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Photo Researcher Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

... research promotional photography and other photography productions. * Pre-Production: Brainstorms and develops photo concepts in cooperation with existing University brand initiatives; Attends weekly ...

... research promotional photography and other photography productions. * Pre-Production: Brainstorms and develops photo concepts in cooperation with existing University brand initiatives; Attends weekly ...

With stories involving art, provide design director with ideas and research for all art and maps. Provide photo editor with list of photo needs for stories involving photos, including possible ...

Multimedia Intern

Newport News, VA · On-site

$37K - $44K/yr

Responsible for assisting the Multimedia Photo and Video Specialist in a variety of photography and ... research presentations, websites, social media, and internal and external communication needs.

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Photo Researcher information

See Virginia salary details

$29.7K

$112.1K

$163.1K

How much do photo researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for photo researcher in Virginia is $112,132.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,400.00 and $152,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a photo researcher?

A Photo Researcher is responsible for finding, licensing, and acquiring images for publications, media projects, or marketing materials. They work with stock agencies, archives, and photographers to source high-quality visuals that match project needs. They must verify copyright details, negotiate usage rights, and ensure compliance with licensing agreements. Strong research skills, attention to detail, and an understanding of visual composition are essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a photo researcher?

To thrive as a Photo Researcher, you need expertise in sourcing, licensing, and cataloging images, often supported by a degree in art, history, media, or a related field. Familiarity with image databases, rights management platforms, and tools like Adobe Photoshop is commonly required. Exceptional attention to detail, organizational skills, and effective communication set top candidates apart. These abilities ensure accurate, legal, and timely acquisition of images that meet project needs and client expectations.

What are the typical challenges faced by photo researchers on the job?

Photo Researchers often face challenges such as locating high-quality, rights-cleared images that meet specific project criteria and tight deadlines. Navigating complex copyright laws and negotiating usage rights with agencies or photographers is a common aspect of the job. Collaboration with editors, designers, and legal teams is frequent, requiring adaptability and clear communication. Overcoming these challenges helps ensure projects use compelling visuals while staying compliant with legal and budgetary requirements.

What are popular job titles related to Photo Researcher jobs in Virginia?

For Photo Researcher jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Photo Researcher job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 40% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,132 per year, or $53.9 per hour.

Communications and Digital Media Manager

Virginia Tech

Blacksburg, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Virginia Tech rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 66 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

237th of 631 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Communications and Digital Media Manager

Apply now Back to search results Job no: 537397
Work type: Administrative & Professional
Senior management: Vice President for Research
Department: Fralin Biomedical Res. Institute
Location: Roanoke, Virginia
Categories: Research / Scientific

Job Description

The Communications and Digital Media Manager supports the growing needs of the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute and the Health Sciences and Technology campus. Reporting to the Director of Communications, the Communications and Digital Media Manager will provide communications strategy and technological expertise to the institute; produce high-quality products for research, fundraising and marketing efforts; and execute photography, videography, production, editorial, and administrative functions in all areas of marketing, publications, publicity, events, social media, print, and web communications. The Communications and Digital Medial Manager will plan and execute comprehensive traditional and digital media packages, work on daily assignments to develop story ideas, contact sources, shoot and produce videos, and take pictures for posting to the Virginia Tech News site, the FBRI, TBMH and HS&T homepages, official social media channels, and other platforms, including consortium and research conference communications. The manager will assist in efforts to market FBRI initiatives, create electronic campaign strategies, distribute the e-newsletter, and support Giving Day, Advisory Board, and other Advancement initiatives. The manager is part of a collaborative team working to create and distribute branded promotional multimedia. Specific areas of responsibility include planning, scheduling and producing creative services deliverables. Additionally, the incumbent will:
Serve as chief photographer for the Research Institute and Virginia Tech Health Sciences and Technology. Provide professional photography and photographic editing, create photo galleries, schedule photo shoots, conduct photo research, collect photo releases, maintain photo library.
Produce video and multimedia stories to emphasize the value and wonder of biomedical research, and to build good will and financial support.
Collaborate with University Relations, School of Medicine, Veterinary Medicine and Carilion Clinic multimedia teams on projects.
Maintain video library.
Interact with the FBRI Advisory Board as needed, providing counsel and assistance in digital and social media.
Advise and train faculty and graduate students on best social media practices.
Contribute to the development and production of the FBRI website and social media presence, drafting online-exclusive material, entering images and text in the content management system, and participating in the website redesign.
Serve as a video production resource for the FBRI and its programs such as TBMH, and collaborate with University Relations photographers and videographers on university-wide news and philanthropy projects.
Execute graphic design and editing services for print brochures, advancement one-pagers, Powerpoint presentations, and other products as needed, from creation to the printer or digital page. Create monitor flyers and videos.
Produce e-newsletters as needed.
Serve as a member of a team providing administrative support to the Fralin website's content management system, including entry of new employee data.
Provide technical advice, information or logistical specifications when nee3ded; establishes details of programs/exhibits; and/or obtains materials, equipment, or services through contacts with students, faculty, internal staff, vendors, donors, and or volunteers.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in communications or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Considerable knowledge of webcasting, AV technology, digital photography/videography, advanced photographic techniques, and professional quality standards.
Prior communications experience in media relations, communication plans, digital marketing, photography, and production.
Demonstrated ability to work as a member of a team and independently, to work under tight deadlines, and to assume responsibility for accurate completion of assignments.
Excellent communication, interpersonal, time management, and organizational skills.
Demonstrated facility with computers and an understanding of web-development tools.
Proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite software, especially InDesign, Photoshop, and Adobe Premiere Pro.
Knowledge of standard office suite software, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Preferred Qualifications

Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

Starting at $75,000; Commensurate with Experience

Hours per week

40

Review Date

9/9/2026

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance.  These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Brittany Shelton at sheltb@vtc.vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

Advertised: August 26, 2026
Applications close:

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About Virginia Tech

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Virginia Tech, guided by its motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve), embraces a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to educate scholars as leaders and problem-solvers. As a comprehensive land-grant institution, it enriches the quality of life in Virginia and worldwide, fostering an inclusive community focused on knowledge, discovery, and creativity. With over 280 majors, the university serves a diverse student body of more than 36,000 across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Virginia Tech's presence extends throughout Virginia, including campuses in Northern Virginia, Roanoke, Newport News, and Richmond, along with multiple Extension offices and research centers. As a prominent global research institution, it conducts over $500 million in research annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Blacksburg, VA, US

Year founded

1872

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