Senior Level First Assistant Camera Jobs
Senior level first assistant camera jobs place experienced professionals in charge of on-set focus systems, camera department coordination, and the technical decisions that keep production running to spec. Hiring concentrates in Technology & Software, Electronics & Hardware, and Manufacturing, with Apple, HP, and NVIDIA actively bringing on senior talent at this level now.
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SUMMARY
Apple is where individual imaginations gather together, committing to the values that lead to great work. Every new product we build, service we create, or Apple Store experience we deliver is the result of us making each other’s ideas stronger. That happens because every one of us shares a belief that we can make something wonderful and share it with the world, changing lives for the better. It’s the diversity of our people and their thinking that inspires the innovation that runs through everything we do. When we bring everybody in, we can do the best work of our lives. Here, you’ll do more than join something — you’ll add something.
DESCRIPTION
The Camera Hardware Engineering group is responsible for all research, design, development, test and qualification of camera hardware for Apple products. The team is looking for a Camera Optical Engineer to develop and support custom lens design and development.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree in Optical Science, Optical Engineering, Physics, Mathematics or related field with relevant industry experience.
- Experience in lens design fundamentals, metrology, and/or integration.
- Experience using an optical software package (examples may include: ZEMAX, CODE V, FRED, LightTool, etc.).
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Master's or PhD and a minimum of 10 years relevant industry experience.
- Experience in lens design tolerance and stray light analysis.
- Experience in lens characterization methodology and instrumentation.
- Ability to perform comprehensive optical and image quality characterization of the lens and the camera module.
- Must be high energy multi-tasker resourceful problem solver ability to work within tight deadlines.
- Working knowledge of optomechanics is a plus.
- Ability to travel internationally 10% - 15% per year.
COMPENSATION
- The base pay range for this role is between $184,700 and $324,800, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.
Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple’s discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You’ll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses — including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation.
Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.
Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We seek to promote equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics.
At Apple, we believe accessibility is a fundamental human right. You’ll find that idea reflected in everything here — in our culture, our benefits and our digital tools. By welcoming as many perspectives as possible, we help you build a career where you feel like you belong.
Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.
SUMMARY
Apple is where individual imaginations gather together, committing to the values that lead to great work. Every new product we build, service we create, or Apple Store experience we deliver is the result of us making each other’s ideas stronger. That happens because every one of us shares a belief that we can make something wonderful and share it with the world, changing lives for the better. It’s the diversity of our people and their thinking that inspires the innovation that runs through everything we do. When we bring everybody in, we can do the best work of our lives. Here, you’ll do more than join something — you’ll add something.
DESCRIPTION
The Camera Hardware Engineering group is responsible for all research, design, development, test and qualification of camera hardware for Apple products. The team is looking for a Camera Optical Engineer to develop and support custom lens design and development.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree in Optical Science, Optical Engineering, Physics, Mathematics or related field with relevant industry experience.
- Experience in lens design fundamentals, metrology, and/or integration.
- Experience using an optical software package (examples may include: ZEMAX, CODE V, FRED, LightTool, etc.).
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Master's or PhD and a minimum of 10 years relevant industry experience.
- Experience in lens design tolerance and stray light analysis.
- Experience in lens characterization methodology and instrumentation.
- Ability to perform comprehensive optical and image quality characterization of the lens and the camera module.
- Must be high energy multi-tasker resourceful problem solver ability to work within tight deadlines.
- Working knowledge of optomechanics is a plus.
- Ability to travel internationally 10% - 15% per year.
COMPENSATION
- The base pay range for this role is between $184,700 and $324,800, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.
Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple’s discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You’ll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses — including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation.
Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.
Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We seek to promote equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics.
At Apple, we believe accessibility is a fundamental human right. You’ll find that idea reflected in everything here — in our culture, our benefits and our digital tools. By welcoming as many perspectives as possible, we help you build a career where you feel like you belong.
Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.
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Top Industries Hiring
- Technology & Software
- Electronics & Hardware
- Manufacturing
- Aerospace & Defense
Senior Level First Assistant Camera Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a senior level first assistant camera job?
Employers at this level expect a deep portfolio of scripted or high-volume production credits where you owned focus pulls under difficult conditions. What gives candidates an edge is demonstrated leadership of the camera department, a reputation for clean, consistent work on demanding shoots, and relationships with cinematographers who can vouch for your judgment. Certifications in advanced camera systems and lens testing workflows also strengthen your case.
Which companies hire senior level first assistant cameras?
Companies hiring senior level first assistant cameras right now include Apple, HP, and NVIDIA, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Hiring at this level typically comes from established production companies, major studios, and commercial production houses that run high-budget projects requiring experienced camera department leadership.
Are there remote senior level first assistant camera jobs?
Yes, though most on-set roles require a physical presence on location or at a studio. About 20% of senior level first assistant camera openings are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, and these tend to be pre-production, camera testing, or production management positions rather than active shooting roles.
What makes a first assistant camera role senior level?
Senior level first assistant camera roles are defined by full ownership of the camera department's technical execution, including lens selection, focus system configuration, and coordination with the director of photography. At this stage, professionals are expected to mentor second assistants and trainees, troubleshoot complex focus challenges independently, and make real-time decisions that protect the quality of every frame without escalating routine issues upward.
Which industries hire the most senior level first assistant cameras?
Senior Level first assistant camera roles concentrate in Technology & Software, Electronics & Hardware, and Manufacturing, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. These sectors drive hiring because they consistently produce long-form content, high-budget commercials, and feature projects that demand experienced focus pullers who can deliver under production pressure.