Camera Operator Job Description Template

A camera operator works on set.

When hiring a camera operator for your company, look for creative professionals with experience telling compelling stories with the principles of visual, audio, lighting, and scene production. Whether you’re looking for a skilled camera operator to capture scenes for full-length films, 30-minute television shows, or 30-second commercials, the first step is to create a compelling camera operator job description.

Edit this job description template to save time attracting great-fit candidates for your open position. Also, browse Monster’s camera operator job listings for inspiration about which skills and experience to include.

A camera operator works on set.

Camera Operator Job Description

Intro Paragraph: The first section of your job description should be a quick overview of the position and the type of candidate who will make the best fit. This is so job searchers can get a general sense of whether the job is what they’re looking for before they dive into the details.

For example, you could write something like:

Our production studio is hiring a creative camera operator who can collaborate with our director, production team, and actors to capture professional-grade scenes for our [project or organization]. The ideal candidate will have experience filming high-quality footage using various types of equipment. They must be comfortable holding steady for long periods of time and have a sharp eye for detail. If you have a passion for working in the [specific] industry and have previously filmed [type of project, e.g., commercials, live shows, full-length films, etc.], we encourage you to apply.

About Our Organization: Use this section of your camera operator job description to share what’s great about working with your organization and team. This could be anything from your company’s mission and values to the types of projects your team works on. Candidates want to work for teams that match their interests and career goals.

Get specific about your company culture and:

  • How often you’re able to promote employees and increase compensation.
  • Whether you provide skills training.
  • Awards your studio has won or other accolades.

These details will get great-fit candidates excited to apply and work with your team.

Camera Operator Job Responsibilities: Edit this general list of camera operator responsibilities according to the needs of your organization and filming requirements:

  • Work with the filming director, production team, and cast to ensure filmed scenes are high quality and relevant to our audience.
  • Use the principles of film production to ensure the proper lighting, visuals, sound, and camera angles are used to capture the best shots possible.
  • Provide alternate filming solutions, such as different camera angles or effects, when needed.
  • Actively acquire and maintain camera equipment, including stands, gimbals, filters, and dollies.
  • Set up and test various camera angles and movements to ensure scenes are captured thoroughly.
  • Assist in the post-production process when needed.
  • Keep up to date on the latest camera operating technologies and trends.

Work Hours and Benefits: Every job description needs information about the terms of the job, including the hours the candidate would be required to work. Be sure to note whether the position is full or part time, or perhaps it’s a freelance position or temp to hire. Also list whether it’s a standard 9 am to 5 pm position, Monday through Friday.

After you mention the hours, list the benefits and perks you offer since it shows candidates how you reward employees for their hard work. Organizations commonly offer:

  • healthcare coverage
  • retirement planning
  • paid time off
  • commuting stipends

Some states also require employers to list the job salary. Check whether your state is included in the salary range transparency laws, and consider listing the pay rate, regardless if you’re required to or not. Candidates appreciate the transparency, and it can save time in the hiring process.

Camera Operator Qualifications and Skills: Skills to list in your camera operator job description include:

  • Heightened visual creativity and ability to tell stories with film.
  • Strong understanding of technical camera operator skills, such as the creative use of focus, filters, angles, visual effects, framing, and lighting.
  • Able to work and troubleshoot with the director and other staff to complete project to spec.
  • Great communication and leadership skills.
  • Working knowledge of pre- and post-film production.
  • Physically able to hold camera and stand for long periods of time.

Education, Experience, and Certification Requirements:

  • Associate degree in broadcasting, film, or a related field.
  • Three years’ experience as a camera operator or similar role.

Call to Action: No job description is complete without a clear call to action. Candidates need to know how to apply for the open position or how to get in touch with your hiring staff, so be sure to include next steps, such as “apply now” or “learn more.” Otherwise, qualified candidates could potentially walk away without getting in touch.

Find Your Next Camera Operator Today

Once you’ve completed your camera operator job description, you’re ready to post it where candidates search for open positions in the film industry. When you sign up for a free trial with Monster, you can instantly gain access to qualified candidates in your field.