Camera Operator (Livestream & Live Production) - NY

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.

Role Details

• 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.

• 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

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.

To Apply

Please submit:

• Resume

• Demo reel or links to live production work

  • Note: File uploads limited to 2 MB per file. If you have larger files, please share a link to a digital storage folder in your application/CV

• Available start date

- UCB is an equal opportunity employer.

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