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Contract Camera Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rothe Development, Inc.

Videographer II

Edwards, CA · On-site

$71K - $82K/yr

... contract creating and delivering multimedia and technical communications through the use of the ... You will serve as a camera operator during press conferences, large events, auditorium productions ...

Rothe Development, Inc.

Videographer II

Edwards, CA · On-site

$71K - $82K/yr

... contract creating and delivering multimedia and technical communications through the use of the ... You will serve as a camera operator during press conferences, large events, auditorium productions ...

Focus Camera LLC.

Lead Buyer

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$100K/yr

Focus Camera is a high-growth, high-volume e-commerce company with 60 years in business and a ... If you think like an operator, act like an owner, and want to directly influence revenue and profit ...

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How much do contract camera operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract camera operator in the United States is $28.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $30.53 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.

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.

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 cities are hiring for Contract Camera Operator jobs? Cities with the most Contract Camera Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Camera Operator jobs? The most popular types of Camera Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Camera Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Camera Operator jobs include:
Contract Camera Operator jobs near you
Videographer II

Videographer II

Rothe Development, Inc.

Edwards, CA • On-site

$71K - $82K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Videographer II
Rothe is seeking an experienced Videographer amp; Editor to capture and document groundbreaking aerospace research and events. This role requires a highly skilled and creative professional with expertise in scientific, event, and documentary photography across various environments, from controlled studio settings to dynamic outdoor and airborne conditions in support of the NASA Enterprise Multimedia and Integrated Technical Services (eMITS) contract. eMITS is the Agency’s enterprise-level contract creating and delivering multimedia and technical communications through the use of the internet, digital platforms, and IT management for NASA’s Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO) and Office of Communications (OCOMM). From capturing groundbreaking aeronautic missions, to producing engaging videos, to information technology management, to using social media to share NASA’s message, eMITS integrates services for NASA IT and provides NASA’s communication to the outside world. Come join us in support of NASA’s mission to inspire the world through information and discovery.
SALARY RANGE: $70,000 - $80,000
CLEARANCE: Requires the Ability to obtain a government secret clearance.
JOB LOCATION: NASA Neil Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC), Edwards, CA - Onsite
JOB DESCRIPTION:
As a Videographer II at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center, you will be responsible for planning, producing, and delivering high‑quality video products that support scientific research, public affairs, education, internal communication, and mission documentation. You will independently coordinate with customers to develop scripts or adapt existing material, ensuring that each project accurately communicates NASA’s work while meeting technical, creative, and organizational standards.
You will use a wide range of production tools—including large- and small‑format cameras, lighting systems, non‑linear editing platforms, audio equipment, production switchers, and mobile ENG systems—to create visually compelling content in both controlled and dynamic environments. Assignments often occur in operational settings where opportunities for retakes are limited, requiring strong technical expertise in lighting, exposure, sound recording, composition, and continuity.
In this role, you will document flight tests, research activities, executive events, and special programs across the center. 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. You may also support in‑flight documentation of high‑performance aircraft and research missions.
Additional responsibilities include digitization, duplication, and file‑sharing services, along with adherence to digital asset workflows, metadata standards, and work order systems to ensure organized, accessible, and compliant archiving of video materials. As a key member of a multidisciplinary communications team, you will collaborate closely with engineers, scientists, project managers, and leadership to deliver accurate, engaging, and mission‑aligned video content.
Remote, hybrid, and onsite positions, the employee bears travel costs to the nearest NASA Center for badging and the issuance of NASA IT equipment.
For a Remote or Hybrid position, the employee must have a reliable internet connection and be able to VPN into the NASA network to conduct work.
EDUCATION:
  • Associate’s degree or accredited formal training in related field and at least 10 years of related work experience.
  • Bachelor’s Degree with at least 5 years of related work experience.
Minimum Requirements:
  • Ability to independently produce, shoot and edit promotional, educational, and training videos.
  • Adobe Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve.
  • Adobe After Effects.
  • Large and small format camera systems.
  • Proficient understanding of lighting, sound, and depth-of-field in capturing interviews and cinematic style b-roll.
  • Must be capable of researching content and conducting on-camera interviews with subject matter experts (SMEs).
  • Must have initiative and good problem-solving skills. Must have good auditory and visual acuity.
  • Able to fly in pressurized and high-performance aircraft while shooting video. Demonstrated ability of perseverance when challenged with physical adversity.
  • Must possess a valid driver’s license.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a USAF Flight Line Driver’s License.
  • Pre-qualification requirement to pass a FAA Class III flight physical exam.
  • Chase aircraft personnel requirement to qualify for flight above 25,000 feet to fly back seat.
  • Must be able to pass physiological training, water survival, land survival, and egress training of the various aircraft flown at Armstrong Flight Research Center.
  • A desire to learn, follow direction from more senior staff, and contribute positive ideas.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Scripting/script adaptation
  • Social media platform creation and delivery formatting specifications.
  • Asset management familiarity.
  • Ability to travel independently, foreign and domestic, WITH GEAR to document NASA projects.
  • Understanding of 508 compliance and ability to navigate the process.
  • Technical direction and knowledge of productions switchers a plus.
  • Understanding of audio and video routers and patch panels, vector scopes and waveform monitors.
  • Knowledge of codecs for various types of multimedia distribution.
  • Establish and maintain successful working relationships with those contacted in the performance of this position.
  • Work in a team environment and independently with little direct supervision.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, creative environment under deadlines.
  • Capable of multi-tasking.
  • Communicate effectively in both oral and written form.
  • Adapt and react quickly to changing schedules and environments.
  • Strong organizational and project management skills
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with technical teams, researchers, and executive leadership.
Work Environment, Physical, and Mental demands:
  • Videographers may be required to fly to remote locations to perform their essential job functions. Therefore, the ability to fly and to travel as required by the company is essential.
  • Ability to perform certain physical tasks is necessary to perform videography work such as moderate lifting and carrying video equipment (up to 50 lbs.); standing or sitting for long periods of time (up to 8 hours); working in a wide range of weather conditions (e.g., high wind, with high dust levels and heat up to 100° F).
  • Mental alertness and fortitude to withstand challenging flight environment conditions confined spaces.
  • Ability to use a computer to input and retrieve information and data.
  • Will be required to fly as a crewmember in NASA aircraft.
  • May work overtime, weekends and/or holidays.
Rothe is an EEO/AA/Disability/Vets Employer and complies with E-Verify.
Rothe is an equal opportunity employer and complies with E-Verify. We believe in hiring a diverse workforce and fostering an inclusive culture. We are committed to non-discrimination on any protected basis, such as disability and veteran status, or any other basis covered under applicable law.
Rothe shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a).

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