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Video Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Video Operator / Shooter plays a critical role in capturing compelling video content across a wide variety of productions, partnering closely with Producers, Creative Directors, Photographers ...

The Video Operator / Shooter plays a critical role in capturing compelling video content across a wide variety of productions, partnering closely with Producers, Creative Directors, Photographers ...

This includes setting up, operating, and maintaining video equipment to ensure seamless visual experiences for both live audiences and online streaming. The role requires a strong technical ...

This includes setting up, operating, and maintaining video equipment to ensure seamless visual experiences for both live audiences and online streaming. The role requires a strong technical ...

Video Surveillance Operator

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

Night Shift role Role Overview The Surveillance Operator is a desk-based, onsite security monitoring role responsible for reviewing live video feeds, identifying potential threats, and taking ...

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Video Operator information

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$5

$25

$56

How much do video operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for video operator in the United States is $25.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Video Operator, you need a solid understanding of video production, signal flow, and broadcast standards, often supported by experience or a degree in media technology or a related field. Familiarity with video switchers, routing systems, video servers, and industry-standard software such as Adobe Premiere Pro or Avid is crucial. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help ensure smooth operations during live events or broadcasts. These skills are vital for delivering high-quality video content and minimizing technical disruptions in fast-paced production environments.

Do camera operators get paid well?

Camera operators, including video operators, typically earn wages that vary based on experience, location, and industry. In general, they earn a median annual salary around $50,000 to $70,000, with higher pay possible for those working in specialized fields or high-demand environments. Skills in operating professional equipment and certifications can also influence earning potential.

How much does it pay to be a camera operator?

The average salary for a camera operator varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $40,000 to $80,000 annually. Entry-level operators may earn less, while experienced professionals working on major productions can earn higher wages, especially with specialized skills and certifications.

What kind of jobs in media bring in $150,000 a year?

In media, high-paying roles like senior video directors, broadcast engineers, or media executives can earn $150,000 or more annually. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced technical skills, and leadership responsibilities, sometimes involving working with specialized equipment or managing large teams.

What is the difference between Video Operator vs Camera Operator?

AspectVideo OperatorCamera Operator
CredentialsTypically requires technical training or certification in video productionOften requires a camera-specific certification or experience in cinematography
Work EnvironmentWorks mainly in control rooms, studios, or live event settingsWorks on location or in studios, handling camera equipment
Industry UsageCommon in broadcast, live events, and video production companiesCommon in film, television, and live event production
Job FocusOperates video equipment, manages live feeds, and ensures video qualityOperates cameras to capture footage, framing, and shot composition

While both roles involve working with video equipment, a Video Operator primarily manages video feeds and technical aspects in live or broadcast settings, whereas a Camera Operator focuses on capturing footage through camera operation. Understanding these differences helps clarify job expectations and required skills in the video production industry.

What are some common challenges faced by Video Operators during live broadcasts, and how can they be managed?

Video Operators often face challenges such as managing multiple video feeds, responding quickly to technical issues, and ensuring seamless transitions between sources under tight time constraints. To manage these challenges, it’s important to have a thorough understanding of the equipment, maintain clear communication with the production team, and develop strong multitasking abilities. Proactive troubleshooting and regular equipment checks can also help minimize disruptions during live events.

What does a video operator do?

A video operator is responsible for operating and maintaining video equipment during live broadcasts, events, or recordings. They set up cameras, manage video feeds, troubleshoot technical issues, and ensure high-quality video output, often working with production teams and using tools like switchers and monitors.
More about Video Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Video Operator jobs? Cities with the most Video Operator job openings:
What states have the most Video Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Video Operator jobs include:
Video Operator

Video Operator

Universal Music Group

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Universal Music Group rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 67 rated media


Job description

We are UMG, the Universal Music Group. We are the world's leading music company. In everything we do, we are committed to artistry, innovation and entrepreneurship. We own and operate a broad array of businesses engaged in recorded music, music publishing, merchandising, and audiovisual content in more than 60 countries. We identify and develop recording artists and songwriters, and we produce, distribute and promote the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful music to delight and entertain fans around the world.
We are UMG, the Universal Music Group. We are the world's leading music company. In everything we do, we are committed to artistry, innovation and entrepreneurship. We own and operate a broad array of businesses engaged in recorded music, music publishing, merchandising, and audiovisual content in more than 60 countries. We identify and develop recording artists and songwriters, and we produce, distribute and promote the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful music to delight and entertain fans around the world.
Fame House, a division of UMG, is the preeminent leader in D2C solutions in music, defining & delivering the industry's best-in-class service to connect artists with their fans. Established & headquartered in Philly, Fame House powers eCommerce for UMG's labels, artists, and Bravado, along with a select roster of 3rd party clients. Our success & culture is fueled by collaboration, both within FH and with our partners. We are passionate about the impact of eCommerce for artists, providing a full service solution to grow an artist's owned business including strategy, creative, storefront merchandising, fulfillment, customer service, technology, and more.
How we LEAD:
Merchandise and e-commerce is part of the fabric of music culture. For artists, it's a way to develop and further articulate their brand. For fans, it's another pathway to connecting with an artist and the culture they represent. Digital Creative & Experience creates content that connects artists with fans across every touchpoint of the digital experience. Working across artist stores, ecommerce experiences, product launches, campaigns, social content, and brand storytelling initiatives, our Content Production team is responsible for bringing creative concepts to life through high-quality visual content that drives engagement and supports commercial performance. The Video Operator / Shooter plays a critical role in capturing compelling video content across a wide variety of productions, partnering closely with Producers, Creative Directors, Photographers, Editors, and Content teams to ensure every asset meets the highest creative and technical standards.
The Video Operator / Shooter is responsible for capturing high-quality video content across studio, location, e-commerce, campaign, and social productions. Combining strong technical expertise with a creative eye, this role ensures footage is captured efficiently, consistently, and in alignment with creative direction and production requirements. Working closely with the Content Production team, this role supports all stages of production execution, from equipment preparation and on-set operations through to media management and handoff into post-production workflows. The Video Operator / Shooter serves as a key contributor to the visual storytelling process, helping transform creative concepts into engaging content that connects artists, brands, and fans.
How You'll CREATE
  • Capture video content across studio, location, campaign, e-commerce, and social productions
  • Operate cinema, mirrorless, and production camera systems to meet creative and technical requirements
  • Execute creative direction provided by Content Creative Directors and Production leads
  • Collaborate with Producers to ensure efficient shoot execution and schedule adherence
  • Support lighting setup and camera positioning to achieve desired visual outcomes
  • Work alongside photographers and content teams to support integrated content capture
  • Ensure technical accuracy including focus, exposure, framing, color consistency, and media management
  • Manage camera, lens, monitoring, and support equipment during productions
  • Maintain equipment readiness, organization, and inventory standards
  • Assist with pre-production planning, technical preparation, and shoot logistics
  • Support multi-camera, live, and fast-turnaround production environments when required
  • Organize and prepare footage for post-production workflows and asset delivery
  • Identify opportunities to improve production efficiency and content quality
  • Maintain a strong understanding of emerging production technologies, tools, and industry best practices

Bring Your VIBE
  • 3-5 years experience operating cameras within content production, ecommerce, music, entertainment, agency, or brand environments
  • Strong understanding of camera systems, lenses, lighting, audio capture, and production workflows
  • Experience capturing content across multiple formats including campaign, social, product, lifestyle, and branded content
  • Ability to work effectively in fast-paced production environments while maintaining attention to detail
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills
  • Comfortable working across multiple projects and priorities simultaneously
  • Understanding of post-production workflows and asset management processes
  • Passion for visual storytelling, music, culture, and digital content
  • Ability to solve problems quickly and remain calm under pressure
  • A collaborative mindset and willingness to contribute wherever needed to achieve the best creative outcome

Success Looks Like
  • Consistently capturing technically excellent footage
  • Supporting efficient and productive shoot environments
  • Delivering assets that meet creative and production standards
  • Contributing to seamless collaboration across production and creative teams
  • Maintaining readiness and reliability across all production activities Helping elevate the overall quality and effectiveness of content produced by the team

Perks Playlist:
Join an entrepreneurial, global organization where authenticity, boldness, creativity, connection, drive, and insight aren't just values-they're how we work every day. Here are some of the ways we support you along the way (and just a few of the benefits we offer):
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Including 100% coverage for out-patient in-network mental health services
  • Fertility coverage for eligible medical plan participants
  • Wellbeing reimbursements for fitness classes, spa treatments, meal services, travel, and so much more (up to $720/year)
  • Student Loan Repayment Assistance and Tuition Reimbursement
  • 401(k) with 100% immediate vesting on the first 5% of your contributions, plus an additional UMG contribution

A variety of ways to prioritize much-needed time away from work including:
  • Flexible Paid Time Off (PTO) for exempt employees
  • 3-weeks PTO for non-exempt employees
  • 2-weeks paid Winter Break
  • 10 Company Holidays (including Juneteenth and Wellbeing Day)
  • Summer Fridays (between Memorial Day and Labor Day)
  • Generous paid parental leave for every type of parent

Check out our full overview of benefits on the Perks Playlist page of the career site.
Disclaimer: This job description only provides an overview of job responsibilities that are subject to change.
Universal Music Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer
We are an E-Verify employer in Alabama, Arizona, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Utah.
Please note, UMG is not enrolled in E-Verify in California and New York, and cannot support employment of candidates whose employer must enroll in E-Verify, for example candidates on STEM-OPT.
For more information, please click on the following links.
E-Verify Participation Poster: English / Spanish
E-Verify Right to Work Poster: English | Spanish
Job Category:
Creative, Design & Production
Salary Range:
63,010 - 95,000
The actual base salary offered depends on a variety of factors, which may include, as applicable, the qualifications of the individual applicant for the position, years of relevant experience, specific and unique skills, level of education attained, certifications or other professional licenses held, and the location in which the applicant lives and/or from which they will be performing the job. All candidates are encouraged to apply.

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