Serves as an operator of a precise aerial mapping camera on vertical and oblique photographic missions; cleans, adjusts and maintains aerial cameras.

Determines the type of film to be used, type of filter, proper exposure, proper overlap or interval between exposures according to type of terrain to be photographed, the level and crab of the camera, film speed at low and high temperatures, filter factors, aperture opening, shutter speed, and all other related data necessary to ensure proper and acceptable aerial film negatives, and operates the aerial mapping camera on aerial photographic missions for both vertical and oblique photography to obtain the best possible results consistent with prevailing weather conditions;

Utilizes a variety of hand‑held cameras for small format or terrestrial cameras on aerial projects, or as needed, on ground photography projects;

Performs inspection, lubrication and adjustment to the aerial camera, according to approved procedure and keeps a concise and accurate account of each negative exposure, time of day, atmospheric conditions, altitude, direction and number of flights accomplished;

Assists in the preparation of flight plans, photo‑indexes, mosaics, photo‑maps, and other reproductions; assists in film editing and annotation;

Processes aerial film by use of continuous automatic processing equipment and/or wind‑rewind method; evaluates exposed film for proper density and exposure; may perform other photographic laboratory tasks, including contact printing and enlarging;

May instruct other employees in aerial camera operation to provide adequate "back‑up" capabilities for aerial photography;

Performs other work as required.

Knowledge of:  aerial photography techniques and procedures; black and white and color aerial film characteristics; basic aerial photo‑lab and photogrammetric techniques; map reading; aerial camera functions and capabilities; elementary weather terminology.

Ability to: maintain and operate precise aerial cameras; make proper selection of type of film and filter for photographic flight operations; prepare flight maps and relate from maps to ground and direct pilot over flight lines; process aerial film and prints; instruct others in aerial camera operation; keep concise and accurate records and accounts of aerial photography operations; evaluate negatives for proper density and exposure; analyze situations accurately and make effective decisions on obtaining suitable photography during marginal weather conditions.

There may be instances where individual positions must have additional licenses or certification. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure the appropriate licenses/certifications are obtained for each position.

Two hundred flight hours of experience in operating an aerial mapping camera.

Equivalent education/experience.

Revised May 21, 1973 Revises definition and minimum qualifications
Revised April 14, 1982 General revision
Revised December 9, 1983 Title change (Formerly Aerial Photographer)
Revised new class code: (formerly 73640) effective July 1, 2007