Gain insight into the essential qualifications, important duties, key responsibilities, and vital skills that form a well-rounded Grip job description.
What does a Grip do?
A grip is a crucial role in the television and film industry. They are responsible for creating and building production sets, as well as rigging equipment that supports the camera operator. This includes hanging lights, moving structures, and assisting the camera operator.
Job Description
We are looking for an experienced grip to join our production company. As a grip, your main tasks will be designing and constructing sets, as well as rigging camera equipment. You will work closely with the key or dolly grip and may also be responsible for hanging lights, building tracks, and performing rigging duties.
To be successful as a grip, you should have advanced knowledge of carpentry, metalwork, and electrical work. Creativity, good communication skills, and flexibility are also important. A great grip is always ready to build, fix, or adjust equipment to capture the perfect shot.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
- Reporting to the key or dolly grip
- Designing, building, and painting set backdrops
- Setting up camera and rigging equipment
- Assembling camera rigs, such as dollies, jibs, cranes, and tracks
- Testing the safety and strength of rigging setups
- Moving set pieces during filming
- Assisting the camera operator
- Moving light fixtures
- Maintaining and repairing rigging equipment
Requirements and Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Degree in filmmaking preferred
- Previous experience as a grip in the film or television industry
- Advanced skills in electrical work, carpentry, and mechanical work
- Ability to lift and handle heavy equipment
- Comfortable working at heights and in confined spaces
- Flexibility to work long and irregular hours
- Willingness to travel for filming
- Effective communication skills