Field Operations Lead

Central Photo Company•Washington, DC

9h•$22 - $27•Onsite

About The Position

Central Photo Company is seeking a Field Operations Lead, a hands-on member of Team Capitol responsible for the precision, pace, and consistency of their field photography operation. This role involves working alongside greeters, groupers, photographers, and other field crew members while taking ownership of the onsite process. The Field Operations Lead ensures each production day is properly planned, the crew and equipment are prepared, groups are arranged efficiently, photographs meet Central's standards, and reservations begin and end on time. This position requires strong spatial reasoning, quick mental math, and the ability to solve problems in real time without disrupting the day. The role also focuses on improving the operation by identifying inefficiencies, developing better group arrangements, refining procedures, protecting equipment, and making the live production process easier for the crew. This is a physical and mental role that may involve greeting customers, arranging and directing groups, photographing when needed, carrying equipment, and stepping into any part of the field operation that requires attention. The work takes place outdoors in all types of weather and requires punctuality and availability for early mornings, Saturdays, some holidays, and extended production days, especially during peak seasons in spring and fall. Outside of peak season, the schedule includes occasional reservations and ongoing operational responsibilities such as process improvement, equipment maintenance, inventory, permits, documentation, and preparation for upcoming production periods.

Requirements

Approximately 3–5 years of relevant experience in photography, field operations, live production, events, hospitality, tourism, logistics, military public affairs, or another high-volume environment.
Photography fundamentals, including exposure, focus, composition, camera operation, file handling, and visual quality control.
Experience coordinating fast-moving work involving customers, crews, equipment, and fixed timelines.
Ability to direct large groups with confidence, clarity, and composure.
Strong spatial reasoning and the ability to perform quick, accurate mental math when calculating row sizes and group formations.
Exceptional attention to detail.
Strong organization and time-management skills.
Demonstrated punctuality and reliable attendance.
Ability to follow established procedures while recognizing opportunities to improve them.
Strong judgment and the ability to make practical decisions in real time.
Clear verbal and written communication.
Valid driver’s license and reliable access to a personal vehicle. Public transportation alone does not meet this requirement.
Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift and carry equipment (up to 30lbs), and remain active outdoors for extended periods.
Ability and willingness to work outdoors in rain, cold, heat, wind, snow, humidity, and other changing conditions.
Availability for early mornings, Saturdays, some holidays, and extended production days based on reservation volume.
Ability to maintain a flexible schedule during Central’s spring and fall peak seasons.

Nice To Haves

Military public affairs
Photojournalism or visual journalism
Live production or stage management
Hands-on production coordination
High-volume restaurant floor management
Event or tour operations
Field logistics

Responsibilities

Lead Field Production: Turn each day’s reservations into a clear field plan and ensure the crew and equipment are prepared before the first group. Lead onsite production, including group formations, crew assignments, equipment setup, timing, and transitions. Arrange and photograph groups as needed while keeping reservations and the full production day on schedule.
Protect Quality and Accuracy: Own field quality control before groups are released, including photograph quality and accurate reservation details. Ensure photographs and reservation information are transferred accurately and completely to the Lab Crew Editors.
Maintain Operational Readiness: Maintain and account for cameras, equipment, supplies, and inventory, coordinating repairs and replacements as needed. Keep permits, operational records, and recurring deadlines current.
Improve the Operation: Work with the Head of Operations, Client Operations, and the production team to identify inefficiencies and develop, test, and implement better formations, procedures, and safeguards. Document successful methods so the crew can execute them consistently.