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Television, Video, and Motion Picture Camera Operators and Editors

Job Zone
Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed
Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

Job Zones group occupations into one of five categories based on the education, experience, and training typically needed to perform them.

O’NET publishes details below this occupation’s level. Showing Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film — one of 2 occupations here: Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film, Film and Video Editors.

Tasks

Specific duties and responsibilities regularly performed in this occupation.

  • Compose and frame each shot, applying the technical aspects of light, lenses, film, filters, and camera settings to achieve the effects sought by directors.95
  • Operate television or motion picture cameras to record scenes for television broadcasts, advertising, or motion pictures.93
  • Edit video for broadcast productions, including non-linear editing.93
  • Instruct camera operators regarding camera setups, angles, distances, movement, and variables and cues for starting and stopping filming.90
  • Adjust positions and controls of cameras, printers, and related equipment to change focus, exposure, and lighting.87
  • Confer with directors, sound and lighting technicians, electricians, and other crew members to discuss assignments and determine filming sequences, desired effects, camera movements, and lighting requirements.86
  • Operate zoom lenses, changing images according to specifications and rehearsal instructions.85
  • Observe sets or locations for potential problems and to determine filming and lighting requirements.83
  • Assemble studio sets and select and arrange cameras, film stock, audio, or lighting equipment to be used during filming.83
  • Read and analyze work orders and specifications to determine locations of subject material, work procedures, sequences of operations, and machine setups.82
  • Set up and perform live shots for broadcast.79
  • Use cameras in any of several different camera mounts, such as stationary, track-mounted, or crane-mounted.79
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  • Test, clean, maintain, and repair broadcast equipment, including testing microphones, to ensure proper working condition.77
  • View films to resolve problems of exposure control, subject and camera movement, changes in subject distance, and related variables.77
  • Direct studio productions.76
  • Set up cameras, optical printers, and related equipment to produce photographs and special effects.75
  • Read charts and compute ratios to determine variables such as lighting, shutter angles, filter factors, and camera distances.73
  • Set up and operate electric news gathering (ENG) microwave vehicles to gather and edit raw footage on location to send to television affiliates for broadcast.65
  • Write new scripts for broadcasts.62
  • Design graphics for studio productions.61
  • Stay current with new technologies in the field by reading trade magazines.43
  • Operate drones to capture aerial or unique angle footage for film, television, or video productions.

Skills

Developed capacities that facilitate learning or the more rapid acquisition of knowledge.

  • Active Listening69

    Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

  • Coordination56

    Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.

  • Judgment and Decision Making56

    Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.

  • Reading Comprehension56

    Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.

  • Speaking56

    Talking to others to convey information effectively.

  • Critical Thinking53

    Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

  • Monitoring53

    Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

  • Social Perceptiveness53

    Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.

  • Time Management53

    Managing one's own time and the time of others.

  • Complex Problem Solving50

    Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

  • Active Learning47

    Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

  • Operation and Control47

    Controlling operations of equipment or systems.

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  • Operations Monitoring47

    Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.

  • Persuasion47

    Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.

  • Quality Control Analysis47

    Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.

  • Service Orientation47

    Actively looking for ways to help people.

  • Writing47

    Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

  • Learning Strategies44

    Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.

  • Equipment Selection41

    Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.

  • Management of Personnel Resources38

    Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.

  • Negotiation38

    Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.

  • Instructing35

    Teaching others how to do something.

  • Repairing35

    Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.

  • Troubleshooting35

    Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.

  • Equipment Maintenance31

    Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.

  • Systems Analysis31

    Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.

  • Systems Evaluation31

    Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.

  • Operations Analysis28

    Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.

  • Mathematics25

    Using mathematics to solve problems.

  • Technology Design25

    Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.

  • Management of Material Resources22

    Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.

  • Management of Financial Resources19

    Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.

  • Programming10

    Writing computer programs for various purposes.

  • Installation3

    Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.

  • Science0

    Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

Knowledge

Organized sets of principles and facts that apply in general domains.

  • English Language84

    Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.

  • Computers and Electronics76

    Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.

  • Communications and Media71

    Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.

  • Telecommunications70

    Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.

  • Engineering and Technology48

    Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.

  • Education and Training44

    Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.

  • Public Safety and Security44

    Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.

  • Mathematics43

    Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

  • Customer and Personal Service41

    Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.

  • Production and Processing41

    Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.

  • Law and Government37

    Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.

  • Geography35

    Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.

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  • Mechanical35

    Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.

  • Administration and Management32

    Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.

  • Administrative30

    Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.

  • History and Archeology28

    Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.

  • Sociology and Anthropology28

    Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.

  • Fine Arts27

    Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.

  • Design25

    Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.

  • Sales and Marketing25

    Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.

  • Transportation25

    Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.

  • Personnel and Human Resources22

    Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.

  • Psychology16

    Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.

  • Building and Construction15

    Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.

  • Physics14

    Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.

  • Chemistry13

    Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.

  • Philosophy and Theology12

    Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.

  • Foreign Language10

    Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.

  • Therapy and Counseling10

    Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.

  • Medicine and Dentistry9

    Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.

  • Biology5

    Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.

  • Economics and Accounting5

    Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.

  • Food Production0

    Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.

Abilities

Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance.

  • Far Vision69

    The ability to see details at a distance.

  • Near Vision69

    The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).

  • Visualization69

    The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.

  • Oral Expression66

    The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.

  • Problem Sensitivity66

    The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.

  • Oral Comprehension63

    The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.

  • Speech Clarity63

    The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.

  • Speech Recognition60

    The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.

  • Visual Color Discrimination60

    The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.

  • Arm-Hand Steadiness56

    The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.

  • Control Precision56

    The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.

  • Flexibility of Closure56

    The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.

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  • Information Ordering56

    The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).

  • Selective Attention56

    The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.

  • Deductive Reasoning53

    The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.

  • Finger Dexterity53

    The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.

  • Fluency of Ideas53

    The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).

  • Inductive Reasoning53

    The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).

  • Manual Dexterity53

    The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.

  • Originality53

    The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.

  • Category Flexibility50

    The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.

  • Time Sharing50

    The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).

  • Multilimb Coordination47

    The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.

  • Perceptual Speed47

    The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.

  • Written Comprehension47

    The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.

  • Auditory Attention44

    The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.

  • Hearing Sensitivity44

    The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.

  • Written Expression44

    The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.

  • Depth Perception41

    The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.

  • Static Strength41

    The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.

  • Trunk Strength41

    The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without "giving out" or fatiguing.

  • Speed of Closure38

    The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.

  • Extent Flexibility31

    The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.

  • Rate Control31

    The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.

  • Response Orientation31

    The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.

  • Gross Body Coordination28

    The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.

  • Memorization28

    The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.

  • Reaction Time28

    The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.

  • Spatial Orientation28

    The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.

  • Dynamic Strength25

    The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.

  • Glare Sensitivity25

    The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.

  • Gross Body Equilibrium25

    The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.

  • Mathematical Reasoning25

    The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.

  • Number Facility25

    The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.

  • Stamina25

    The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.

  • Wrist-Finger Speed25

    The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.

  • Speed of Limb Movement19

    The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.

  • Explosive Strength16

    The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.

  • Night Vision16

    The ability to see under low-light conditions.

  • Peripheral Vision16

    The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.

  • Sound Localization16

    The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.

  • Dynamic Flexibility0

    The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.

Work Activities

General types of job behaviors occurring on multiple jobs.

  • Getting Information90

    Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.

  • Thinking Creatively90

    Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.

  • Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates89

    Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.

  • Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships85

    Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.

  • Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events85

    Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.

  • Making Decisions and Solving Problems83

    Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.

  • Working with Computers82

    Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.

  • Controlling Machines and Processes80

    Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).

  • Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge79

    Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.

  • Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials76

    Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.

  • Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People76

    Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.

  • Handling and Moving Objects73

    Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.

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  • Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings72

    Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.

  • Documenting/Recording Information68

    Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.

  • Assisting and Caring for Others66

    Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.

  • Communicating with People Outside the Organization64

    Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.

  • Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work60

    Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.

  • Developing Objectives and Strategies58

    Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.

  • Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment58

    Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.

  • Coaching and Developing Others57

    Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.

  • Developing and Building Teams56

    Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.

  • Performing General Physical Activities54

    Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.

  • Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others53

    Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.

  • Training and Teaching Others53

    Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.

  • Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment52

    Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.

  • Processing Information51

    Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.

  • Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards50

    Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.

  • Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information48

    Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.

  • Performing for or Working Directly with the Public48

    Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.

  • Analyzing Data or Information46

    Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.

  • Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others44

    Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.

  • Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates43

    Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.

  • Scheduling Work and Activities43

    Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.

  • Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others40

    Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.

  • Selling or Influencing Others40

    Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.

  • Providing Consultation and Advice to Others33

    Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.

  • Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment29

    Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.

  • Monitoring and Controlling Resources28

    Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.

  • Performing Administrative Activities27

    Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.

  • Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment24

    Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.

  • Staffing Organizational Units7

    Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.

Work Styles

Personal characteristics that can affect how well someone performs a job.

  • Dependability69

    A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related obligations.

  • Attention to Detail68

    A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.

  • Innovation61

    A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on ways to accomplish work.

  • Adaptability60

    A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas at work.

  • Achievement Orientation52

    A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, set high work-related standards, and exert high effort toward meeting those goals and standards.

  • Cooperation49

    A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.

  • Stress Tolerance49

    A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.

  • Perseverance44

    A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in the face of difficult circumstances or obstacles at work.

  • Self-Confidence44

    A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control one's work-related outcomes.

  • Self-Control44

    A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in response to criticism or difficult situations at work.

  • Tolerance for Ambiguity41

    A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.

  • Initiative34

    A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may fall outside of one's required work role.

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  • Intellectual Curiosity32

    A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep understanding of work-related subjects.

  • Cautiousness30

    A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related decisions or doing work.

  • Social Orientation28

    A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.

  • Optimism24

    A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even under difficult circumstances.

  • Integrity23

    A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.

  • Sincerity11

    A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, without concern for personal gain or self-interest.

  • Leadership Orientation10

    A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.

  • Empathy2

    A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feelings at work.

Interests (RIASEC)

Holland's six occupational interest types (RIASEC) this work tends to attract.

  • Artistic67

    Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.

  • Realistic65

    Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.

  • Conventional44

    Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.

  • Enterprising21

    Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.

  • Investigative17

    Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.

  • Social13

    Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.

Work Context

Physical and social factors that influence the nature of work.

  • Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams

    • Every day95%
  • E-Mail

    • Every day84%
    • Once a week or more but not every day13%
  • Contact With Others

    • Constant contact with others86%
  • Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team

    • Extremely important80%
    • Important19%
  • Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls

    • Continually or almost continually52%
    • More than half the time46%
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate

    • Very important33%
    • Important14%
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled

    • Every day64%
    • Once a week or more but not every day21%
    • Never15%
  • Time Pressure

    • Every day68%
    • Once a year or more but not every month15%
    • Never16%
  • Telephone Conversations

    • Every day64%
    • Never27%
  • Physical Proximity

    • Moderately close (at arm's length)72%
    • Slightly close (e.g., shared office)27%
  • Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities

    • Extremely important23%
    • Very important42%
    • Important16%
    • Fairly important18%
  • Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals

    • A lot of freedom16%
    • Some freedom59%
    • Very little freedom18%
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  • Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results

    • Very important results31%
    • Important results30%
    • Moderate results13%
    • Minor results16%
  • Deal With External Customers or the Public in General

    • Extremely important38%
    • Very important18%
    • Important15%
    • Fairly important16%
    • Not important at all13%
  • Importance of Repeating Same Tasks

    • Extremely important40%
    • Important13%
    • Fairly important37%
  • Consequence of Error

    • Extremely serious34%
    • Very serious16%
    • Serious25%
    • Fairly serious13%
    • Not serious at all13%
  • Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable

    • Every day29%
    • Once a week or more but not every day18%
    • Once a month or more but not every week36%
    • Never16%
  • Freedom to Make Decisions

    • A lot of freedom21%
    • Very little freedom25%
  • Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions

    • Every day30%
    • Once a week or more but not every day26%
    • Once a year or more but not every month22%
    • Never13%
  • Frequency of Decision Making

    • Once a week or more but not every day15%
    • Never37%
  • Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers

    • Very high responsibility33%
    • High responsibility22%
    • Limited responsibility35%
  • Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions

    • Continually or almost continually31%
    • More than half the time15%
    • About half the time14%
    • Less than half the time33%
  • Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions

    • Every day33%
    • Once a week or more but not every day16%
    • Once a month or more but not every week11%
    • Never31%
  • Spend Time Standing

    • Continually or almost continually13%
    • More than half the time21%
    • About half the time31%
    • Less than half the time36%
  • In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment

    • Every day34%
    • Once a week or more but not every day19%
    • Once a year or more but not every month16%
    • Never31%
  • Level of Competition

    • Extremely competitive18%
    • Highly competitive15%
    • Moderately competitive30%
    • Slightly competitive19%
    • Not at all competitive17%
  • Conflict Situations

    • Once a week or more but not every day39%
    • Once a month or more but not every week22%
    • Once a year or more but not every month33%
  • Duration of Typical Work Week

    • More than 40 hours34%
    • 40 hours31%
    • Less than 40 hours35%
  • Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People

    • Once a month or more but not every week14%
    • Once a year or more but not every month24%
    • Never16%
  • Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures

    • Every day15%
    • Once a week or more but not every day33%
    • Once a year or more but not every month18%
    • Never27%
  • Spend Time Sitting

    • More than half the time36%
    • About half the time20%
  • Written Letters and Memos

    • Once a week or more but not every day32%
    • Never22%
  • Health and Safety of Other Workers

    • Very high responsibility31%
    • Limited responsibility44%
    • No responsibility18%
  • Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled

    • Every day16%
    • Once a week or more but not every day20%
    • Once a year or more but not every month30%
    • Never29%
  • Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions

    • Once a week or more but not every day31%
    • Once a year or more but not every month29%
    • Never32%
  • Spend Time Walking or Running

    • About half the time31%
    • Less than half the time60%
  • Outdoors, Under Cover

    • Once a week or more but not every day30%
    • Once a year or more but not every month16%
    • Never46%
  • Exposed to Hazardous Equipment

    • Every day15%
    • Once a month or more but not every week18%
    • Once a year or more but not every month17%
  • Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body

    • About half the time16%
    • Less than half the time67%
    • Never14%
  • Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment

    • Important25%
    • Fairly important30%
    • Not important at all40%
  • Exposed to Contaminants

    • Once a month or more but not every week36%
    • Once a year or more but not every month20%
    • Never43%
  • Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance

    • About half the time31%
    • Less than half the time30%
    • Never40%
  • Degree of Automation

    • Moderately automated14%
    • Not at all automated33%
  • In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment

    • Once a month or more but not every week15%
    • Once a year or more but not every month19%
    • Never57%
  • Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling

    • Less than half the time74%
    • Never23%
  • Public Speaking

    • Once a month or more but not every week15%
    • Once a year or more but not every month25%
    • Never55%
  • Work Schedules

    • Irregular (changes with weather conditions, production demands, or contract duration)37%
    • Regular (established routine, set schedule)63%
  • Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets

    • Once a month or more but not every week21%
    • Once a year or more but not every month30%
  • Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings

    • Once a month or more but not every week15%
    • Once a year or more but not every month37%
  • Exposed to Hazardous Conditions

    • Once a month or more but not every week15%
    • Once a year or more but not every month11%
    • Never68%
  • Exposed to High Places

    • Once a year or more but not every month36%
  • Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People

    • Once a year or more but not every month31%
    • Never67%
  • Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles

    • Less than half the time30%
    • Never70%
  • Exposed to Radiation

    • Never91%
  • Exposed to Whole Body Vibration

    • Once a year or more but not every month20%
    • Never80%
  • Exposed to Disease or Infections

    • Once a year or more but not every month16%
    • Never84%
  • Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection

    • Never93%

Typical Education Levels Reported

Education levels O*NET survey respondents in this occupation most often reported having.

  • Associate’s degree or other 2-year degree
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Some college, no degree

Technology Skills

Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

  • Video creation and editing software

    Adobe After Effects, Apple Final Cut Pro, TikTok, YouTube

  • Graphics or photo imaging software

    Adobe Creative Cloud software, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop

  • Analytical or scientific software

    Litchi, Pix4D Pix4Dcapture

  • Spreadsheet software

    Microsoft Excel

  • Electronic mail software

    Email software

  • Document management software

    Adobe Acrobat

  • Desktop publishing software

    Adobe InDesign

  • Office suite software

    Microsoft Office software

  • Cloud-based data access and sharing software

    Google Drive

  • Word processing software

    Microsoft Word

  • Presentation software

    Microsoft PowerPoint

  • Web page creation and editing software

    Adobe Dreamweaver

Professional Associations

Related Occupations

Detailed Work Activities

More specific, granular versions of the Work Activities above.

  • Determine technical requirements of productions or projects.
  • Operate still or video cameras or related equipment.
  • Edit audio or video recordings.
  • Coordinate activities of production personnel.
  • Set up still or video cameras or related equipment.
  • Collaborate with others to determine technical details of productions.
  • Inspect sets or exhibits.
  • Select materials or props.
  • Review details of technical drawings or specifications.
  • Operate communications, transmissions, or broadcasting equipment.
  • Maintain recording or broadcasting equipment.
  • Manage content of broadcasts or presentations.
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  • Direct productions or performances.
  • Write informational material.
  • Create computer-generated graphics or animation.
  • Research new technologies.

Apprenticeship Occupations

Registered apprenticeship program titles associated with this occupation.

  • Camera Operator
O*NET in-it

This page incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Based on federal labor and demographic data. Data source & methodology

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