Camera Operator

Churchill Downs Incorporated•Louisville, KY

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Seasonal Part-Time Camera Operator supports the live production and broadcast of thoroughbred racing at Churchill Downs Racetrack. Under the direction of the Technical Director, this position operates professional broadcast cameras, including traditional tower cameras and remote Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) cameras, to capture live race coverage, paddock activity, beauty shots, racehorses, and other broadcast elements. Camera Operators may be assigned to tower camera or remote PTZ camera positions based on production needs and must be able to perform either assignment. This seasonal position averages approximately 28–35 hours per week during the live racing season.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required.
Knowledge of live television broadcast and camera operations.
Ability to operate professional broadcast camera equipment with accuracy and precision.
Ability to learn and operate both traditional and remote PTZ camera systems.
Ability to follow direction and respond quickly to production cues in a fast-paced live environment.
Strong attention to detail and situational awareness.
Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
Reliable transportation.
Ability to work the live racing schedule, including days, evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Kentucky racing license and successfully complete all applicable background check requirements.

Nice To Haves

Experience operating professional broadcast cameras in a live sports or live event production environment preferred.
Experience with PTZ camera systems preferred.
Experience or knowledge of the Thoroughbred racing industry preferred.

Responsibilities

Operate professional broadcast cameras, including traditional tower cameras and remote PTZ camera systems, during live thoroughbred racing broadcasts.
Capture assigned shots including live race action, racehorses, paddock coverage, on-track activity, beauty shots, and other broadcast elements.
Follow direction from the Technical Director and respond to camera assignments and production cues during live broadcasts.
Adjust camera framing, focus, movement, and positioning as appropriate to the assigned camera and production needs.
Maintain focus and situational awareness throughout live racing and broadcast activity.
Ensure assigned camera equipment is operated safely and effectively to produce high-quality broadcast coverage.
Assist with camera and related broadcast equipment setup, operation, and breakdown as assigned.
Identify and communicate equipment or technical issues to the appropriate production team member.
Collaborate with the broadcast and production team to support successful live productions.
Comply with all broadcast, operational, and safety procedures.
Perform other duties as assigned.