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Test Range Photographer (Photographer V) - Part-Time

Systems Application & Technologies Inc
Ridgecrest, United Statespart_timeVerifiedPosted 14 Jul 2026
💰 $110,000/yr($100,000/yr$110,000/yr)

About the role

Description

Position Type: Part-Time, On-Call, Non-Exempt

Work Location: NAWS China Lake, CA

Pay Info: $50 - $55/hr


PLEASE NOTE: This is a part-time, on-call position to provide SME support


Systems Application & Technologies, Inc. (SA-TECH) is a progressive and well-established Department of Defense (DoD) contractor specializing in Range operations and maintenance (O&M); weapons testing; facilities management; aerial, ground and seaborne targets O&M; technical, logistics and other engineering support; systems integration; electronics and communications maintenance services; and a growing cybersecurity business. We are highly focused and, among other efforts, currently operate a dozen active test and/or training ranges for the Army, Air Force and Navy. Our 36-year heritage is founded on supporting complex and diverse DoD programs and we’ve developed a standout reputation for providing the highest quality services, superior workmanship and cost-effective results while achieving complete customer satisfaction.


We are currently seeking to hire a part-time, on-call Test Range Photographer in support of the Navy’s Weapons Survivability Lab (WSL) at the Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake, CA. SA-TECH is helping ensure that the DoD is provided mission-effective survivable air platforms now, and in the future and the WSL is the Navy’s field activity for weapon system non-nuclear survivability, weapons lethality, and Live Fire Test and Evaluation (LFT&E) and conducts survivability testing for all three major services. WSL also provides resources for rapid innovative solutions to unique prototyping needs of the Navy fleet.


As a Test Range Photographer V, you will serve as a test range photography and videography subject matter expert (SME) using special purpose cameras (still and motion) and related equipment. 


Some of the duties (these may not be all), include:

  • Provide training and SME technical advisement on a wide range of photographic equipment for assignments demanding exact renditions, without the opportunity for later retakes, when there are specific problems or uncertainties concerning lighting, exposure time, color, artistry, etc. 
  • Equipment used includes - but is not limited to - still, graphic, and motion picture cameras; video and television cameras; high-speed camera systems; remote control devices; and timing or measurement control mechanisms.
  • Provide SME input for “best practices” preventative maintenance, repair, assembly, modification, and setup of camera, video, and electronic control and timing systems used for unique test photography assignments. 
  • Provide SME input for test site setup for precise photographic measurement and control equipment using high-speed photography, natural and synthetic light sources, and/or timed electronic triggering.
  • Other tasking, as required to support customer requirements and improve visual data acquisition and reduction processes, may be assigned. 
  • Must work well with others as part of a team or independently as primary photographer.

Work Conditions:

  • Conditions will vary as there will be work to perform outdoors under a variety of weather and climate conditions.
  • Must be able to work outdoors and occasionally from elevated work platforms (with a fall-protection harness) and in temperatures ranging from 0-120 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Duties will include: 45% standing, 20% bending, 15% reaching, 5% sitting, 5% walking, and 10% lifting.
  • You must be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds by yourself.

Requirements

Education/Experience/Skills:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent required.
  • College, military, trade school, or equivalent on-the-job training commensurate with duties desired.
  • Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience based on specialized Live Fire Testing & Evaluation (LFT&E) required.
  • Hands-on experience with comprehensive knowledge of camera and photography equipment.
  • Mastery of skill in using and maintaining camera, video, and/or electronic equipment.
  • Editing (Adobe Premier, Final Cut, etc.) and video (HD, 4k High-Speed) experience desired. 
  • Must have extensive experience with documentation, cataloging, and/or data reduction for photo/visual data.
  • Must possess an ability to work tactfully with professional engineers, technicians, and management staff at all levels of effort.
  • Must have ability to interpret test plans and program requirements. 
  • Ability to work at heights while using appropriate fall protection h

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Company

Systems Application & Technologies Inc

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