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Photographer pay range

State of North Carolina · class code 32002403

$33,902 to $59,327 per year$33,902$59,327MINIMUM · MIDPOINT $46,614 · MAXIMUM

Published per year range, State of North Carolina

Class code
32002403
Pay group
NC05
Pay unit
Year
State
North Carolina

Class specification

The OSHR class specification for this class is published by North Carolina Office of State Human Resources (OSHR). The passages below are quoted from it as published, not paraphrased, and cut to their opening sentences; the full specification is the authority on duties and qualifications. It was last revised 06/2018.

What the state says the job is

This is highly skilled and advanced technical work in photography and film processing. Employees use a variety of standard and specialized photographic and lighting equipment in taking still and motion pictures in black and white and color of scientific research, promotional, informational, and artistic works and activities. Positions in this classification require the ability to exercise creativity and artistic techniques in the production of works. Position in this classification are responsible for processing film using standard and specialized photographic developing, enlarging, and printing techniques. Work may involve producing training and documentary films, supervising and operating a microfilm laboratory, and supervising lower level multimedia technicians. Work is performed with a high level of independence and is reviewed for quality of work and achievement of desired effect.

Knowledge, skills and abilities

Thorough knowledge of modern photographic techniques, materials, and processes. Thorough knowledge of lighting techniques both natural and artificial lighting. Highly skilled in developing negatives, printing pictures, and operating complex cameras and equipment. Ability to plan and take still and motion pictures that effectively illustrate desired theme or program. Ability to plan, supervise, and evaluate the work of subordinates. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the general public, publicity groups, and others contacted in the course of work. Ability to exercise creative judgment in deciding the correct approach.

Minimum qualifications

Associate's degree in media production, photography, commercial art, or related degree from an appropriately accredited institution and three years of experience in photographic work; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. <h2

Quoted from the OSHR class specification, read 2026-10-21.

Where this comes from

North Carolina Office of State Human Resources (OSHR) publishes this figure in OSHR salary schedules, joined to Class Specifications. Every number on this page is read from that document; nothing is estimated, modelled or averaged.

Job titles and their salary grades come from the Class Specifications, joined to the salary schedule.

Nearby classes in North Carolina

Procurement Technician $33,902 to $59,327HR Technician I $33,902 to $59,327Residential Life Trainer $33,902 to $59,327Graphic Designer I $33,902 to $59,327Housekeeping Supervisor I $33,902 to $59,327Security Coordinator $33,902 to $59,327Highway Patrol Telecommunicator $33,902 to $59,327SOIU Telecommunicator $33,902 to $59,327

Photographer in other states

StateMinimumMaximumPer year at full time
Idaho$39,543$79,086$39,543 to $79,086
Illinois$61,524$90,852$61,524 to $90,852
Maine$22.51$31.50$46,821 to $65,520
Ohio$24.88$31.47$51,750 to $65,458

Each state publishes its own range for a classification with this exact title. Duties, grade structures and bargaining units differ between states, so read each class page before comparing.

All North Carolina classifications