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Video Camera Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Rothe Development, Inc.

Videographer II

Edwards, CA

$71K - $82K/yr

... delivering high‑quality video products that support scientific research, public affairs ... You will serve as a camera operator during press conferences, large events, auditorium productions ...

Apple

Camera Embedded Software Engineer

Cupertino, CA

$147K - $272K/yr

The Video Engineering team is behind the cutting-edge camera and imaging technologies that power ... Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS) or bare-metal environments. Excellent ...

Rothe Development, Inc.

Videographer II

Edwards, CA · On-site

$71K - $82K/yr

... delivering high‑quality video products that support scientific research, public affairs ... You will serve as a camera operator during press conferences, large events, auditorium productions ...

Apple

Embedded Quality Engineer - Camera

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$162K - $213K/yr

Understanding of camera technologies, image signal processing (ISP) pipeline, 3A, video formats, and color space is a plus. Familiarity with command-line operation of operating systems such as macOS ...

WOWK-TV

Photographer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$20/hr

The News Photographer operates television or video cameras to record images or scenes for news ... Minimum two years' experience operating video recording equipment (More for larger markets and less ...

Nexstar Media Group

Photographer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$20/hr

The News Photographer operates television or video cameras to record images or scenes for news ... Minimum two years' experience operating video recording equipment (More for larger markets and less ...

Nexstar Media Group

Photographer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$20/hr

The News Photographer operates television or video cameras to record images or scenes for news ... Minimum two years' experience operating video recording equipment (More for larger markets and less ...

Tribune Media

Photographer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$20/hr

The News Photographer operates television or video cameras to record images or scenes for news ... Minimum two years' experience operating video recording equipment (More for larger markets and less ...

WOWK-TV

Photographer

Sacramento, CA

$20/hr

The News Photographer operates television or video cameras to record images or scenes for news ... Minimum two years' experience operating video recording equipment (More for larger markets and less ...

Tribune Media

Photographer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$20/hr

The News Photographer operates television or video cameras to record images or scenes for news ... Minimum two years' experience operating video recording equipment (More for larger markets and less ...

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All JobsVideo Camera Operator JobsVideo Camera Operator Jobs in California

Video Camera Operator information

See California salary details

$5

$25

$56

How much do video camera operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for video camera operator in California is $25.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $28.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Video Camera Operators on set and how can they be managed?

Video Camera Operators often work in fast-paced environments where lighting, movement, and timing can change rapidly. One major challenge is adapting to variable lighting conditions, which requires technical proficiency and quick adjustments to camera settings. Additionally, operators must maintain steady shots while moving or working in tight spaces, often collaborating closely with directors and other crew members to capture the desired footage. Effective communication, preparation, and continuous practice with equipment can help manage these challenges and ensure high-quality results.

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

To thrive as a Video Camera Operator, you need a solid understanding of camera equipment, framing, lighting, and shot composition, often supported by a relevant degree or hands-on experience. Familiarity with professional video cameras, editing software, and broadcast or streaming systems is typically required. Attention to detail, creativity, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for collaborating on set and capturing compelling footage. These skills ensure high-quality visual storytelling and smooth technical execution in various production environments.

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

AspectVideo Camera OperatorCamera Assistant
CredentialsRelevant training, certifications often preferredSimilar certifications, focus on technical support
Work EnvironmentOn-set filming, live events, studiosAssist with equipment setup, maintenance, and support
Industry UsageFilm, TV, broadcasting, live eventsFilm and TV production, often working under camera operators

While both roles work closely on video production sets, the Video Camera Operator is primarily responsible for capturing footage, whereas the Camera Assistant supports with equipment setup and maintenance. The roles often overlap but differ in focus and responsibilities within the production process.

What does a Video Camera Operator do?

A Video Camera Operator is responsible for capturing moving images for television, film, or live broadcasts using professional video cameras and related equipment. They work closely with directors and other crew members to frame shots, follow action, and ensure high-quality footage. Their tasks often include setting up cameras, adjusting focus and exposure, and troubleshooting technical issues on set. Video Camera Operators must have a good eye for detail, strong technical skills, and the ability to adapt to fast-paced environments.

What Is the Job of a Video Camera Operator?

A video camera operator records footage for films, live television, TV shows, commercials, music or theatrical productions, and live sporting events. As a video camera operator, your job duties include shooting either short format or long format video footage, editing recorded footage, and collaborating with other camera operators, the director, and the sound technicians. You ensure that the video you created for entertainment or informative purposes meets expectations and is of the utmost quality. You may work for a specific television or film studio, or you may have to travel for your job.

More about Video Camera Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Video Camera Operator jobs in California? The most popular types of Video Camera Operator jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Video Camera Operator jobs in California? For Video Camera Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Video Camera Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Video Camera Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Video Camera Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Video Camera Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Video Camera Operator jobs in CA? For Video Camera Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Video Camera Operator jobs near you
Videographer II

Videographer II

Rothe Development, Inc.

Edwards, CA

$71K - $82K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Videographer II
Rothe is seeking an experienced Videographer amp; Editor to capture and document groundbreaking aerospace research and events. This role requires a highly skilled and creative professional with expertise in scientific, event, and documentary photography across various environments, from controlled studio settings to dynamic outdoor and airborne conditions in support of the NASA Enterprise Multimedia and Integrated Technical Services (eMITS) contract. eMITS is the Agency’s enterprise-level contract creating and delivering multimedia and technical communications through the use of the internet, digital platforms, and IT management for NASA’s Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO) and Office of Communications (OCOMM). From capturing groundbreaking aeronautic missions, to producing engaging videos, to information technology management, to using social media to share NASA’s message, eMITS integrates services for NASA IT and provides NASA’s communication to the outside world. Come join us in support of NASA’s mission to inspire the world through information and discovery.
SALARY RANGE: $70,000 - $80,000
CLEARANCE: Requires the Ability to obtain a government secret clearance.
JOB LOCATION: NASA Neil Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC), Edwards, CA - Onsite
JOB DESCRIPTION:
As a Videographer II at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center, you will be responsible for planning, producing, and delivering high‑quality video products that support scientific research, public affairs, education, internal communication, and mission documentation. You will independently coordinate with customers to develop scripts or adapt existing material, ensuring that each project accurately communicates NASA’s work while meeting technical, creative, and organizational standards.
You will use a wide range of production tools—including large- and small‑format cameras, lighting systems, non‑linear editing platforms, audio equipment, production switchers, and mobile ENG systems—to create visually compelling content in both controlled and dynamic environments. Assignments often occur in operational settings where opportunities for retakes are limited, requiring strong technical expertise in lighting, exposure, sound recording, composition, and continuity.
In this role, you will document flight tests, research activities, executive events, and special programs across the center. You will serve as a camera operator during press conferences, large events, auditorium productions, and on NASA’s airborne platforms, with potential for travel to domestic and international locations. You may also support in‑flight documentation of high‑performance aircraft and research missions.
Additional responsibilities include digitization, duplication, and file‑sharing services, along with adherence to digital asset workflows, metadata standards, and work order systems to ensure organized, accessible, and compliant archiving of video materials. As a key member of a multidisciplinary communications team, you will collaborate closely with engineers, scientists, project managers, and leadership to deliver accurate, engaging, and mission‑aligned video content.
Remote, hybrid, and onsite positions, the employee bears travel costs to the nearest NASA Center for badging and the issuance of NASA IT equipment.
For a Remote or Hybrid position, the employee must have a reliable internet connection and be able to VPN into the NASA network to conduct work.
EDUCATION:
  • Associate’s degree or accredited formal training in related field and at least 10 years of related work experience.
  • Bachelor’s Degree with at least 5 years of related work experience.
Minimum Requirements:
  • Ability to independently produce, shoot and edit promotional, educational, and training videos.
  • Adobe Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve.
  • Adobe After Effects.
  • Large and small format camera systems.
  • Proficient understanding of lighting, sound, and depth-of-field in capturing interviews and cinematic style b-roll.
  • Must be capable of researching content and conducting on-camera interviews with subject matter experts (SMEs).
  • Must have initiative and good problem-solving skills. Must have good auditory and visual acuity.
  • Able to fly in pressurized and high-performance aircraft while shooting video. Demonstrated ability of perseverance when challenged with physical adversity.
  • Must possess a valid driver’s license.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a USAF Flight Line Driver’s License.
  • Pre-qualification requirement to pass a FAA Class III flight physical exam.
  • Chase aircraft personnel requirement to qualify for flight above 25,000 feet to fly back seat.
  • Must be able to pass physiological training, water survival, land survival, and egress training of the various aircraft flown at Armstrong Flight Research Center.
  • A desire to learn, follow direction from more senior staff, and contribute positive ideas.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Scripting/script adaptation
  • Social media platform creation and delivery formatting specifications.
  • Asset management familiarity.
  • Ability to travel independently, foreign and domestic, WITH GEAR to document NASA projects.
  • Understanding of 508 compliance and ability to navigate the process.
  • Technical direction and knowledge of productions switchers a plus.
  • Understanding of audio and video routers and patch panels, vector scopes and waveform monitors.
  • Knowledge of codecs for various types of multimedia distribution.
  • Establish and maintain successful working relationships with those contacted in the performance of this position.
  • Work in a team environment and independently with little direct supervision.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, creative environment under deadlines.
  • Capable of multi-tasking.
  • Communicate effectively in both oral and written form.
  • Adapt and react quickly to changing schedules and environments.
  • Strong organizational and project management skills
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with technical teams, researchers, and executive leadership.
Work Environment, Physical, and Mental demands:
  • Videographers may be required to fly to remote locations to perform their essential job functions. Therefore, the ability to fly and to travel as required by the company is essential.
  • Ability to perform certain physical tasks is necessary to perform videography work such as moderate lifting and carrying video equipment (up to 50 lbs.); standing or sitting for long periods of time (up to 8 hours); working in a wide range of weather conditions (e.g., high wind, with high dust levels and heat up to 100° F).
  • Mental alertness and fortitude to withstand challenging flight environment conditions confined spaces.
  • Ability to use a computer to input and retrieve information and data.
  • Will be required to fly as a crewmember in NASA aircraft.
  • May work overtime, weekends and/or holidays.
Rothe is an EEO/AA/Disability/Vets Employer and complies with E-Verify.
Rothe is an equal opportunity employer and complies with E-Verify. We believe in hiring a diverse workforce and fostering an inclusive culture. We are committed to non-discrimination on any protected basis, such as disability and veteran status, or any other basis covered under applicable law.
Rothe shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a).

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