Camera Operator (Livestream & Live Production) - NY

Ucbcomedy; New York (NY); On-site; USD 28,413 - 40,467; Part time

Job summary

Ucbcomedy is seeking experienced freelance Camera Operators to join our production team in New York. This role is essential for capturing high-energy live comedy for digital audiences.

Operators will work with the Panasonic AG-CX350 in a dynamic, multi-cam environment, delivering visual storytelling that translates the live performance experience online. Strong comedic timing and technical skills are critical.

Qualifications

• Proven track record of operating cameras in a live event environment.
• Technical fluency with professional HD cameras and live-switching workflows.
• Strong understanding of comedic timing and framing.
• Ability to stay focused in a high-pressure environment.
• Excellent communication skills for coordination with tech teams.

Responsibilities

• Operate the Panasonic AG-CX350 during live comedy performances.
• Collaborate with tech operators to ensure high-quality shots.
• Assist in deploying specialized camera rigs.
• Ensure theater cameras and gear are ready before shows.

Skills

Camera operation in live events

Technical fluency with HD cameras

Excellent communication skills

Understanding of comedic timing

Adaptability in high-pressure settings

Tools

Panasonic AG-CX350

OBS

Job description

• Contract
• Compensation: up to USD 25 - hourly

Company Description

The Upright Citizens Brigade is home for all things comedy. Whether you’re interested in writing, performing, becoming a stronger public speaker, or just love seeing comedy, UCB has you covered! Our highly trained faculty represents the best writers and performers working in comedy today. The Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre was founded by Matt Besser, Amy Poehler, Ian Roberts, and Matt Walsh in 1999 and operates Theaters and Training Centers in New York & Los Angeles with Austin and Pittsburgh on its way.

Job Description

The Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB) Theatre is seeking experienced freelance Camera Operators to join our production team in Los Angeles and New York. This role is vital to the success of our digital initiatives, capturing high-energy live comedy for real-time livestreams and high-quality archival footage.

Operators will work within a multi-cam environment to deliver dynamic visual storytelling that translates the live theater experience to a digital audience.

Employment Type: Freelance / Contract

Location: New York, NY

Schedule: Variable; requires evening and weekend availability for show coverage

Reporting to: Executive Director / Venue Coordinator

$25/hr

Key Responsibilities

Live Camera Operation: Operate the Panasonic AG-CX350 as a handheld / mobile camera during live comedy performances, staying nimble and responsive from the first set to the final bow.

Active Listening to apply contextual composition while following fast-paced improvisational and scripted comedy.

Collaborative Live-Switching: Work in coordination with both the Tech Booth Operator and Live-switcher to provide usable, high-quality shots for real-time cutting and streaming to platforms like YouTube and Vimeo.

Assist in the deployment of specialized camera rigs, including camera setups for audience capture or unique show-specific needs like top-down kitchen rigs.

Technical Maintenance: Ensure the theater cameras and associated gear are calibrated and ready for use prior to showtime.

Qualifications

Proven track record of operating cameras in a live event environment (comedy, theater, or music preferred).

Technical fluency with professional HD cameras and live-switching workflows.

A strong understanding of comedic timing and framing to anticipate performer movement and punchlines.

Adaptability: Ability to stay focused and professional in a high-pressure, live-to-air environment with minimal oversight.

Excellent communication skills for working alongside Technical Operators, Technical Leads, Event Staff, and performers

Additional Information

Preferred Experience

Familiarity with the Panasonic AG-CX350 — our primary freemoving camera for live performances. Experience with this model is a plus, but not required.

Experience troubleshooting HDMI wireless transmission issues in live settings.

1+ year of on-set camera operation with solid command of core videography fundamentals (ISO, f-stop, shutter speed, etc.).

Familiarity with OBS and/or other livestreaming protocols for YouTube and other digital platforms.

- UCB is an equal opportunity employer.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.