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Entry Level Aerial Camera Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SkyCam ® is a leading designer, manufacturer and operator of mobile aerial cameras systems. SkyCam ® plays a significant role in changing the way live sporting events are broadcast, including NFL ...

Located in Fort Worth, Texas, SkyCam ® is a leading designer, manufacturer, and worldwide operator of aerial camera systems. We play a significant role in changing the way live sporting and ...

SkyCam rigger

Fort Worth, TX

$21.50 - $27.75/hr

SkyCam ® is a leading designer, manufacturer and operator of mobile aerial cameras systems. SkyCam ® plays a significant role in changing the way live sporting events are broadcast, including NFL ...

SkyCam rigger

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$23 - $29.75/hr

SkyCam ® is a leading designer, manufacturer and operator of mobile aerial cameras systems. SkyCam ® plays a significant role in changing the way live sporting events are broadcast, including NFL ...

This is an entry level position that primarily consists of assisting with the installation of ... points, cameras, access control devices and other low voltage cabling and devices. Essential ...

This is an entry level position that primarily consists of assisting with the installation of ... points, cameras, access control devices and other low voltage cabling and devices. Essential ...

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Entry Level Aerial Camera Operator information

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$13

$28

$62

How much do entry level aerial camera operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level aerial 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.

How much is a camera operator paid?

Entry level aerial camera operators typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of equipment used. Pay can increase with additional skills such as drone operation or video editing, and some may work freelance or on a project basis.

How to get experience as a camera operator?

Entry level aerial camera operators typically gain experience through internships, volunteering for local productions, or assisting experienced operators. Developing skills in camera handling, understanding drone or aerial equipment, and obtaining relevant certifications can improve job prospects and hands-on experience.

What is the difference between Entry Level Aerial Camera Operator vs Drone Pilot?

AspectEntry Level Aerial Camera OperatorDrone Pilot
CertificationsBasic FAA Part 107 certification often requiredFAA Part 107 certification typically required
Work EnvironmentFilm sets, construction sites, real estate shootsAerial surveys, filming, inspections
Industry UsageMedia production, real estate, constructionMedia, agriculture, inspection services

Both roles often require FAA Part 107 certification and involve operating drones or aerial cameras in similar environments. However, a Drone Pilot may focus more on flying and technical operation, while an Entry Level Aerial Camera Operator emphasizes capturing footage or images. The roles overlap in industry use and certification requirements, but their primary responsibilities differ slightly based on focus and application.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

An entry level aerial camera operator can potentially earn around $10,000 a month through freelance work, specialized drone photography, or working in high-demand industries like film production or real estate. Success often depends on skills, experience, and the ability to secure high-paying contracts, rather than formal education alone.

How can I work in film with no experience?

Entry level aerial camera operators can start by gaining basic knowledge of camera equipment, drone operation, and safety procedures. Building a portfolio with personal or volunteer projects and obtaining relevant certifications, such as drone licenses, can improve job prospects without prior professional experience.
More about Entry Level Aerial Camera Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Aerial Camera Operator jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Aerial Camera Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Aerial Camera Operator jobs? The most popular types of Aerial Camera Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Aerial Camera Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Aerial Camera Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Aerial Camera Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Aerial Camera Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Aerial Camera Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 59% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,583 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

Airborne Systems Operator (ASO)

Aethon Aerial Solutions

Livermore, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

This is a Field positionPosition Summary

The Airborne Systems Operator plays a key role in the Field Operations workflow capturing data and imagery for company and customer requirements. Accomplishing operations, system installation, preflight / postflight inspections, maintenance, and limited repair effort for airborne sensor systems and GPS instruments on airborne platforms. This is a field-based position that will work remotely when not accomplishing company or customer requirements.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:

  • Operating airborne sensor platforms in Electric Utility environment
  • Record and update flight logs and daily reports
  • Monitor the quality of collected data
  • Routine maintenance and troubleshooting of in-flight equipment
  • Pre-flight / Post-flight, check navigation trajectories to ensure data coverage
  • Participate in the quality management system, by working to document processes and procedures, plus offering recommendations on improvement opportunities
  • Troubleshoot & make limited system repairs
  • Follow & help improve best practices for troubleshooting of integrated systems.
  • Integration, tuning and testing of optical devices.
  • Operation of proprietary software to debug, tune, and test complex electromechanical systems.
  • Work to deadlines to meet delivery dates for both internal and external customers.
  • Interact with other departments to resolve problems and provide continuous improvement to reflect operational results and goals.
  • Field Support for system installation/calibration, customer training and program/process development.
  • Continually improve the companies process for system specification, configuration control and documentation.
Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)
  • Familiar with troubleshooting techniques and ability to read technical drawings, data sheets and schematics.
  • Strong and professional customer relations skills.
  • Ability to work within a Microsoft Office environment including knowledge of Windows, Excel, and Word.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Ability to work to company deadlines to meet customer delivery dates.
  • Work in teams to continuously improve operations and processes.
  • DISIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • One year of Helicopter Crewmember experience (Flight Engineer, Flight Mechanic, Crew Chief)
  • 2 Years of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) experience (Group 2, 2/3, 3) with Remote Pilot License (Part 107)
  • Prior Airborne Payload Operator experience
  • Installation and maintenance of sensors (Ex. LiDAR, GPS and Specialized Camera Sensors)
  • Associates or bachelor’s degree in electronics, aircraft systems, remote sensing, unmanned systems, mechanical technology or equivalent
  • Physical Demands and Work Environment

    The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions.

    This role is a field position that requires flying in the back of a helicopter in all weather conditions for extended hours. System installation, troubleshooting, repair, and removal is primarily accomplished in active flight line environmental conditions. There are long periods of standing, sitting, and working in and around aircraft with all associated hazards that come with this environment. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be required during administration of certain tasks as well as being able to individually lift 70lbs.

Aethon is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds.

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