How to Become a Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film in Illinois
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Films in Illinois earn a median salary of $82,950/year, which is 21% above the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~4.9%. After taxes and rent, a camera operators, television, video, and film takes home approximately $3,808/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a camera operators, television, video, and film can afford in Illinois
Becoming a camera operators, television, video, and film in Illinois
Meet education requirements
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film positions in Illinois typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many camera operators, television, video, and film positions in Illinois require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Illinois licensure or certification
Illinois may require specific licensing or professional certification for camera operators, television, video, and films. Requirements vary by state — contact the Illinois Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Illinois
Illinois employs 870 camera operators, television, video, and films. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin.
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film salary by metro area in Illinois
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $83K | $39.88/hr | 680 |
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film salary range in Illinois
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a camera operators, television, video, and film make in Illinois?▼
The median camera operators, television, video, and film salary in Illinois is $82,950 per year ($39.88/hr). This is 21% above the national median of $68,810. Salaries range from $33,260 to $126,700.
What are the requirements to become a camera operators, television, video, and film in Illinois?▼
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film positions in Illinois typically require Bachelor's degree. Illinois may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Illinois licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a camera operators, television, video, and film afford to live in Illinois?▼
At the median salary of $82,950, a camera operators, television, video, and film in Illinois would take home approximately $5,220/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 27% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for camera operators, television, video, and films in Illinois?▼
The highest paying metro areas for camera operators, television, video, and films in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($82,950). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Illinois have state income tax for camera operators, television, video, and films?▼
Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.9%. On a $82,950 salary, this means roughly $4,106/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.