How to Become a Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film in Washington
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Films in Washington earn a median salary of $53,340/year, which is 22% below the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a camera operators, television, video, and film takes home approximately $2,330/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a camera operators, television, video, and film can afford in Washington
Becoming a camera operators, television, video, and film in Washington
Meet education requirements
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film positions in Washington typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Washington. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many camera operators, television, video, and film positions in Washington require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Washington licensure or certification
Washington may require specific licensing or professional certification for camera operators, television, video, and films. Requirements vary by state — contact the Washington Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Washington
Washington employs 630 camera operators, television, video, and films. The highest concentrations are in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue and Spokane-Spokane Valley.
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $53K | $25.64/hr | 510 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $35K | $16.6/hr | 50 |
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film salary range in Washington
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 Washington?▼
The median camera operators, television, video, and film salary in Washington is $53,340 per year ($25.64/hr). This is 22% below the national median of $68,810. Salaries range from $39,630 to $114,870.
What are the requirements to become a camera operators, television, video, and film in Washington?▼
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film positions in Washington typically require Bachelor's degree. Washington may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Washington licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a camera operators, television, video, and film afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $53,340, a camera operators, television, video, and film in Washington would take home approximately $3,742/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 37.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for camera operators, television, video, and films in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for camera operators, television, video, and films in Washington are Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($53,340), Spokane-Spokane Valley ($34,530). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for camera operators, television, video, and films?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means camera operators, television, video, and films keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.