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Sports Camera Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Need your own broadcast quality gear (video camera, microphone, tripod, lavalier) * Must have experience shooting sports (high school football preferred) * Must be punctual * Must be willing to learn ...

Need your own broadcast quality gear (video camera, microphone, tripod, lavalier) * Must have experience shooting sports (high school football preferred) * Must be punctual * Must be willing to learn ...

Need your own broadcast quality gear (video camera, microphone, tripod, lavalier) * Must have experience shooting sports (high school football preferred) * Must be punctual * Must be willing to learn ...

Camera Operator * Camera Shader * CG - Ross Xpression * Daktronics Show Control * Ross Inception ... Minimum 1-2 years of experience working in a live broadcast or live sports environment, TV/Film ...

Camera Operator * Camera Shader * CG - Ross Xpression * Daktronics Show Control * Ross Inception ... Minimum 1-2 years of experience working in a live broadcast or live sports environment, TV/Film ...

Camera Operator * Camera Shader * CG - Ross Xpression * Daktronics Show Control * Ross Inception ... Minimum 1-2 years of experience working in a live broadcast or live sports environment, TV/Film ...

Camera Operator * Camera Shader * CG - Ross Xpression * Daktronics Show Control * Ross Inception ... Minimum 1-2 years of experience working in a live broadcast or live sports environment, TV/Film ...

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Sports Camera Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$27

$61

How much do sports camera operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for sports camera operator in California is $27.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $30.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Sports Camera Operator job?

A Sports Camera Operator is responsible for capturing live sports events using specialized cameras. They work closely with directors and production teams to follow the action, ensuring dynamic and high-quality footage. This role requires quick reflexes, an understanding of the game, and skill in operating various camera equipment. Sports Camera Operators may work on the field, in the stands, or with mounted cameras to provide different perspectives. Their work is essential for live broadcasts, replays, and highlight reels.

How to become a camera operator for sports?

To become a sports camera operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience in video production or broadcasting. Developing skills in operating professional camera equipment, understanding sports environments, and obtaining relevant certifications can improve job prospects; some positions may require working irregular hours or on-site at sporting events.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Sports Camera Operator position, and why are they important?

A Sports Camera Operator needs expertise in camera operation, knowledge of sports, and a keen sense of timing, often supported by a relevant degree or technical training in film, broadcasting, or photography. Familiarity with broadcast cameras, tripods, dollies, wireless transmission systems, and sometimes certifications from industry bodies like the Society of Camera Operators are commonly required. Attention to detail, the ability to stay calm under pressure, strong teamwork, and quick decision-making help operators excel in dynamic, live sports environments. These skills ensure that crucial moments are captured professionally and effectively for broadcast, contributing to high-quality sports coverage.

How much do NFL camera operators get paid?

NFL camera operators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the employer. They often work long hours during games and may need specialized training in camera equipment and broadcasting standards.

What are the typical work hours and conditions for a Sports Camera Operator at live sporting events?

Sports Camera Operators often work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as they need to cover live games and events that occur outside the standard 9-to-5 workday. The work environment is fast-paced and may involve outdoor stadiums, arenas, or remote locations, requiring operators to be on their feet for extended periods and sometimes work in challenging weather conditions. Teamwork is crucial—operators collaborate closely with directors, producers, and other camera crew members to capture the best possible footage. This dynamic setting offers valuable experience and networking opportunities that can lead to advancement into lead operator or director of photography roles over time.

How much do sports camera operators make?

Sports camera operators typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the level of sporting events covered. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators working at major events or for professional teams can earn higher salaries. Skills in camera operation, knowledge of broadcasting equipment, and certifications can influence earning potential.
What are the most commonly searched types of Sports Camera Operator jobs in California? The most popular types of Sports Camera Operator jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Sports Camera Operator jobs in California? For Sports Camera Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Sports Camera Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Sports Camera Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Sports Camera Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Sports Camera Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Sports Camera Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,816 per year, or $27.8 per hour.
Ontario Reign - Camera Operator (Part-Time)

Ontario Reign - Camera Operator (Part-Time)

AEG Worldwide

Ontario, CA

$16.90/hr

Other

Posted 25 days ago


Anschutz Entertainment Group rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Company Information

For more than 20 years, AEG has played a pivotal role in transforming sports and live entertainment. Annually, we host more than 160 million guests, promote more than 10,000 shows and present more than 22,000 events around the world. We are committed to innovation, artistry, and community, and leverage the power of our 300+ venues, leading sports franchises, marquee music brands, integrated entertainment districts, premier ticketing platform and global sponsorship activations, to create memorable moments that give the world reason to cheer.

Our business is interwoven with the human mind and heart, and we strive to build a diverse and inclusive company that reflects the artists, athletes, and fans that we host; reach beyond traditional boundaries to support the communities in which we operate; and minimize our impact on the environment by adopting sustainable practices throughout our business operations.

If you want to be challenged to up your game and make a difference, then join us in giving the world reason to cheer!

JOB DESCRIPTION:

AEG and the Ontario Reign are looking for talented individuals to join their game- day production team. All Game Day Camera Operators will be a part of the Reign's AHLTV broadcast team, through filming live game action, as well as the Reign's overall content creation team. Footage from Camera Operators will be used live on the Reign's AHLTV broadcast, as well as in postgame highlight packages and other Ontario Reign video segments and marketing materials, including those featured on social media, ontarioreign.com and other affiliated outlets. This position is a game-day only position and will be compensated hourly.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Film live, hockey action at the instruction of the Production Director. Camera operators must be able to creatively frame and capture live action, take direction from the production director and seamlessly transition between different shots to create a high-quality, professional online broadcast
  • Responsible for filming live game action from both tight and wide camera roles, detailed player shots, crowd shots and any other footage as directed by the Production Director
  • Troubleshooting - resolve technical or practical issues as they arise, such as shot focus, shot framing, shot impairment, camera malfunction, or other, on- the-go issues that may arise during a live production, plus an ability to take direction on correcting these issues on the fly
  • Equipment preparation/maintenance - prepare cameras and test angles or camera movements and ability to test, clean and maintain camera equipment, under the supervision of the production director

SPECIFIC JOB KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY:

The Camera Operator must possess the following knowledge, skills and abilities and be able to explain and demonstrate that he or she can perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation, using some other combination of skill and abilities:

  • Must be eager to create unique camera shots, have excellent communication with Director and production team and understand the basics of filming, exposure, focusing and composition
  • Working knowledge of film equipment preferred, including ability to assemble and position equipment (cameras, tripods, etc.)
  • Must have a flexible schedule including a willingness to work nights, weekends and holidays as applicable with the Reign's home schedule
  • Must be comfortable working in a fast paced, high-pressure environment
  • Able to attend most, if not all, home Reign games and arrive two hours before game time for each game.

QUALIFICATION STANDARDS:

Education:

  • High School Diploma or its equivalency

Experience:

  • A minimum of 2-4 years of related experience
  • Past experience working on a live-sports production is preferred, particularly experience shooting with DSLR's and HD/live streaming camcorders

Pay Scale: $16.90/hr

Bonus: This position is not eligible for a bonus under the current bonus plan requirements.

Benefits Part-time: This position may be eligible for benefits (ACA qualification).

AEG reserves the right to change or modify the employee's job description whether orally or in writing, at any time during the employment relationship.  AEG may require an employee to perform duties outside their normal description.

AEG's policy is to hire the most qualified applicants, and we comply with all applicable federal, state and local employment laws in making hiring and employee decisions.  We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate against applicants or employees on the basis of race, color, marital status, disability, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, genetic information, veteran status, or any other legally protected status recognized by applicable federal, state or local law.

Employer does not offer work visa sponsorship for this position.

#LI-Reign


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