Who are we hiring?

Sphere Studios is seeking a Camera Field Lead to be a part of the Sphere Studios camera team that supports operation and deployment of the custom Big Sky camera system and other advanced capture technologies for Sphere productions worldwide. This role will report to the Director of Capture Operations and is part of the team responsible for our cutting-edge camera systems and delivering on the highest level of performance on location, supporting groundbreaking immersive and large-format content capture.

This Camera Field Lead will work closely with Sphere’s internal production teams, external filmmakers, and technical partners to execute complex shoots across a variety of environments. This individual will be the on- site expert in Sphere’s bespoke capture systems, large-format imaging, optics, and technical camera configurations, ensuring the successful integration of our technology into production workflows.

This position requires a deep understanding of camera systems, lenses, large-format capture, and support equipment, along with the ability to adapt rapidly to the creative and technical challenges of capturing imagery for immersive environments.

What will you do?

• Keep custom and traditional capture equipment and support gear functioning properly and reliably.
• Serve as an on-site technical lead for Sphere and Big Sky camera system deployments on global productions.
• Operate, configure, and troubleshoot custom and traditional camera systems, including large-format and immersive capture rigs.
• Customize and optimize camera and support systems in the field to achieve creative production goals. 
• Train freelance camera operators, assistants, and production teams in the setup and operation of Sphere capture technology.
• Work closely with production teams to ensure camera systems are ready and functioning reliably at the highest level in remote and extreme locations.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of camera technology, large-format imaging systems, lenses, and emerging trends in immersive capture.
• Provide remote support and technical guidance to production teams using Sphere systems in the field.
• Contribute to the refinement and evolution of Sphere's capture tools based on field findings and production requirements.
• Capture and document technical learnings from production shoots to improve future system performance and expand Sphere's creative toolkit.

What do you need to succeed?

• Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field or equivalent professional experience.
• 10+ years of experience in high-level camera field operations, such as focus puller, camera assistant, specialty camera technician, rental house technician/service advisor, or similar.
• Extensive expertise in large-format imaging, immersive capture formats, and cutting-edge camera, lens, and support Must be fluent with film and video production, equipment, lenses and optics, tools, common service and maintenance protocols.
• Strong familiarity with film and digital cinema production practices, including camera systems, lenses, optics, stabilization, remote control systems, and production tools.
• Exceptional problem-solving skills and ability to adapt systems to meet unique production challenges in diverse environments.
• Proven ability to communicate effectively with production teams, engineers, vendors, and creative stakeholders.
• Familiar with latest developments and innovations in cinema lens optics and/or equivalent optical use.
• Experience managing and mentoring camera teams on complex, high-profile shoots.
• Capable of self-directed work in fast-paced and dynamic production settings.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and technical proficiency with camera systems and related production equipment.
• Strong understanding of electrical engineering principles as they relate to camera systems, including proficiency in soldering, wiring (basic to complex), and troubleshooting electronic components in digital cinema production environments.
• Proficiency with 3D modeling and design software such as AutoCAD, Fusion360, Solidworks and productivity tools like Airtable, Excel, PowerPoint, as well as general notetaking and logging is a plus.
• Requires a high degree of self-directed organization and results-oriented personnel management for high performance.

SUPERVISION:

• Leads camera teams and technical crews on location.
• Collaborates closely with Sphere's camera engineering and production teams.
• Provides training and mentorship to freelance and in-house camera professionals.

Special Requirements:

• Requires international and domestic travel for on-location production support.
• Requires a flexible, production-minded work ethic, helping to establish and codify the new language of Sphere.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. and work in physically demanding production environments.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and be capable of operating production vehicles as needed.

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