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Contract Camera Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Team Lead Events Processor

Chicago, IL · On-site

$23.50 - $25/hr

Team Lead Events Processor Speed Camera and Red-Light Violations Processing Operations Chicago, IL ... Ensure compliance with customer requirements, standard operating procedures, privacy requirements ...

Filmmaking Tutor

Oak Lawn, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through writing screenplays, storyboarding scenes, operating cameras, setting up ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Filmmaking Tutor

Highland Park, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through writing screenplays, storyboarding scenes, operating cameras, setting up ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Filmmaking Tutor

Evanston, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through writing screenplays, storyboarding scenes, operating cameras, setting up ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Filmmaking Tutor

Wheaton, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through writing screenplays, storyboarding scenes, operating cameras, setting up ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Filmmaking Tutor

Des Plaines, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through writing screenplays, storyboarding scenes, operating cameras, setting up ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Filmmaking Tutor

Schaumburg, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through writing screenplays, storyboarding scenes, operating cameras, setting up ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Filmmaking Tutor

Buffalo Grove, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through writing screenplays, storyboarding scenes, operating cameras, setting up ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Filmmaking Tutor

Lake Forest, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through writing screenplays, storyboarding scenes, operating cameras, setting up ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Filmmaking Tutor

Chicago, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through writing screenplays, storyboarding scenes, operating cameras, setting up ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Filmmaking Tutor

Skokie, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through writing screenplays, storyboarding scenes, operating cameras, setting up ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Project & Contract Management Protect JLL's contractual position and ensure all work meets ... Experience as an operating engineer in data centers or mission-critical facilities * International ...

As a Lead Operating Engineer at JLL, you will serve as a critical hands-on leader within the ... contract compliance, maintain safety standards, and drive financial performance for assigned ...

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Showing results 1-20

Contract Camera Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$29

$64

How much do contract camera operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract camera operator in Chicago, IL is $29.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $31.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by contract camera operators when working on multiple projects?

As a contract camera operator, you may encounter challenges such as adapting quickly to varying production styles, equipment setups, and team workflows across different projects. Balancing overlapping deadlines, managing equipment logistics, and rapidly building rapport with new directors or crew members are common aspects of the role. Flexibility and strong communication skills are essential, as you’ll often need to shift between diverse environments and expectations while maintaining high-quality footage.

How to become a freelance camera operator?

To become a freelance camera operator, gain experience through internships or entry-level positions, develop technical skills with cameras and editing software, and build a strong portfolio. Networking and marketing your services are essential for securing freelance work, and obtaining relevant certifications can enhance credibility in the industry.

Do camera operators get paid well?

Camera operators typically earn a median annual salary that varies based on experience, location, and industry, with many earning between $40,000 and $80,000. Skilled operators working on high-profile productions or with specialized equipment can earn higher wages, especially with overtime and additional certifications.

What are contract camera operators?

Contract camera operators are professionals who are hired on a temporary or project basis to operate cameras for film, television, live events, or other video productions. Unlike staff camera operators, they work as freelancers or independent contractors and may work for multiple clients or production companies. Their responsibilities typically include setting up camera equipment, capturing footage according to the director’s vision, and ensuring high-quality visual output. Contract camera operators need to have technical expertise, creativity, and flexibility to adapt to different shooting environments. They often manage their own schedules and negotiate their own rates.

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

To thrive as a Contract Camera Operator, you need a solid understanding of camera equipment, composition, and lighting, often supported by experience or a relevant degree in film or media production. Familiarity with professional video cameras, stabilization rigs, editing software, and sometimes drone operation or live streaming platforms is important. Strong communication, adaptability, and attention to detail are valuable soft skills for collaborating on set and responding to fast-paced production needs. These skills ensure high-quality footage, efficient workflow, and successful delivery of the creative vision in diverse shooting environments.

Are camera operators in demand?

Camera operators are in steady demand across the entertainment, broadcast, and corporate sectors, especially for live events, film production, and television. Employment opportunities often require technical skills, familiarity with camera equipment, and sometimes certification, with demand influenced by the growth of media production and content creation industries.

What is the difference between Contract Camera Operator vs Freelance Camera Operator?

AspectContract Camera OperatorFreelance Camera Operator
CredentialsRelevant camera operation certifications, industry experienceSimilar credentials, often with additional portfolio requirements
Work EnvironmentTypically hired for specific projects or periods, often through agencies or production companiesSelf-employed, working on multiple projects for various clients
Employer/Industry UsageEngaged by production companies or broadcasters under contractHired directly by clients or production teams on a project basis

Both Contract Camera Operators and Freelance Camera Operators possess similar skills and credentials, often working in the same environments. The key difference lies in employment structure: Contract Camera Operators are usually hired through agencies or production companies for specific projects, while Freelance Camera Operators work independently, managing their own clients and schedules.

What are the most commonly searched types of Camera Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Camera Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Team Lead Events Processor

Prime Response, Inc

Chicago, IL • On-site

$23.50 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description


Team Lead Events Processor
Speed Camera and Red-Light Violations Processing Operations
Chicago, IL
About the Opportunity
Prime Response, Inc. (PRI) is seeking a Team Lead Events Processor to support Verra Mobility's speed camera and red-light violations processing operations in Chicago, Illinois. This position serves as PRI's onsite leader and primary point of contact for daily operational execution, employee support, workflow management, quality oversight, and customer service delivery related to automated traffic enforcement programs.
The Team Lead Events Processor is responsible for coordinating day-to-day operations that support the review, validation, processing, and administration of speed camera and red-light camera violation transactions. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys coaching and developing employees, and can effectively balance operational priorities while maintaining high standards of quality, accuracy, timeliness, and customer satisfaction.
Working closely with PRI and Verra Mobility leadership, the Team Lead Events Processor helps ensure operational goals are achieved, service levels are maintained, compliance requirements are met, and continuous improvement opportunities are identified and implemented.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead and support daily speed camera and red-light violations processing activities to ensure work is completed accurately, efficiently, and within established service-level requirements.
  • Monitor workload volumes, establish processing priorities, and coordinate staffing resources to meet operational objectives.
  • Serve as the primary onsite point of contact for operational questions, issue resolution, and process guidance.
  • Provide leadership, coaching, mentoring, and day-to-day support to employees.
  • Monitor operational performance metrics related to violations processing accuracy, productivity, timeliness, and quality.
  • Ensure compliance with customer requirements, standard operating procedures, privacy requirements, and quality control processes governing violations processing activities.
  • Investigate operational issues, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions and preventive measures.
  • Escalate significant risks, issues, or performance concerns to management with recommended solutions and mitigation strategies.
  • Conduct employee onboarding, cross-training, and ongoing skills development activities.
  • Maintain accurate operational records, reporting, and documentation.
  • Support staffing coordination, workload balancing, schedule planning, and coverage recommendations.
  • Partner with Verra Mobility leadership to identify and implement process improvements that enhance operational efficiency and customer service delivery.
  • Prepare operational reports, status updates, and customer-facing communications as needed.
  • Foster a positive, customer-focused culture built on accountability, teamwork, communication, and continuous improvement.

Requirements
Required Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Must be able to successfully pass a government background investigation.
  • Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screening.
  • Must maintain eligibility to access customer facilities and systems as required by the contract.
  • Demonstrated leadership experience in an operations, customer service, processing, logistics, compliance, or service-delivery environment.
  • Experience coaching, training, and developing employees.
  • Strong organizational, analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced operational environment.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality and accuracy.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree.
  • Experience supporting automated enforcement programs, traffic violations processing, case management, compliance operations, customer service operations, transaction processing, or records management.
  • Experience leading teams responsible for quality assurance, workflow management, operational reporting, or high-volume transaction processing.
  • Familiarity with service-level agreements (SLAs), operational performance metrics, and continuous improvement initiatives.
What We're Looking For
Successful candidates will demonstrate:
  • Strong leadership and accountability.
  • Excellent communication and customer service skills.
  • A proactive approach to problem solving.
  • The ability to build trust and credibility with employees and customers.
  • Sound judgment and professionalism.
  • Adaptability in a fast-paced operational environment.
  • A commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Benefits
Why Join PRI?
At Prime Response, Inc., we believe our people are our greatest asset. We are committed to fostering an inclusive, collaborative, and performance-driven culture where employees have the opportunity to grow professionally while making a meaningful impact supporting critical transportation and public safety programs.
Comprehensive and Competitive Benefits
Paid Time Off (PTO), paid Federal holidays, health insurance, dental, vision, AD&D, short and long-term disability, life insurance, and a Fidelity 401K.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Prime Response, Inc. (PRI) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. PRI does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.