Grip Job Description
A grip is an employee who works on sets for films and television shows. Their job is to help the key grip design the set so that it meets the director’s specifications. This is a task that involves the completion of a variety of tasks. For example, a grip may be asked to assemble heavy equipment, build support structures for cameras and lighting fixtures, or guide cranes and booms using control levels and wheels. An employee in this role may also dismantle frames and scaffolding after filming is complete.
To qualify for this position, an employee needs to have solid mechanical abilities. They have to be able to use hand tools in a variety of ways and be physically strong enough to lift heavy objects.
Employers who hire for the grip position tend to look for previous experience in a similar role. Specific education is not usually required.
Grip Job Description Template
We’re looking for a skilled and hard-working grip to add to our staff. In this role, it will be your job to help us prepare and dismantle sets for TV and film productions. You’ll help us construct the equipment that’s needed to ensure that cameras work properly and that lighting is effective.
You’ll complete a variety of tasks as you work towards these goals. For example, you might be asked to build dolly tracks, rig camera cranes, and hang lights. You will be directed by the key grip who will take their instructions from the director.
To do well in this position, you will need to be mechanically skilled and physically able. You should be able to lift heavy equipment, work in confined spaces, and be willing to work long, sometimes irregular hours.
If you believe that you have what it takes to be a grip, then reach out to us. We’d love to see your resume.
Grip Responsibilities:
- Follow the key grip’s instructions
- Move and install lighting fixtures as dictated by the director
- Construct camera rigs, such as cranes and dollies
- Maintain and repair rigging equipment
- Unpack and set up equipment that’s needed for shooting film
- Design and construct backdrops for the set
- Complete related tasks to help the production process move efficiently
Grip Requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Previous experience in a similar role is preferred
- Excellent mechanical ability
- Physical strength and stamina
- Willingness to work long, irregular hours
- Ability to work well in a team setting
Grip FAQ
What tasks does a grip complete?
A grip helps to prepare a set for a television or film production. They might be asked to prepare lighting fixtures, camera rigs, and sets, among other things. Grips need to be able to install lights and complicated rigs, sometimes in odd places. Grips may also be asked to help set up and dismantle cameras, fixtures, and set pieces at the beginning and end of shoots.
What should I include in my grip help-wanted ads?
We recommend that you follow the outline that we’ve used above. It’s a proven method that will help you attract as many qualified applicants as possible. So start with a few paragraphs that highlight the most important parts of the job before getting more specific with bulleted lists showing its responsibilities and requirements.
Can I use your grip job description template?
Of course! You can use our job description templates however you want. Just make sure that you include any information about your position that differs from what we’ve included above. Doing so is an important way to differentiate your grip job from others.
