of jobs
$19.52 - $22.47
17% of jobs
$23.39 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$22.47 - $25.42
13% of jobs
$25.42 - $28.37
0% of jobs
$28.37 - $31.31
3% of jobs
$31.31 - $34.26
1% of jobs
$34.26 - $37.21
1% of jobs
$37.21 - $40.16
1% of jobs
$40.16 - $43.11
9% of jobs
$43.11 - $46.06
1% of jobs
$13
$24
$46
How much do cinematography instructor jobs pay per hour?
As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for cinematography instructor in Chicago, IL is $24.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What does a cinematography instructor do?
A cinematography instructor teaches students the art and techniques of visual storytelling through camera work, lighting, and composition in film and video production. They provide theoretical knowledge as well as hands-on training with industry-standard equipment and software. Instructors often design curriculum, lead workshops, and mentor students on both technical skills and creative concepts. Their goal is to prepare students for careers in film, television, or digital media by fostering both technical proficiency and artistic vision.
What are some common challenges cinematography instructors face when teaching students with varying experience levels?
Cinematography Instructors often encounter classes with students at different technical and artistic skill levels. Balancing lessons to engage beginners while still challenging advanced learners can be difficult. Instructors address this by designing flexible assignments, offering personalized feedback, and encouraging collaboration among students. Additionally, keeping up with rapidly evolving technology and industry standards requires instructors to continually update their own knowledge and teaching materials.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cinematography instructor, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Cinematography Instructor, you need a deep understanding of visual storytelling, camera operation, lighting techniques, and a degree in film production or a related field, often with professional experience in cinematography. Familiarity with industry-standard cameras, editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve, and teaching tools is essential. Strong communication, creativity, and the ability to inspire and mentor students are crucial soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure that instructors effectively transfer technical knowledge while fostering students’ artistic growth and readiness for the film industry.
What is the difference between Cinematography Instructor vs Camera Operator?
| Aspect | Cinematography Instructor | Camera Operator |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | Film or cinematography degree, teaching certifications | Experience, sometimes certifications, technical training |
| Work Environment | Educational settings, workshops, film schools | On-set, filming locations, studios |
| Industry Usage | Teaching institutions, film programs | Production companies, broadcasting |
The main difference is that a Cinematography Instructor focuses on teaching and training students in cinematography techniques, often in educational settings, while a Camera Operator works directly on film sets, operating cameras during productions. Both roles require technical knowledge, but their work environments and primary responsibilities differ significantly.
What are popular job titles related to Cinematography Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL?
For Cinematography Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cinematography Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL look for?
The top searched job categories for Cinematography Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Adjunct Faculty in Film - Post Production
Chicago, IL • On-site
DePaul University •
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees1,001 - 5,000 employees
7.2
Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
388th of 627 rated colleges and universities
Good employer
Recommended by students
Recommended by parents
Respectful managers
Good training
Full-time, Part-time
Re-posted 9 days ago
Job description
Description
DePaul's Jarvis College of Computing & Digital Media (CDM) is located in the heart of Chicago's Loop, the central business district of Chicago. Our students represent many different experiences, perspectives, and cultures, and the university strives to recruit and sustain a faculty community where all backgrounds are valued and supported. Part-time teaching positions are available throughout the academic year, including summer sessions. Academic course schedules fluctuate from quarter to quarter, and the college will work with selected individuals to determine a quarterly schedule. Courses are not guaranteed, however the college does its best to give ample notice about available courses. Applicants with expertise that matches course scheduling needs will be contacted for an interview.
The School of Cinematic Arts (SCA) offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs incluuding Film and Television, Animation, Creative Producing, Documentary, and Screenwriting on the Loop campus and at DePaul Cinespace Studios. Find out more about SCA at https://www.cdm.depaul.edu/academics/Pages/School-of-Cinematic-Arts.aspx.
Qualifications
Minimum requirements include a master's degree in the discipline, or 18 semester/27 quarter hours of graduate work in the discipline, or an undergraduate degree with a minimum of five years demonstrated relevant professional experience. Exceptions may be considered with approval of the dean.
Graduate degree in film or cinema, and professional credits on distributed or broadcasted work, or significant film festival or contest screenings or awards are preferred.
Application Instructions
The Film and Television Post Production Program in the School of Cinematic Arts is hiring part-time instructors with educational, teaching, and professional experience in film or cinema for all phases of the filmmaking process, including pre-production, production, and post-production. Applicants in documentary, screenwriting, sound design, directing, or television are encouraged to apply to those specific searches.
This posting applies to
Considerations:
Exceptions to standard rates may apply to courses with unique credit hours, supervision, labs, clinical/practicum courses, coaching, administrative tasks, and courses that are either over-enrolled or under-enrolled.
General Compensation/Benefits Statement:
DePaul University has provided a compensation range that represents its good faith estimate of what the University may pay for the position at the time of posting. The salary offered to the selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the qualifications, education, experience, and training of the selected candidate, the scope and responsibilities of the position, departmental budget availability, internal salary equity considerations, and available market information.
DePaul University offers a variety of benefit options for qualified part-time employees. Further information regarding benefits can be found here: https://offices.depaul.edu/human-resources/benefits/part-time/Pages/default.aspx
About DePaul University's Academic Calendar:
Except for the College of Law, DePaul University operates on a quarter system. Classes in Autumn, Winter, and Spring quarters are 11 weeks in length (including finals week) and Summer courses, in two sessions, are typically 5 weeks in length. The College of Law operates on the semester system. Classes in the Fall and Spring semesters are 16 weeks in length (including finals week) and it offers a Summer Session of 7 weeks (including final exams).
DePaul's Jarvis College of Computing & Digital Media (CDM) is located in the heart of Chicago's Loop, the central business district of Chicago. Our students represent many different experiences, perspectives, and cultures, and the university strives to recruit and sustain a faculty community where all backgrounds are valued and supported. Part-time teaching positions are available throughout the academic year, including summer sessions. Academic course schedules fluctuate from quarter to quarter, and the college will work with selected individuals to determine a quarterly schedule. Courses are not guaranteed, however the college does its best to give ample notice about available courses. Applicants with expertise that matches course scheduling needs will be contacted for an interview.
The School of Cinematic Arts (SCA) offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs incluuding Film and Television, Animation, Creative Producing, Documentary, and Screenwriting on the Loop campus and at DePaul Cinespace Studios. Find out more about SCA at https://www.cdm.depaul.edu/academics/Pages/School-of-Cinematic-Arts.aspx.
Qualifications
Minimum requirements include a master's degree in the discipline, or 18 semester/27 quarter hours of graduate work in the discipline, or an undergraduate degree with a minimum of five years demonstrated relevant professional experience. Exceptions may be considered with approval of the dean.
Graduate degree in film or cinema, and professional credits on distributed or broadcasted work, or significant film festival or contest screenings or awards are preferred.
Application Instructions
The Film and Television Post Production Program in the School of Cinematic Arts is hiring part-time instructors with educational, teaching, and professional experience in film or cinema for all phases of the filmmaking process, including pre-production, production, and post-production. Applicants in documentary, screenwriting, sound design, directing, or television are encouraged to apply to those specific searches.
This posting applies to
- Film
- Cinema
- Filmmaking
- Film Production
- Film Studies
- Film Producing
- Cinematography
- Production Design
- Picture Editing
- Visual Effects
Considerations:
Exceptions to standard rates may apply to courses with unique credit hours, supervision, labs, clinical/practicum courses, coaching, administrative tasks, and courses that are either over-enrolled or under-enrolled.
General Compensation/Benefits Statement:
DePaul University has provided a compensation range that represents its good faith estimate of what the University may pay for the position at the time of posting. The salary offered to the selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the qualifications, education, experience, and training of the selected candidate, the scope and responsibilities of the position, departmental budget availability, internal salary equity considerations, and available market information.
DePaul University offers a variety of benefit options for qualified part-time employees. Further information regarding benefits can be found here: https://offices.depaul.edu/human-resources/benefits/part-time/Pages/default.aspx
About DePaul University's Academic Calendar:
Except for the College of Law, DePaul University operates on a quarter system. Classes in Autumn, Winter, and Spring quarters are 11 weeks in length (including finals week) and Summer courses, in two sessions, are typically 5 weeks in length. The College of Law operates on the semester system. Classes in the Fall and Spring semesters are 16 weeks in length (including finals week) and it offers a Summer Session of 7 weeks (including final exams).
About DePaul University
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Colleges, universities, and professional schools
Company size
1,001 - 5,000 Employees
Headquarters location
Chicago, IL, US
Year founded
1898
Website
What DePaul University employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
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