Job Description

Position Summary

The ENG Photographer is responsible for capturing high-quality video and audio for live and recorded news, features, and special projects. This role requires strong technical expertise, editorial judgment, and the ability to work independently or alongside correspondents in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments. The ideal candidate thrives in breaking news situations and demonstrates strong storytelling instincts, safety awareness, and operational efficiency in the field.

Key Responsibilities

• Shoot and transmit live and recorded video using ENG cameras, bonded cellular systems, satellite trucks, and/or IP-based transmission workflows
• Collaborate with reporters, producers, and assignment desks to execute compelling visual storytelling
• Operate lighting, audio, and field production gear to ensure broadcast-quality output
• Set up and manage live shots under tight deadlines and changing conditions
• Drive and operate news vehicles safely, including ENG SUV’s and vans (where applicable)
• Ability to edit simple VO/SOTs in the field using non-linear editing systems (Mimir, Adobe Premiere, Avid, etc.)
• Maintain and troubleshoot camera, audio, lighting, and transmission equipment
• Follow all safety protocols in high-risk environments (weather events, civil unrest, breaking news scenes)
• Assist with logistics, field coordination, and technical planning for major events and special coverage
• Maintain professional conduct when interacting with the public, law enforcement, and event officials

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience as an ENG Photographer in a broadcast news environment
• Strong knowledge of professional camera systems (Sony, Panasonic, etc.)
• Experience with live transmission (bonded cellular) systems (LiveU, TVU, Dejero) and satellite trucks
• Proficiency in field lighting and audio gathering
• Solid understanding of newsroom workflows and deadline pressures
• Non-linear editing experience required
• Valid driver’s license with clean driving record
• Ability to lift and carry 50+ lbs. of equipment
• Flexible schedule including nights, weekends, holidays, and extended breaking news coverage
• Willing to travel across the United States depending on news coverage

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience covering breaking news in a top 10 market
• FAA Part 107 drone certification
• Experience with IP-based workflows and cloud ingest systems
• Familiarity with Chicago metro area and regional logistics

Key Competencies

• Strong visual storytelling instincts
• Calm under pressure
• Excellent communication and teamwork
• Situational awareness and field safety judgment
• Self-starter with high accountability
• Technical adaptability

Physical & Work Environment

• Work performed in studio, office, and field environments
• Exposure to varying weather conditions and unpredictable field situations
• Must be able to stand for extended periods and transport field gear

Additional Information

As part of our selection process, external candidates may be required to attend an in-person interview with a VERSANT Media employee at one of our locations prior to a hiring decision. VERSANT Media's policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, gender identity or expression, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, membership in the uniformed services, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable law.

For LA County and City Residents Only: VERSANT Media will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories, or arrest or conviction records, in a manner consistent with relevant legal requirements, including the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, and the California Fair Chance Act, where applicable.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran and require support throughout the application and/or recruitment process as a result of your disability, you have the right to request a reasonable accommodation. You can submit your request to candidateaccessibility@versantmedia.com.

VERSANT Media is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. We include a good faith pay range for each position to comply with applicable state and local pay transparency laws and to promote equity across our organization. Actual compensation will be based on factors such as the candidate's skills, qualifications, experience, and location and may include additional forms of compensation and benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, etc.

_ VERSANT Media is not accepting unsolicited assistance from search firms for this employment opportunity. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at VERSANT via-email, the Internet, or in any form and/or method without a valid written Statement of Work in place for this position from VERSANT's Talent Acquisition team will be deemed the sole property of VERSANT. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by VERSANT as a result of the referral or through other means._