What is an Ingest Operator?
An Ingest Operator is an individual who is responsible for managing, accessing and importing data ready for use by Editors.
What is the job?
The role of Ingest Operator involves ingesting a high volume of video rushes in a wide range of different formats from memory cards, cameras, hard drives and various online storage systems. Data ingestion is the process of accessing and importing media ready for immediate use, or for storage in a database for future use. It is their responsibility to transcode media into editable formats and the correct frame rates for the production. Overall, their role is to organise projects for Editors, which can involve setting up project files and syncing camera footage and audio. Their primary duty is to facilitate the timely ingest of media in preparation for edit.
The role requires a solid technical understanding and strong organisational skills. As well as the above duties, you may also be required to compile post-production paperwork and may be asked to assist the edit on certain projects. On top of this, you may be required to undertake other tasks such as general administrative duties.