About Company
Sheffield Live is an independent, award-winning community media organisation committed to serving the diverse communities of Sheffield. As a not-for-profit entity, we operate a local television station (Sheffield Live TV), a community radio station (Sheffield Live Radio), and various digital platforms, providing a vital voice for local issues, culture, and talent. Our mission is to inform, entertain, and empower through authentic local content, fostering community engagement and celebrating the vibrant spirit of our city. We pride ourselves on creating a dynamic and inclusive environment where creativity flourishes, and every team member contributes directly to making a tangible impact on local broadcasting.
Job Description
Are you a skilled and passionate Camera Operator with an eye for compelling visuals and a desire to make a difference in local media? Sheffield Live is seeking a talented Camera Operator to join our dedicated production team. This is a unique opportunity to work across both our professional studio facilities and diverse outdoor field locations, capturing engaging content for our television and digital platforms. Your role will be pivotal in bringing local stories to life, from live studio discussions and interviews to on-location coverage of community events, cultural festivals, news reports, and documentary features.
We are looking for someone who is equally comfortable operating state-of-the-art studio cameras, managing multi-camera setups for live broadcasts, and independently handling portable equipment for dynamic field shoots. You will be responsible for ensuring high-quality visual capture, impeccable framing, and stable shots, contributing directly to the overall production value of our programming. This role demands technical proficiency, creative flair, and the ability to adapt quickly to varying environments and unexpected challenges. You will collaborate closely with directors, producers, sound engineers, and on-screen talent to achieve our creative vision. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, possess excellent problem-solving skills, and are passionate about community broadcasting, we encourage you to apply and help us continue to tell Sheffield’s stories through the lens.
Key Responsibilities
- Operate professional video cameras (both studio pedestals/jibs and portable field cameras) to capture high-quality footage for live broadcasts, pre-recorded programmes, and digital content.
- Set up, rig, and derig camera equipment, including lighting, tripods, monitors, and associated accessories, ensuring optimal performance and safety.
- Collaborate with directors and producers to understand shot requirements, framing, and camera movements, translating creative briefs into visual reality.
- Execute dynamic camera work for studio productions, including multi-camera live switching, interviews, performances, and panel discussions.
- Conduct field shoots independently or as part of a small team, capturing events, interviews, B-roll, and documentary footage in various outdoor and indoor locations.
- Perform basic camera maintenance and troubleshooting to ensure equipment is in excellent working order.
- Monitor video levels, focus, and white balance to maintain consistent image quality.
- Assist with lighting setup and composition to enhance visual aesthetics.
- Adhere to production schedules, technical specifications, and health and safety guidelines.
- Contribute to post-production workflows by logging footage and providing clear shot notes.
- Stay updated with industry trends, new camera technologies, and best practices.
- Work collaboratively within a diverse team environment, demonstrating flexibility and a proactive attitude.
Required Skills
- Proven experience as a Camera Operator in a professional broadcast or production environment.
- Strong understanding of camera operation, lenses, framing, composition, and lighting principles.
- Proficiency with a range of professional video cameras (e.g., Blackmagic, Sony, Panasonic ENG cameras).
- Experience with both studio and field production workflows.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
- Excellent visual storytelling abilities and a keen eye for detail.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills.
- Ability to adapt to changing environments and technical requirements.
- Valid UK driving license and ability to travel for field assignments.
- Familiarity with health and safety protocols for production sets.
Preferred Qualifications
- Relevant degree or diploma in Film, Television Production, Media Studies, or a related field.
- Experience with multi-camera live production and vision mixing.
- Basic knowledge of video editing software (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve).
- Understanding of audio recording techniques for field productions.
- Experience working in a community media or non-profit environment.
- Portfolio or showreel demonstrating diverse camera operating experience.
Perks & Benefits
- Opportunity to work with a leading community media organisation, making a real impact.
- Dynamic and creative work environment with diverse projects.
- Collaborative team culture.
- Continuous professional development and training opportunities.
- Access to a wide range of professional broadcasting equipment.
- Contribution to a vital local service that connects and empowers communities.
- Flexible working options where applicable.
How to Apply
To apply for this exciting opportunity, please click on the application link below. Ensure your CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you are passionate about joining Sheffield Live are included. We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially welcoming you to our team!