Contract Videography Specialist

We are looking for NYC-based freelancers who are frequently available on a per-gig basis for part-time work as video camera operators. Merelis Productions specializes in 2-camera videography and live streaming of stage events, primarily for K-12 schools and performing arts organizations. Our typical gigs are musicals and plays, dance performances, concerts, graduations, and lectures. (No weddings/parties.) Our videography staff includes performers, writers, freelance videographers, editors, musicians, artists, and more.

Our videographers:

• Have a flexible/open schedule allowing them to take frequent gigs on varying dates and times, including daytime on weekdays.
• Are able to submit their available dates several weeks in advance, and commit to gigs that are assigned based on availability.
• Have excellent communication skills and reply to emails promptly.
• Enjoy the performing arts.
• Arrive on time, every time.
• Want more experience working in video.

Videography experience is welcome but not required for Cam2 operators. We train videographers on the job in our standardized approach to performance videography.

This is part-time work. Those who are currently employed full-time or seeking full-time employment should not apply.

The time commitment for a videography gig, including travel, can range from a few hours to a full day, based on the event start time, length, and location. Our team arrives 2-3 hours ahead to set up, and typical events can range from 30 minutes long (a kindergarten play) to 3 hours long (a long musical). The pay is a flat rate of $220 per gig for Camera 1 or $190 per gig for Camera 2, plus additional pay for non-standard events, and for events with more than 3 hours of continuous videography. Each gig day includes a meal paid for by the company.

Gigs take place on weekdays and weekends during our active season that runs from October through June. Most gigs are in NYC, New Jersey, Long Island, and Connecticut. We classify our staff as employees and pay via W-2 for tax purposes (not 1099). Employment taxes will be withheld from each paycheck. We offer a 401(k) and ROTH 401(k) benefit to all employees, with up to 4% matching contributions.

Please read the following:

• This is part-time and seasonal work, not a full-time job.
• Candidates must be available for in-person interviews in the Bronx.
• Priority will be given to applicants with open availability in their schedule.
• As many of our events are in schools, we seek applicants who are comfortable working in a school environment, with good communication and reliability.
• You should live within NYC (only Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, Bronx) and have access to the subway. Exceptions can be made for videographers with full time use of their own vehicles.
• Applicants with a car available will be given strong consideration. We pay a $45 stipend if we book you to drive equipment/crew on a gig.
• We will consider all applicants who respond to this posting in a detailed way. We are looking for intelligent, interesting, creative people to join our team of freelancers.

Ok, you’ve made it this far. Keep reading!

TO APPLY: Please email us your resume and a cover letter containing your answers to the following questions. Send to Andrew@Merelis.com. You must answer the questions to be considered for the job:

1) Videography: What drew you to this job posting? Do you have experience in video or anything related? (Experience is not required for Cam2 applicants.)

2) Skills: Why do you think reflex-based hand-eye coordination is important when videotaping a live event? Do you believe you have this capability? Explain!

3) Availability: How would an additional freelance job fit into your existing schedule? What is your availability during the first two weeks in June? Please be as specific as you can.

4) Other Work/Life: What are your current creative and income-producing pursuits?

5) Transportation: Do you have a car that you are willing to use for gigs, with front driver and passenger air-bags? If so, what is the make/model/year? If not, are you amenable to using our corporate Zipcar account and driving a Zipcar paid for by the company? Do you have any issue with being a passenger in one of our employees' cars or Zipcars?

6) In what borough/neighborhood do you reside for the foreseeable future?

7) If you could videotape any event or performance – past, present, future, or imaginary – what would it be and why?

We are looking to fill multiple slots on our roster at this time. Select candidates will be scheduled for interviews by phone and at our home office in the Pelham Gardens neighborhood of The Bronx, a 10 minute walk from the 5 train.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: From $190.00 per day

Expected hours: 5 – 15 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Flexible schedule

Work Location: Multiple locations

Salary : $45 - $220