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Freelance Aerial Camera Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Experience with LiDAR and high-end aerial camera systems The Aerial Sensor System Operator will play a key role infield operations performing aerial data collection, sensor installations, pre-flight ...

The Freelance Utility Operator will work in a dynamic and fluid production environment and be ... Train with camera operations on a variety of cameras including Pedestal, Robotics, Handheld, and ...

Freelance Studio Technician, DC Bureau

Washington, DC · On-site

$71 - $80.50/hr

Fox News Channel is seeking a multi-skilled Freelance StudioTechnician to join our DC Bureau. In ... camera operator, teleprompter operator, audio assistant, and video shader. A SNAPSHOT OF YOUR ...

Serve as principal camera operator for in-studio shoots (single or multi-cam), ensuring ... freelancers or crew and train them on studio equipment and protocols. * Collaborate with creative ...

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Freelance Aerial Camera Operator information

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$13

$28

$62

How much do freelance aerial camera operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance 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.

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

AspectFreelance Aerial Camera OperatorDrone Pilot
CredentialsCamera operation certifications, FAA Part 107 (if applicable)Drone pilot certification, FAA Part 107
Work EnvironmentFilm sets, production sites, outdoor locationsOutdoor, aerial filming, survey sites
Industry UsageFilm, television, commercialsSurveying, inspections, filmmaking

Both roles require FAA Part 107 certification and involve aerial work, but a Freelance Aerial Camera Operator focuses on capturing footage with specialized cameras, often in film and media projects. A Drone Pilot may perform a broader range of tasks, including surveying and inspections, using drones for various industries.

More about Freelance Aerial Camera Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Aerial Camera Operator jobs? Cities with the most Freelance 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 Freelance Aerial Camera Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Aerial Camera Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Freelance Aerial Camera Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 41% Physical, and 59% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,583 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

$350/day

Other

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

About BuzzFeed, Inc.

BuzzFeed, Inc. (Ticker: BZFD) is home to the best of the internet. Across food, news, pop culture, and commerce, our brands drive conversation and inspire what audiences watch, read, buy, and obsess over next. Born on the internet in 2006, BuzzFeed, Inc. is committed to improving it: providing trusted, quality, brand-safe news and entertainment to hundreds of millions of people; making content on the internet more inclusive, empathetic, and creative; and inspiring our audience to live better lives. We'll continue to recruit the best founders and creators to join us in this mission, with more additions like HuffPost to come.

Business Area: Content
Job Category: BuzzFeed Studios

Day Rate: $350.00
Union Status:
Non-Union 

BuzzFeed Inc. is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. We reserve the ability to adjust the final compensation for this role based on the final candidate's experience, skillset, certifications, and geography.

The Role

BuzzFeed Editorial Video is looking for a resourceful Camera Operator to bring their camera and skills to the LA/NY Office.  We are looking for a smart, skilled, passionate self-starter that can work seamlessly with the various departments on set within Editorial Video.

This is a project based freelance position based in BuzzFeed's office in Los Angeles/ New York City.

You Will

  • Operate camera equipment during shoots, ensuring proper framing, focus, and exposure
  • Execute shot lists and direction provided by the Director and Director of Photography
  • Set up, adjust, and break down camera gear, including tripods, rigs, and accessories
  • Maintain consistency in shot composition and visual continuity
  • Monitor technical quality, including audio (when applicable), focus, and image stability
  • Adapt quickly to on-set changes, including adjustments or challenges
  • Assist in troubleshooting camera or equipment issue

You Have

  • Experience operating cameras digital production 
  • Strong understanding of camera systems, lenses, and basic lighting principles
  • Ability to follow creative direction while maintaining technical precision
  • Familiarity with different shooting styles (handheld, tripod, gimbal, etc.)
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to work efficiently on set
  • Good communication and teamwork skills
  • Ability to come into the LA/NY office

Life at BuzzFeed, Inc.

We celebrate inclusion and are committed to equal opportunity employment. We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, and will not be discriminated against based on age, race, gender, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability, or any other protected category.

You can expect:

  • A supportive, inclusive atmosphere on a team that values your contributions
  • Opportunities for personal and professional growth through work experience, offerings from our in-house Learning @ BuzzFeed team, our Employee Resource Groups, and more