Virtual Camera Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

NFL Media Technical Operations is seeking a part-time Video Operator to lead in-studio and remote camera shading for live and pre-recorded news and sports productions across all platforms. This role is responsible for ensuring consistent, high-quality visual output across all camera feeds by managing real-time shading, color correction, and signal integrity. 

The Video Operator serves as a critical technical resource within the control room and engineering ecosystem, partnering with Technical Directors, Engineering, and production teams to deliver a seamless, broadcast-ready product in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment. 

Responsibilities

• Perform real-time shading of multiple camera sources during live and recorded productions, ensuring consistent color, exposure, and visual quality  
• Configure and manage camera shading systems, including Sony broadcast camera chains, CCUs, and RCPs   
• Adjust iris, gamma, black levels, and color balance across multiple camera feeds to maintain a cohesive on-air look  
• Color correct inbound video feeds using Selenio Network Processor Manager to ensure broadcast quality and consistency  
• Manage video signal routing for shading and production workflows using Imagine Magellan Control systems   
• Monitor and troubleshoot video signals using waveform monitors, vectorscopes, and diagnostic tools to maintain broadcast standards  
• Collaborate with Technical Directors, Engineering, and production staff to support the creative and technical execution of productions   
• Support setup, calibration, and testing of cameras, shading systems, and video infrastructure for studio and remote productions   
• Adjust shading dynamically based on changing lighting conditions, production requirements, or environmental factors   
• Operate effectively in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment, adapting quickly to real-time production changes and technical challenges   
• Support advanced production environments, including robotic camera systems (Panasonic, Telemetrics), Ultimatte systems, and OLED display integrations   

Required Qualifications

• 5-10+ years of experience in camera shading or broadcast video operations in studio and/or remote production environments  
• Extensive experience with Sony broadcast camera systems, including studio and ENG configurations   
• Experience shading, color correcting, and routing video using frame synchronizers and production systems (e.g., Imagine, Cobalt)   
• Strong understanding of broadcast video formats, including 1080p, 1080i, and 720p   
• Working knowledge of SMPTE 2110 or IP-based video workflows

Preferred Experience 

• Experience working in live sports or fast-paced broadcast production environments  
• Experience with automated and robotic camera systems (Panasonic, Telemetrics)  
• Familiarity with Ultimatte compositing systems and virtual production workflows  
• Experience working with OLED walls and large-format display environments   
• Knowledge of HDR and emerging broadcast technologies   

Other Key Attributes / Characteristics

• Exceptional attention to detail with a strong eye for color accuracy and visual consistency  
• Ability to remain calm and make precise technical adjustments under pressure in live broadcast environments   
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate across control room, engineering, and production teams   
• Highly organized and able to manage multiple camera feeds and priorities simultaneously   
• Strong technical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot complex video and signal issues in real time   
• Self-motivated and adaptable, with the ability to work independently or within a team environment

Physical Demands 

• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs as required for production setup and support   

Terms / Expected Hours of Work

• Schedule driven by production needs, including live broadcasts and events  
• Must be available to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays   
• This is a part-time position based on operational requirements up to 29 hours per week
• Seasonal employment up to 7 months 

Salary / Pay Range

This job posting contains a pay range, which represents the range of salaries or hourly rates that the NFL believes, in good faith, at the time of this posting that it might be willing to pay for the posted job in the location(s) specified. The NFL expects to hire for this position near the middle of the range. Only in truly rare and exceptional circumstances, where an external candidate has experience, credentials or expertise that far exceed those required or expected for the position, would the NFL consider paying a salary or rate near the higher end of the range.