Shigoto Zukan
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How to become camera operators, television, video, and filmeducation, training, experience and the steps to enter

United States Film & Video Confidence ★★★★★

Median annual pay
$74,990
25th–75th pct. $50,920–$106,660
Top pay (est.)
$175,700
Top 10% $135,180
Pay in 5 years
$86,900est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$100,800est.
$86,700–$117,000
Outlook score
56/100
★★★☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
32%
Low
Job growth (10 yr)
+1.3%
2,500 openings / yr

How to become camera operators, television, video, and film

Typical education
Bachelor's degree
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
None

A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.

Skills, education and requirements for Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film

Key skills

Coordination
3.8
Critical Thinking
3.5
Reading Comprehension
3.2
Active Listening
3.2
Judgment and Decision Making
3.1
Social Perceptiveness
3.1
Time Management
3.1
Complex Problem Solving
3.1

O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).

Key knowledge areas

English Language
3.9
Computers and Electronics
3.8
Telecommunications
3.8
Communications and Media
3.5
Administration and Management
3.0
Education and Training
2.7
Administrative
2.6
Engineering and Technology
2.6

What the work involves

Handling and Moving ObjectsThinking CreativelyEstablishing and Maintaining Interpersonal RelationshipsUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesOrganizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkMonitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsCommunicating with People Outside the Organization

Important abilities

Far VisionNear VisionOral ComprehensionVisualizationOral ExpressionVisual Color Discrimination

Education of workers

Associate's degree
61%
High school diploma
18%
Some college
15%
Bachelor's degree
7%

Training before entry

3–6 months
6%

Related work experience

None
30%
1–2 years
10%
4–6 years
2%

Job Zone 3 — medium preparation needed (O*NET)

Difficulty of entry: ★★☆☆☆ Fairly easy (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)

Career path and how to earn more as camera operators, television, video, and film

Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.

Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.