Combat Photographer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Photographer IV (AVTBHQ-2026-25798):

Bowhead seeks a Photographer IV to support operational and technical support services for the Amphibious Vehicle Test Branch (AVTB) Headquarters and Technical Support Services (HQTSS) at Camp Pendleton, CA. AVTB is a Department of Defense (DoD) sponsored test facility that provides year-round Test and Evaluation (T&E) of amphibious vehicles, ground combat vehicles, systems, and equipment for the Marine Corps Systems Command (MCSC) and Program Executive Officer Land Systems (PEO LS).

Job duties include but are not limited to:

• Transport cameras, video equipment, and necessary gear safely to various locations.
• Take still photos and videos in training areas, including the Amphibious Vehicle Test Branch (AVTB) RAMP, on rugged terrain, on the beach, on a 11M RHIB and 38' and 64' workboat in the water, during test execution.
• Test, clean, maintain, and repair recording equipment, including testing microphones, to ensure proper working conditions.
• Media/Photography/Videography Specialist will use traditional and/or digital cameras, along with a variety of equipment, such as tripods, filters, and flash attachments. Adjust positions and controls of cameras and related equipment to change focus, exposure, and lighting and observe test locations for potential problems and to determine filming and lighting requirements.
• Upon completion of testing, Media Specialist/Photography/Videography Specialist will organize and parse raw footage into continuous video according to scripts or the instructions of the customer. Trim film segments to specified lengths and reassemble segments in sequences.
• Set up and operate computer editing systems, electronic titling systems, video switching equipment, and digital video effects units to produce a final product. Select and combine the most effective shots of each scene to form a logical and smooth-running story.
• Edit films and videotapes to insert music, dialogue, and sound effects; to arrange films into sequences; and to correct errors using editing equipment. Review footage, sequence by sequence, to become familiar with it before assembling into a final product.
• Confer with Government personnel concerning layout or editing approaches needed to increase value of production. This may include composing and framing each shot and applying the technical aspects of light, lenses, film, filters, and camera settings to achieve the effects sought by customer.
• Edit videos for production and archiving, including non-linear editing using software, such as CyberLink Power Director.
• Maintain inventory of audio-visual equipment. Send inventory report monthly to the AVTB OMTS Program Manager.
• Compress, digitize, duplicate, and store audio and video data.
• Manipulate and enhance scanned or digital images to create desired effects, using computers and specialized software, such as Adobe Photoshop.
• Transfer photographs to computers for editing, archiving, and electronic transmission.
• Review sets of photographs to select the best work.
• Test equipment prior to use to ensure it is in good working order.

• HS diploma required.
• Minimum of one year of experience working in the Media industry.
• Deep practical understanding of camera operation (e.g., "exposure triangle"), composition, and visual storytelling.
• Demonstrated proficiency with professional non-linear editing software (e.g., CyberLink Power Director, Adobe Premiere Pro) and image editing software (e.g., Adobe Photoshop).
• Ability to work safely and effectively on unstable platforms, in rugged terrain, and around military equipment.
• Practical knowledge of professional cameras and audio equipment for maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Must be physically capable of safely lifting and carrying up to 75 pounds unassisted. Must possess the physical mobility required to embark, disembark, and navigate within military tactical vehicles and vessels in varying environmental conditions.

Physical Demands:

• Must be physically capable of safely lifting and carrying up to 75 pounds unassisted.
• Must possess the physical mobility required to embark, disembark, and navigate within military tactical vehicles and vessels in varying environmental conditions.
• Must be able to stand and walk for prolonged amounts of time
• Must be able to twist, bend and squat periodically
• Physically climb ladders, boats, and test vehicles.

SECURITY CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS: Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret Security Clearance.  US Citizenship is a requirement for Secret security clearance at this location.