Electronic News Gathering Camera Operator Onboarding Checklist

Electronic News Gathering Camera Operator Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Electronic News Gathering Camera Operator starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Media onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Electronic News Gathering Camera Operator, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Electronic News Gathering Camera Operator onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Electronic News Gathering Camera Operator Onboarding Checklist

1. Equipment familiarization: The camera operator needs to become familiar with the specific electronic news gathering (ENG) equipment used by the company. This includes cameras, lenses, microphones, tripods, and any other accessories. The task is typically performed by the equipment manager or a senior camera operator who guides the new hire through the equipment and its functionalities.

2. Safety training: Safety is of utmost importance in the media industry, especially for camera operators who often work in challenging environments. The new hire should receive comprehensive safety training, covering topics such as proper lifting techniques, working at heights, electrical safety, and personal protective equipment (PPE) usage. This training is usually conducted by the company’s safety officer or a designated safety trainer.

3. Newsroom orientation: To understand the workflow and dynamics of the company, the camera operator should receive an orientation session in the newsroom. This task involves introducing the new hire to the newsroom staff, explaining the roles and responsibilities of different team members, and providing an overview of the news production process. The newsroom manager or a senior producer typically performs this task.

4. Story assignment process: Understanding how stories are assigned and prioritized is crucial for an ENG camera operator. They need to know who to report to for story assignments, how to communicate their availability, and how to manage multiple assignments simultaneously. The task is usually explained by the assignment editor or a senior producer responsible for coordinating the news coverage.

5. Field reporting protocols: ENG camera operators often work closely with field reporters, so they need to be familiar with the protocols and expectations for field reporting. This includes understanding how to collaborate effectively with reporters, capturing necessary shots, conducting interviews, and adhering to journalistic ethics. The task is typically explained by the news director or a senior field producer.

6. Technical troubleshooting: As an ENG camera operator, it is essential to have a basic understanding of troubleshooting common technical issues that may arise in the field. This includes troubleshooting camera settings, audio problems, connectivity issues, and other equipment-related challenges. The task is usually performed by the company’s technical support team or a dedicated camera technician.

7. Editing and file management: ENG camera operators often need to edit their footage and manage files efficiently. They should receive training on the company’s preferred editing software, file naming conventions, file transfer protocols, and archiving procedures. This task is typically performed by the video editor or a senior camera operator with editing expertise.

8. Ethical guidelines and legal considerations: Understanding the ethical guidelines and legal considerations specific to the media industry is crucial for an ENG camera operator. They need to be aware of privacy laws, copyright issues, defamation risks, and other legal aspects related to news gathering and reporting. This task is usually covered by the company’s legal team or a designated legal advisor.

9. Team collaboration and communication tools: To ensure smooth collaboration within the news team, the camera operator should be introduced to the company’s communication tools and platforms. This includes email systems, instant messaging apps, project management software, and any other tools used for internal communication and coordination. The task is typically performed by the IT department or a designated team member responsible for technology training.

10. Company policies and benefits: Lastly, the new hire should receive an overview of the company’s policies, including attendance, leave, code of conduct, and any other relevant policies. Additionally, they should be informed about employee benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities. This task is usually covered by the human resources department or a designated HR representative

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Electronic News Gathering Camera Operator checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Electronic News Gathering Camera Operator up to speed and working well in your Media team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.