Supports less experienced staff, freelancers, interns, and production assistants in resolving ... Experience operating HD/4K cinema and broadcast camera systems, lighting, and audio equipment.
Supports less experienced staff, freelancers, interns, and production assistants in resolving ... Experience operating HD/4K cinema and broadcast camera systems, lighting, and audio equipment.
... cameras, audio systems, intercom, KVM, and related infrastructure. * Ensure all control-room ... Train and support full-time, part-time, freelance, and student production personnel on proper ...
... cameras, audio systems, intercom, KVM, and related infrastructure. * Ensure all control-room ... Train and support full-time, part-time, freelance, and student production personnel on proper ...
Manager, Control Room Engineering | Full-Time | Ryan Field at Northwestern University
Evanston, IL · On-site
$70K - $80K/yr
... cameras, audio systems, intercom, KVM, and related infrastructure. * Ensure all control-room ... Train and support full-time, part-time, freelance, and student production personnel on proper ...
Manager, Control Room Engineering | Full-Time | Ryan Field at Northwestern University
Evanston, IL · On-site
$70K - $80K/yr
... cameras, audio systems, intercom, KVM, and related infrastructure. * Ensure all control-room ... Train and support full-time, part-time, freelance, and student production personnel on proper ...
Title Manager, Control Room Engineering | Full-Time | Ryan Field at Northwestern University
Evanston, IL · On-site
$70K - $80K/yr
... cameras, audio systems, intercom, KVM, and related infrastructure. * Ensure all control-room ... Train and support full-time, part-time, freelance, and student production personnel on proper ...
Title Manager, Control Room Engineering | Full-Time | Ryan Field at Northwestern University
Evanston, IL · On-site
$70K - $80K/yr
... cameras, audio systems, intercom, KVM, and related infrastructure. * Ensure all control-room ... Train and support full-time, part-time, freelance, and student production personnel on proper ...
Manager, Control Room Engineering | Full-Time | Ryan Field at Northwestern University
Evanston, IL · On-site
$70K - $80K/yr
... cameras, audio systems, intercom, KVM, and related infrastructure. * Ensure all control-room ... Train and support full-time, part-time, freelance, and student production personnel on proper ...
Manager, Control Room Engineering | Full-Time | Ryan Field at Northwestern University
Evanston, IL · On-site
$70K - $80K/yr
... cameras, audio systems, intercom, KVM, and related infrastructure. * Ensure all control-room ... Train and support full-time, part-time, freelance, and student production personnel on proper ...
UU Student - Other
Campus, IL · On-site
Experience operating DSLR, mirrorless, or professional video cameras (or demonstrated ability to ... Examples may include work created for social media, classes, student organizations, freelance ...
UU Student - Other
Campus, IL · On-site
Experience operating DSLR, mirrorless, or professional video cameras (or demonstrated ability to ... Examples may include work created for social media, classes, student organizations, freelance ...
Senior Director for Creative Services
Chicago, IL · On-site
$120 - $180/hr
... interns and freelancers, and contracted creative professionals. * Foster a collaborative ... Manage a substantial operating budget, making strategic decisions regarding technology investments ...
Senior Director for Creative Services
Chicago, IL · On-site
$120 - $180/hr
... interns and freelancers, and contracted creative professionals. * Foster a collaborative ... Manage a substantial operating budget, making strategic decisions regarding technology investments ...
Freelance Camera Operator information
See Illinois salary details
$16.50 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$13.04 - $17.36
31% of jobs
The median wage is $21.07 / hr.
$17.36 - $21.68
22% of jobs
$21.68 - $26
18% of jobs
$27.73 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$26 - $30.32
10% of jobs
$30.32 - $34.64
9% of jobs
$34.64 - $38.96
5% of jobs
$38.96 - $43.28
1% of jobs
$43.28 - $47.60
0% of jobs
$47.60 - $51.92
0% of jobs
$51.92 - $56.24
0% of jobs
$56.24 - $60.56
3% of jobs
$13
$27
$60
How much do freelance camera operator jobs pay per hour?
What is a freelance camera operator?
A Freelance Camera Operator is a self-employed professional who operates cameras for various productions, such as films, TV shows, news broadcasts, live events, and corporate videos. They work on a project-by-project basis, collaborating with directors, producers, and other crew members to capture high-quality visuals. Responsibilities include setting up camera equipment, adjusting shots for lighting and composition, and ensuring smooth footage. Since they work independently, they must network, manage clients, and maintain their equipment.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance camera operator?
To thrive as a Freelance Camera Operator, you need strong expertise in camera operation, framing, exposure control, and a solid grasp of visual storytelling, often supported by formal training or on-the-job experience. Familiarity with industry-standard cameras, stabilizers, lighting equipment, and editing software like Adobe Premiere or Final Cut Pro is essential, and some projects may require certification in drone operation or safety protocols. Excellent communication, adaptability, and problem-solving skills help you collaborate with directors and crews while managing dynamic set environments. These skills ensure you can consistently deliver high-quality footage, meet client expectations, and successfully navigate the fast-paced demands of freelance assignments.
What are some common challenges freelance camera operators face, and how can they overcome them?
Freelance Camera Operators often encounter challenges such as unpredictable work schedules, fluctuating client demands, and the need to adapt quickly to different shooting environments. Building a robust professional network, staying updated on the latest technologies, and maintaining a diverse portfolio can help secure new projects and stand out in a competitive market. Organization and self-marketing are key, as managing your own bookings, contracts, and equipment maintenance is part of the freelance lifestyle. Keeping flexible and being proactive in communication will help you deliver quality work and foster strong client relationships.
What are the most commonly searched types of Camera Operator jobs in Illinois?
The most popular types of Camera Operator jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Camera Operator jobs in Illinois?
For Freelance Camera Operator jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Camera Operator jobs in Illinois look for?
The top searched job categories for Freelance Camera Operator jobs in Illinois are:

Video Producer/Editor
Campus, IL
Full-time
Re-posted 21 days ago
Job description
Job Summary
WGCU is Southwest Florida's source for PBS and NPR. A member-supported service of Florida Gulf Coast University, WGCU provides educational programming that inspires, informs and engages our community. Serving all or part of 12 counties in south and Southwest Florida, with five distinct digital TV channels, two FM radio channels, two HD radio channels, and multiple websites, WGCU delivers national and international programming, and develops, produces and delivers relevant, informative and educational local programs to the region.
FGCU is building a culture of curiosity, commitment and collaboration. We value employees who successfully work with others and drive positive change through critical thinking and decisive action. If you thrive in an environment of innovation, accountability and mutual respect, you will find a good home here.
Job Description
Typical duties include but are not limited to:
- Produces, writes, directs, shoots, and edits longform and shortform video productions.
- Develops compelling visual stories utilizing interviews, archival materials, b-roll, graphics, and cinematic storytelling techniques.
- Executes productions from concept development through final delivery and deployment across broadcast, web, social, and streaming platforms.
- Operates professional camera systems, lenses, lighting, audio equipment, and related field production gear to capture high-quality video and audio content in studio and field environments.
- Edits and finishes content using advanced post-production techniques, including non-linear editing, sound design, color correction within Adobe Creative Suite, to deliver distribution-ready content across multiple platforms.
- Produces content across a range of shooting and editing styles, including cinematic documentary storytelling, broadcast news, fast-paced digital content and social media formats.
- Oversees and assists with studio and field productions including, lighting, set design, audio capture, and multi-camera workflows.
- Writes, edits, and produces station branding and promotional videos and spots.
- Assists with writing program promotions online, on-air and off air.
- Creates and optimizes content for digital, social, broadcast, and marketing use, applying best practices for pacing, engagement, formatting, and platform distribution.
- Coordinates production logistics, including scheduling, locations, filming permits, releases, and talent management, while ensuring contracts and agreements are following university approval processes.
- May direct live or recorded productions, utilizing production switchboard systems as needed.
- Collaborates with producers, clients, stakeholders, talent and creative teams incorporating feedback and creative direction.
- Supports less experienced staff, freelancers, interns, and production assistants in resolving complex production challenges by providing guidance and technical expertise as needed.
- Maintains organized project workflows, media management practices, and production schedules to ensure timely delivery of projects.
- Serves as essential personnel and provides assistance and production support during special events, breaking coverage, or emergency situations as needed.
Other Duties:
- May supervise student workers, interns, or OPS staff as assigned.
- Participates in on-air fundraising campaigns.
- Performs other job-related duties as assigned.
Additional Job Description
Required Qualifications:
- This position requires either nine years of directly related full-time experience or, as an alternative, a Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in an appropriate area of specialization and five years of full-time experience directly related to the job functions.
- Professional experience in video production, videography, and post-production editing.
- Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite or similar industry-standard editing software.
- Experience editing content for broadcast, web, streaming or social media platforms.
- Any appropriate combination of relevant education, experience, and/or certifications may be considered.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Master's Degree from an accredited institution in an appropriate area of specialization.
- Experience producing, scripting, shooting and editing documentary, commercial, promotional, news, or broadcast video content.
- Experience operating HD/4K cinema and broadcast camera systems, lighting, and audio equipment.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
- Proven ability to think strategically and approach challenges with creativity.
- Demonstrated track record of reliability, meeting goals, and holding oneself accountable.
- Strong interpersonal skills and experience working effectively across teams.
- Strong understanding of storytelling structure, pacing, visual composition, interview techniques and digital audience engagement.
- Knowledge of public broadcasting industry; awareness of new techniques and practices.
- Knowledge of policies, procedures, and guidelines established by professional organizations and/or governing agencies.
- Excellent oral, verbal, and written communication skills.
- Skill in current digital video editing and general desktop software applications.
- Skill in researching topics for news, longform storytelling, and/or interview broadcasts utilizing various resources.
- Strong organizational skills and an ability to prioritize and complete simultaneous projects within deadlines.
- Ability to establish and maintain a good rapport with university faculty, staff, students, and the general public.
- Ability to serve as camera operator for live, multi-camera studio productions.
- Ability to maintain high journalistic standards.
- Ability to adapt quickly to changing situations and environments.
- Ability to use microphones, portable recording devices, and both radio and TV studio production equipment.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively with others or in a team.
- Ability to collaborate and work effectively within the community and willing to contribute to a team effort.
- Ability to diffuse and respond professionally to stressful situations and difficult people.
Institutional Values & Behavioral Expectation
In this role, the successful candidate will be expected to:
- Seek out new approaches to improve outcomes; remain open for feedback and new ideas.
- Lead with integrity; consistently produce high-quality work; persevere to overcome obstacles to meet deadlines and achieve deliverables.
- Share information and insights thoughtfully; build partnerships across departments; communicate respectfully; support colleagues to achieve common goals.
Applicants are required to include links to demo reels or examples of videography or editing work within their application materials.
Pay Grade 17
FGCU is a State University System of Florida member and an Equal Opportunity and Equal Access employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.