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Full Time Documentary Camera Operator Jobs in California

AdvancedPCB

CAM Operator II

Placentia, CA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Job Type Full-time Description AdvancedPCB is seeking a reliable, motivated CAM Operator who is looking for an exciting and rewarding opportunity. The ideal candidate must be able to work in a fast ...

AdvancedPCB

CAM Operator III

Orange, CA · On-site

$28 - $39/hr

Job Type Full-time Description CAM Operator III Location: Placentia, CA Shift: 1st (6:00 am - 2:30 pm) Description Scope: Translate and transform customer-supplied design data into panelized tools ...

Crooked Media

Associate Video Producer

Los Angeles, CA

$80K/yr

Directly upload video content to platforms for publishing Assist and act as Camera Operator on Off ... In addition to your salary, we also offer full-time employees excellent benefits, including: * Paid ...

Muon Space

Camera Test Engineer II

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$159K - $184K/yr

Experience operating small thermal ovens and TVAC chambers. * Experience working in cleanroom ... In addition to salary, full-time employees receive equity compensation as well as benefits ...

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 ...

Crooked Media

Associate Video Producer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$80K/yr

Directly upload video content to platforms for publishing Assist and act as Camera Operator on Off ... In addition to your salary, we also offer full-time employees excellent benefits, including: * Paid ...

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Full Time Documentary Camera Operator information

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Full Time Documentary Camera Operator jobs near you

Media Production Specialist (Fixed Term)

Vast

Long Beach, CA

$53 - $75/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

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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