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Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film

Median Salary
61,800
Job Outlook
+3%

Overview

What are the responsibilities of this role?

Operate television, video, or film camera to record images or scenes for television, video, or film productions.

What is the job outlook?

Overall employment of film and video editors and camera operators is projected to grow 3 percent from 2023 to 2033, about as fast as the average for all occupations. About 7,100 openings for film and video editors and camera operators are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Compensation

What is the typical salary range?

$29,200

10%

$61,800

Median

$93,880

90%

How does location impact how much salary?

Education

What level of education do professionals in this role have?

Education Level

  • Associate's degree

    60%

  • High school

    17%

  • Some college

    14%

  • Bachelor's degree

    6%

Which college majors best prepare you for this role?

  • Radio and Television Broadcasting Technology/Technician
  • Cinematography and Film/Video Production
  • Documentary Production
  • Audiovisual Communications Technologies/Technicians, Other

Skills and Interest

Which skill sets are the most valuable to possess?

Skills

  • Technology Design and Control

    High

  • Equipment Operation and Maintenance

    High

  • Verbal Skills

    Mid

  • Leadership

    Mid

  • Math and Science Skills

    Low

  • Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

    Mid

What knowledge should you bring to the table?

  • English Language
  • Computers and Electronics
  • Telecommunications
  • Communications and Media
  • Administration and Management

What challenges will you likely face in the workplace?

Workplace

  • Exposure to Job Hazards

    Mid

  • Time Pressure

    Mid

  • Repetitiveness

    Mid

  • Responsibility

    Mid

  • Physical Activity

    Mid

  • Level Of Competition

    Mid

  • Decision Making

    Low

What personality traits help people thrive in this role?

Artistic

You love creating things and expressing yourself through art, writing and music.

Realistic

You love hands-on work and solving practical problems — like fixing things and building stuff.

Conventional

You like structure, staying organized, and working with systems to get things done efficiently.

RIASEC represents six broad interest areas—Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional—helping individuals identify careers that match their skills and preferences.

Take the RIASEC Test

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Data supplied by Bureau of Labor Statistics, National Center of Education Statistics, Defense Manpower Data Center (View our update schedule). Contact any business, college or military service branch to answer additional questions.