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Television Camera Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

... with camera operators, directors, and technical crews. Ensure smooth and efficient studio and ... TV. Salem Media Group is a top radio broadcaster, digital publisher, and "Great Place to Work ...

Dispatch Operator

Reston, VA · On-site

$29.26/hr

Monitor in-house closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras * Perform dispatching duties for other locations in the event of a failure * Assist in the training of dispatcher trainees * Routinely test ...

Be Seen First

... Television (CCTV), Dynamic Message Signs (DMS), and Highway Advisory Radio (HAR) systems * Real ... camera displays, meters, law enforcement radio broadcasts, answering/responding to calls and ...

Training provided

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Television Camera Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$27

$61

How much do television camera operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for television camera operator in Virginia is $27.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $30.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Television Camera Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Television Camera Operator, you need a solid understanding of camera equipment, framing, and lighting techniques, often supported by a degree or certificate in film, broadcasting, or a related field. Familiarity with broadcast cameras, studio equipment, and video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro is typically required. Strong communication, adaptability, and attention to detail are crucial soft skills for collaborating with directors and crew in fast-paced environments. These skills ensure high-quality visual content and smooth production workflows, which are critical for successful television broadcasts.

How much do reality TV camera operators make?

Reality TV camera operators typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the production company's budget. Experienced operators with specialized skills or working on high-profile projects can earn higher wages, and many work irregular hours on set or location shoots.

How to become a camera operator for TV?

To become a television camera operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or an associate degree in broadcasting, film, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions, developing skills with camera equipment and editing software, and obtaining certifications such as those from professional broadcasting organizations can improve job prospects.

How much do TV cameramen make?

TV camera operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators working on major productions can earn higher wages and overtime pay. Skills in operating professional cameras and understanding broadcast technology are essential for higher earnings.

What is the difference between Television Camera Operator vs Video Camera Operator?

AspectTelevision Camera OperatorVideo Camera Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical training, possibly broadcast certificationsHigh school diploma, technical training, sometimes broadcast or production certifications
Work EnvironmentBroadcast studios, live TV, news, sports eventsFilm sets, corporate videos, events, commercials
Industry UsagePrimarily in television broadcasting and live productionsFilm, corporate, and event videography

Television Camera Operators focus on live broadcast environments like news and sports, requiring specific broadcast skills and certifications. Video Camera Operators work across various video production settings, including film and corporate videos, with a broader scope of work. Both roles require technical proficiency with camera equipment but differ mainly in work environment and industry focus.

How much do TV camera people get paid?

TV camera operators typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators working on major productions can earn higher salaries, especially with specialized skills and certifications.

What does a Television Camera Operator do?

A Television Camera Operator is responsible for capturing video footage for television programs, news broadcasts, live events, and other productions. They operate cameras and related equipment, framing shots and following directions from directors to ensure the right visuals are recorded. Camera operators may work in studios or on location, and often collaborate closely with producers, directors, and other crew members. Their work is essential for delivering high-quality visuals that appear on television screens.

What are some common challenges faced by Television Camera Operators during live broadcasts?

Television Camera Operators often face challenges such as adapting quickly to unexpected changes in the script, lighting, or action on set during live broadcasts. They must maintain steady, well-framed shots while moving and reacting to cues from the director, sometimes in fast-paced or crowded environments. Managing equipment and troubleshooting technical issues on the fly is also common. Teamwork and clear communication with the production crew are essential to ensure seamless coverage and high-quality visuals.
What are popular job titles related to Television Camera Operator jobs in Virginia? For Television Camera Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Television Camera Operator jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Television Camera Operator jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Television Camera Operator job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,081 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

DIRECTOR/MASTER CONTROL OPERATOR (TMP - ASSO) - WDBJ

Gray Television

Roanoke, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 hours ago


Gray Television rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 68 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 75 rated media


Job description

About Gray Media:
Today, we are a growing multimedia company headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. We are the nation's largest owner of top-rated local television stations and digital assets serving 117 full-power television markets that collectively reach approximately 37% of US television households. The portfolio includes 80 markets with the top-rated television station and 100 markets with the first- and/or second-highest-rated television station in average all-day ratings across 116 such markets measured by Nielsen in 2025. We also own the largest Telemundo Affiliate group, with 47 markets, and Gray Digital Media, a full-service digital agency offering national and local clients digital marketing strategies and the most advanced digital products and services. Our additional media properties include video production companies Raycom Sports, Tupelo Media Group, and PowerNation Studios, and studio production facilities Assembly Atlanta and Third Rail Studios.
About WDBJ:
WDBJ7, WZBJ, and WDBJ7.com are a Gray-owned dominant CBS-affiliated media powerhouse in beautiful Roanoke, Virginia. Known as "Your Hometown Station®", WDBJ7 and WZBJ serve 26 counties across the Blue Ridge Mountain region and produce more than 55 hours of award-winning local news coverage, more than any of its competitors in the Roanoke/Lynchburg market.
Job Summary/Description:
The #1 station in the Roanoke/Lynchburg market is looking for a technically savvy individual to work in our state-of-the-art Multimedia Control Center. The person we hire will direct newscasts in addition to performing duties associated with broadcasting WDBJ7's television signal. The successful candidate will work directly with the newscast producers and anchors to put together fast-paced live news broadcasts. The individual will be responsible for all technical aspects of the newscast, including video, audio, graphics, transitions, and camera movements. If you want to work on an incredible team while growing your technical and leadership skills, we want to hear from you. Candidates should email Megan Kanode at mkanode@wdbj7.com and also apply at https://www.gray.tv/applynow.
Duties/Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
• Prepare and direct live and pre-recorded productions for WDBJ and WDBJ.com
• Work with other departments, including WDBJ's newsroom, to coordinate and produce top-rated television and digital programs
• Monitor on-air signals for WDBJ and ingest daily programming and commercials
• Operate Viz Mosart (including cameras and audio console), Photoshop software, and supporting equipment in the WDBJ media control center
• Occasional operation of Edius and Premiere Pro editing software
• Regular care and maintenance of equipment and studio
• Work closely with other departments to meet daily demands as necessary
• Work with VizRT automation, master control video switcher, and NVerzion automation, Adobe Photoshop, and all supporting equipment in Production/Master Control; including the ability to effectively perform at the following: robotic camera operation, audio operation, commercial/promo ingesting, satellite operation, program ingesting/segmenting, and a working knowledge of web production.
• Understanding of FCC program and transmitter logs, and all FCC broadcast regulations.
• Work with ENPS, the newsroom computer system.
• Understanding of all equipment in studios and production areas.
• Dedication to the care of equipment.
• Work closely with all other departments to meet all daily demands.
• Training of new personnel as assigned.
• Variable work schedule due to changing shifts, turnover, and station projects. Work assignments will at times include mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Other Duties as Assigned
Qualifications/Requirements:
• 6 months to 1 year of experience in TV production and/or master control
If you feel you're qualified and want to work with a great group of people, go to https://gray.tv/careers#currentopenings, you may type in the job title, station call letters, or click on "apply now", upload your resume, cover letter, and references
(Current employees who are interested in this position can apply through the Gray-TV UltiPro self-service portal)
WDBJ-TV/Gray Media is a drug-free company
Additional Info:
Gray Media provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Gray Media complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
Gray Media expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of Gray's employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including discharge.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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