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Playback Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Hearst

Operations Director

Sacramento, CA

$45K - $56K/yr

... playback server operation; automated audio set-up and operation; robotic camera control system ... Experience operating broadcast equipment like switchers, audio boards, and cameras * Can deal with ...

Hearst Newspapers

Operations Director

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$45K - $56K/yr

... playback server operation; automated audio set-up and operation; robotic camera control system ... Experience operating broadcast equipment like switchers, audio boards, and cameras * Can deal with ...

Walmart

Distinguished, Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$169K - $338K/yr

... video playback surfaces, and emerging omni-channel retail experiences. Our team builds the ... Operating low-latency monetization systems where every additional millisecond directly impacts ...

Hearst

Operations Director

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$45K - $56K/yr

... playback server operation; automated audio set-up and operation; robotic camera control system ... Experience operating broadcast equipment like switchers, audio boards, and cameras * Can deal with ...

Hearst Newspapers

Operations Director

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$45K - $56K/yr

... playback server operation; automated audio set-up and operation; robotic camera control system ... Experience operating broadcast equipment like switchers, audio boards, and cameras * Can deal with ...

Hearst Newspapers

Operations Director

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$45K - $56K/yr

... playback server operation; automated audio set-up and operation; robotic camera control system ... Experience operating broadcast equipment like switchers, audio boards, and cameras * Can deal with ...

Hearst

Operations Director

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$45K - $56K/yr

... playback server operation; automated audio set-up and operation; robotic camera control system ... Experience operating broadcast equipment like switchers, audio boards, and cameras * Can deal with ...

Hearst

Operations Director

Sacramento, CA

$45K - $56K/yr

... playback server operation; automated audio set-up and operation; robotic camera control system ... Experience operating broadcast equipment like switchers, audio boards, and cameras * Can deal with ...

Hearst Television

Operations Director

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$45K - $56K/yr

... playback server operation; automated audio set-up and operation; robotic camera control system ... Experience operating broadcast equipment like switchers, audio boards, and cameras * Can deal with ...

Hearst Television

Operations Director

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$45K - $56K/yr

... playback server operation; automated audio set-up and operation; robotic camera control system ... Experience operating broadcast equipment like switchers, audio boards, and cameras * Can deal with ...

Walmart

Distinguished, Software Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$169K - $338K/yr

... video playback surfaces, and emerging omni-channel retail experiences. Our team builds the ... Operating low-latency monetization systems where every additional millisecond directly impacts ...

Walmart

Distinguished, Software Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$169K - $338K/yr

... video playback surfaces, and emerging omni-channel retail experiences. Our team builds the ... Operating low-latency monetization systems where every additional millisecond directly impacts ...

Walmart

Distinguished, Software Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$169K - $338K/yr

... video playback surfaces, and emerging omni-channel retail experiences. Our team builds the ... Operating low-latency monetization systems where every additional millisecond directly impacts ...

Walmart

Distinguished, Software Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$169K - $338K/yr

... video playback surfaces, and emerging omni-channel retail experiences. Our team builds the ... Operating low-latency monetization systems where every additional millisecond directly impacts ...

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All JobsPlayback Operator JobsPlayback Operator Jobs in California

Playback Operator information

See California salary details

$10

$22

$36

How much do playback operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for playback operator in California is $22.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $21.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a playback operator?

Playback Operators are professionals responsible for managing and operating video, audio, and multimedia playback during live events, broadcasts, or studio productions. They ensure that all pre-recorded content is played at the correct times and coordinates closely with directors and technical teams to maintain smooth transitions and accurate timing. Their role is essential in television, film, live concerts, and virtual events, where precise playback control is crucial for the production's success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a playback operator?

To thrive as a Playback Operator, you need a solid understanding of video and audio formats, broadcast workflows, and general AV technology, often supported by relevant education or experience in media production. Familiarity with industry-standard playback systems such as EVS, Avid, or Grass Valley, as well as basic troubleshooting skills, is typically required. Attention to detail, quick decision-making, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing live or pre-recorded content under tight deadlines. These skills ensure seamless broadcast operations, minimize technical errors, and support smooth collaboration within production teams.

What are some common challenges a playback operator may face during live broadcasts, and how can they be managed?

Playback Operators often encounter challenges such as last-minute content changes, strict timing requirements, and technical glitches during live broadcasts. Managing these requires strong attention to detail, quick troubleshooting skills, and effective communication with directors and production staff. Staying organized and maintaining up-to-date playback systems help minimize errors, while rehearsing cue points and having backup plans for critical content ensures smooth delivery under pressure.

What is the difference between Playback Operator vs Video Technician?

AspectPlayback OperatorVideo Technician
Required CredentialsTechnical training, certifications in media or AV technologyTechnical certifications, often in AV or broadcast technology
Work EnvironmentLive events, theaters, broadcast studiosBroadcast stations, production facilities, live events
Employer & Industry UsageEvent production companies, theaters, TV stationsBroadcast networks, AV service providers, production companies

While both roles involve handling video equipment, a Playback Operator primarily manages playback of media during live events or broadcasts, ensuring seamless video presentation. A Video Technician often has broader responsibilities, including setup, troubleshooting, and maintaining video systems. The roles overlap in technical skills and work environments, but Playback Operators focus more on media playback during live productions.

What are popular job titles related to Playback Operator jobs in California?

For Playback Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Playback Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Playback Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Playback Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Playback Operator job openings:

Playback Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Playback Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,303 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Operations Director

Sacramento, CA

Hearst
Motion Picture and Video Production • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Hearstexternal

$45K - $56K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Hearst rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

57th of 78 rated media

Job description

KCRA/KQCA TV, the news leader in Sacramento and a Hearst Television station, has an opening for a full-time Operations Director for our station's live newscasts. The Operations Director is responsible for the technical execution of linear live and live-to-tape, local news, and programming; direct, instruct and cue talent and other production crew members; graphic and clip playback server operation; automated audio set-up and operation; robotic camera control system operation. You will report to the News Operations Manager. This is an IBEW Union position.

Responsibilities

  • Oversee the visual direction of newscasts
  • Provide creative input and will work with the newscast producer and production crew
  • Responsible for clean technical execution of the look of the newscast
  • Call and punch a newscast

Requirements

  • 2+ years of experience in studio production and/or directing at a commercial television station
  • Experience operating broadcast equipment like switchers, audio boards, and cameras
  • Can deal with the stresses and pressures of time-sensitive newscast production
  • Must be willing to work varied shifts including weekends and holidays
  • Experience with ENPS, VIZ RT graphics and Bitcentral video playback would be helpful
  • Bilingual experience is a plus
  • Related military experience will be considered

Salary

The estimated base salary range for this role is between $45,032 and $56,524. The actual base pay offered is dependent upon many factors, such as transferable skills, work experience, business needs, market demands and conditions, including geographic location where the work will be performed, and other factors permitted by law. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future, and other factors permitted by law.

Values in Action

At Hearst Television we tell stories every day. Stories about people of all backgrounds, perspectives, and identities. That's why, behind the scenes, we believe in being an organization that fosters collaboration and open communication, ensuring that the content we create is authentic, accurate, and connected to the communities we serve.

Benefits

Hearst's benefit programs are modern, flexible and designed to focus on you. As a Hearst employee, you and your spouse or partner or dependents would have access to the following benefits.

  • Medical | Dental | Vision
  • 401(k) matching
  • Emotional Wellness Support
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • LGBTQ+ Health Services
  • Additional benefits to meet your and your family's needs
Hearst Television (HTV) owns and/or operates 35 television and two radio stations serving 27 media markets across 39 states reaching over 22 million U.S. television households. HTV is recognized as one of the industry's premier broadcasting companies and has been honored with numerous awards for distinguished journalism, industry innovation, and community service.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. we do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, creed, national, origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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