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Documentary Camera Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

La Storia Productions

Documentary Editor

Boulder, CO · On-site

La Storia Productions is seeking an experienced, full-time, in-house Documentary Editor with a ... Minimum 5 years of professional camera operating experience * Must be local to the Greater Boulder ...

La Storia Productions

Documentary Editor

Boulder, CO · On-site

La Storia Productions is seeking an experienced, full-time, in-house Documentary Editor with a ... Minimum 5 years of professional camera operating experience * Must be local to the Greater Boulder ...

Montclair State University

vMix Operator

Montclair, NJ · On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Assemble original NJ PBS programs, specials, and documentary content using the vMix environment ... Work with engineers to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues with cameras, audio systems ...

Montclair State

vMix Operator

Montclair, NJ · On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Assemble original NJ PBS programs, specials, and documentary content using the vMix environment ... Work with engineers to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues with cameras, audio systems ...

The Church of Eleven22

Media Producer

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

Generate fresh ideas for short-form documentary content and life-change stories * Shape interviews ... Physical Demands This role involves extended periods of sitting and standing while operating camera ...

Samsara

Lead Video Producer

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

You'll be behind the camera and in the timeline: documentary customer stories shot on job sites and out in the field with operators, product films that make complex technology clear, and brand work ...

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Documentary Camera Operator information

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How much do documentary camera operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for documentary camera operator in the United States is $25.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical working hours and environments for a documentary camera operator?

As a Documentary Camera Operator, your working hours can be irregular and often depend on the filming schedule, which might include early mornings, late evenings, or weekends, especially when capturing live events or real-world scenarios. You can expect to work both indoors and outdoors, sometimes in challenging or unpredictable environments, such as remote locations or busy public areas. Flexibility and physical stamina are important, as the job may require travel and carrying equipment. Team collaboration is common, working closely with directors, producers, and sound technicians to achieve the desired shots and storytelling goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a documentary camera operator?

A successful Documentary Camera Operator needs proficiency in operating professional video cameras, understanding lighting and sound basics, and a solid grasp of visual storytelling—often gained through technical training or a film degree. Familiarity with equipment like DSLRs, cinema cameras, gimbals, and editing software, as well as knowledge of industry-standard formats, is important, and some roles may require certifications in camera operation or safety. Excellent communication, adaptability, and the ability to work discreetly and collaboratively in diverse environments help operators thrive. These combined skills ensure compelling footage capture under varying conditions while supporting the documentary's creative vision.

What is a documentary camera operator?

A Documentary Camera Operator is responsible for capturing high-quality footage that tells a compelling story in a non-fiction format. They work closely with directors and producers to film interviews, real-life events, and on-location scenes. This role requires technical expertise in operating cameras, selecting the right equipment, and adjusting settings based on lighting and movement. Adaptability is crucial, as documentary filming often occurs in unpredictable environments. Strong storytelling skills and an eye for composition help convey the intended message effectively.

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Documentary Camera Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Documentary Camera Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,104 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Media Production Specialist (Fixed Term)

Vast

Long Beach, CA

$53 - $75/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Vast is seeking a Media Production Specialist to join its Media Production team, reporting to the Senior Manager, Media Production. The ideal candidate is a technically precise, visually driven filmmaker who brings both craft and adaptability to every shoot. This individual will serve as one of the team's camera operators across a range of content - from cinematic brand films and documentary-style shoots; to product photography, events, and social content - playing a central role in how Vast tells its story visually.

This is a hands-on, IC role for someone who identifies as a cinematographer first, but is comfortable expanding their contribution across production as the work demands. You'll operate independently on solo shoots and integrate as a collaborator on larger productions. The ability to move fluidly between roles - cinematographer, gaffer, photographer - without losing your eye or your standards is essential.

This is an in-person role based in Long Beach, CA and starts as an 3-month fixed-term-employment contract with the opportunity to extend.

Key Responsibilities

  • Cinematography: Serve as camera operator across video productions ranging from scripted brand films and documentary content to executive interviews, hardware showcases, and live events.
  • Light Sets: Design and execute lighting setups for both solo-op and full-crew productions. Integrate as gaffer or DoP on larger sets as needed.
  • Pre-Production: Contribute to shot listing, lighting diagrams, storyboarding, and location scouting to ensure shoots are set up for success before the day.
  • Solo Operation: Execute run-and-gun, single-operator productions independently - managing camera, audio, and lighting without additional crew.
  • Capture Photography: Shoot product, hardware, portrait, and event photography as needed, maintaining the same standard of craft as video work.
  • Maintain Equipment: Oversee the care, prep, and organization of camera and lighting gear to ensure readiness across all productions.

Required Qualifications

  • 4+ years of professional experience as a cinematographer, camera operator, or DoP across commercial, documentary, corporate, or brand content.
  • Deep proficiency with professional camera systems (ARRI, RED, Sony FX/Venice, Blackmagic) and a strong working knowledge of exposure, color science, and lens theory.
  • Hands-on experience designing and executing lighting setups - studio and on-location - with both large packages and available/limited resources.
  • Ability to operate as a solo shooter, small crew, or as part of a larger crew, adapting to each context without a drop in quality.
  • Strong eye for composition, movement, and visual storytelling - demonstrated through a portfolio that reflects range and intentionality.
  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities and tight timelines.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience shooting photography (product, hardware, portrait, events) in addition to video.
  • Experience with high quality location sound capture and interview setups.
  • Proficiency in photo retouching (Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop) and video editing (Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve).
  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (drone operation).
  • Bachelor's degree in Film, Cinematography, or a related field - or equivalent professional experience.
  • Experience in a startup, tech, or aerospace environment.
  • Willingness to travel up to 10% of the time.
  • Flexibility to work overtime or weekends to support critical mission milestones.

Pay Range:

  • Media Production Specialist I (Non-Exempt): $53/hr - $75/hr

  • Media Production Specialist II (Exempt): $123,000 - $174,000

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