Boom Operator

Job Description:

A boom operator assists the production sound mixer and is a key member of the production audio crew. They operate boom microphones, select and place radio microphones, and maintain the audio equipment. Boom microphones capture audio for videos and they are a dedicated member of the sound crew. Operating the mic well requires excellent technique and to follow a scene to get the cleanest audio, the operators have to memorize the actors’ blocking. Boom operators also help select and place remote mics on actors.

Salary: The salary range for Boom Operators runs from $37,000 to $121,000. The median salary for a Boom Operator is approximately $72,000. Lloyd states that almost all Boom Operators begin as contracted or freelance workers. Boom As of Feb 8, 2023, the average annual salary for a Boom Operator in the U.S. is 47,612 a year which is about 22.89 dollars an hour. There is a wide range of salaries which vary greatly suggesting there are opportunities for increased pay based on skill level, location, and experience.

Occupational Outlook:

There are many job openings for this career around the world. I couldn’t find an outlook of the career but there seem to be many opportunities at the moment.

Links to Learn More About This Career:

https://www.local695.com/magazine/the-utility-sound-tech/

https://www.owlguru.com/career/boom-operators/

https://www.berklee.edu/careers/roles/boom-operator

Educational Requirements:

Boom operators usually don’t need a college education but of those who do go to college, the most common degree for this career is a bachelors degree. Boom operators with an an associates degree earn more than those without, those with a bachelors degree make little more than those with a high school diploma degree.