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Grip Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Tsutsumida Pictures

Be Seen First

Architectural Photo Assistant - NO LA CANDIDATES, ENTRY LEVEL OK

Tustin, CA · On-site

$350 - $400/day

Tasks include: - Load In/Out Grip Vehicle - Setup lighting and grip equipment - Prep interior and exterior spaces - Maintain organized set - Heavy lifting required (some furniture, grip, etc ...

Nen Creative

Cinematographer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$70K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You should be comfortable owning camera, lighting, and grip setups across a wide range of productions, from scrappy founder interviews to polished commercials and brand films. You'll work closely ...

Nen Creative

Cinematographer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$70K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You should be comfortable owning camera, lighting, and grip setups across a wide range of productions, from scrappy founder interviews to polished commercials and brand films. You'll work closely ...

Lamps Plus

Receiver

Redlands, CA · On-site

$18.10/hr

... Grip/Grasp ☐ ☐ ☒ ☐ ☐ Fine finger movement/pinch ☐ ☐ ☒ ☐ ☐ Pay Rate: $18.10 Schedule: Monday to Thursday

Lamps Plus

Receiver

Redlands, CA

... Grip/Grasp ☐ ☐ ☒ ☐ ☐ Fine finger movement/pinch ☐ ☐ ☒ ☐ ☐ Pay Rate: $18.10 Schedule: Monday to Thursday

ZIXTA ENTERPRISES INC

Cashier V44

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Grasp/Grip product to place in shopping bags. * Constant sweeping/pushing broom to pick up debris to keep work area clean * Reaching above shoulder level to placement items into shopping bags.

VALLARTA SUPERMARKETS

Cashier V44

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Grasp/Grip product to place in shopping bags. * Constant sweeping/pushing broom to pick up debris to keep work area clean * Reaching above shoulder level to placement items into shopping bags.

Trade Team

Riggers Shipyard

San Diego, CA · On-site

$22 - $32/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Handle winches, grip hoists, pulleys, cables, ropes, mooring lines and other equipment Requirements: * * Start onboarding (per Labor Providers Policies/Procedures) * * DBIDS * Ship Access * Schedule ...

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All JobsGrip JobsGrip Jobs in California

Grip information

See California salary details

$5

$20

$44

How much do grip jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for grip in California is $20.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.83 and $24.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Grip vs Gaffer?

AspectGripGaffer
Primary RoleAssist with equipment setup, rigging, and supporting camera and lighting gearIn charge of lighting design, setup, and operation on set
Required SkillsKnowledge of rigging, equipment handling, safety protocolsLighting techniques, electrical knowledge, creative lighting design
Work EnvironmentFilm sets, TV productions, commercialsFilm sets, TV productions, commercials
CertificationsNone mandatory, but safety and rigging certifications helpfulElectrical and lighting certifications often preferred

While both roles work closely on set, the Grip primarily handles rigging and supporting equipment, whereas the Gaffer is responsible for lighting design and execution. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in film and television production.

How to get work as a grip?

To work as a grip, gain experience by volunteering or working on student or independent film sets, and develop skills in equipment setup, rigging, and safety procedures. Building a network within the industry and obtaining relevant certifications, such as OSHA safety training, can improve job prospects. Having a flexible schedule and familiarity with tools like C-stands, clamps, and rigging hardware are also beneficial.

What is a grip?

Grips are essential crew members on film and television sets responsible for building and maintaining the equipment that supports cameras and lighting. They handle tasks such as setting up tripods, dollies, tracks, and rigs to ensure the camera can move smoothly and safely during filming. Grips also work closely with the cinematographer and gaffer to shape and control lighting. Their role is physically demanding and requires technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and teamwork.

How much does a grip get paid?

A grip's salary varies depending on experience, location, and union status, but on average, they earn between $20 and $50 per hour. Entry-level grips typically start around $15 to $20 per hour, while experienced professionals can make over $50 per hour. Many grips work on a freelance basis, and pay may include overtime and per diem allowances.

What are the most common challenges encountered by a grip on set, and how can they be managed effectively?

Grips frequently face challenges such as tight shooting schedules, last-minute changes to lighting setups, and working in physically demanding conditions. Managing these challenges requires strong communication with the Director of Photography and other crew members, adaptability, and a solid understanding of rigging and safety protocols. Staying organized and maintaining equipment readiness also help grips respond efficiently to on-the-fly adjustments, ensuring the shoot runs smoothly and safely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a grip?

To thrive as a Grip, you need a solid understanding of lighting, rigging, and set safety, along with physical stamina and basic mechanical aptitude. Familiarity with industry-standard equipment such as dollies, cranes, C-stands, and specialized rigging tools is necessary, and completion of safety certifications like OSHA may be required. Strong teamwork, problem-solving, and clear communication skills help grips collaborate effectively under tight schedules. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and creative support for camera and lighting departments, which is essential for smooth film and TV production workflows.

What are the most commonly searched types of Grip jobs in California?

The most popular types of Grip jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Grip jobs in California?

For Grip jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Grip jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Grip jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Grip jobs?

Cities in California with the most Grip job openings:

Grip jobs near you
Infographic showing various Grip job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, and 26% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,655 per year, or $20 per hour.

Gaffer / Grip / AC (Part-Time Over-Hire)

AMDA

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

AMDA College and Conservatory of the Performing Arts, with campuses in New York City and Hollywood, is one of the foremost post-secondary performing arts colleges in the country. AMDA offers Bachelor of Fine Arts degree programs in Acting, Musical Theatre, Dance Theatre and Performing Arts, as well as two year conservatory programs.
The Gaffer/Grip/AC (Part-Time) is responsible for supporting the Cinematographer on AMDA Film projects throughout each semester. Projects are student written, and act as a culminating class project that is captured by a professional crew. Gaffer/Grip duties include planning the technical execution of scene lighting, safely and efficiently, within the bounds of available resources. The position will collaborate with the Cinematographer/Shooter and Director/Editor, as well as lead student crew, for each assigned project.
 
Primary Responsibilities
  • Plan technical setup of lighting, working with Cinematographer and Director
  • Setup and breakdown equipment (lighting, set, or camera as requested.
  • Assure safety of students and crew on set
  • Be accountable for equipment inventory and organization during load in, load out, and while on set
  • Provide guidance and direction to student crew
  • Work within available location and equipment resources
  • Assist cinematographer with setup and maintenance of camera equipment, monitors, and support systems (jib, dolly, Steadicam, etc.)
  • Assist cinematographer with focus pulling and media management.
  • Coordinate with DIT for handoff of media and confirmation of successful footage transfer.
Qualifications
  • BA or BFA in a related field preferred
  • 1 – 2 years of previous experience in a similar position
  • Experience in Film Production
  • Flexible attitude; friendly customer service skills and professional demeanor
  • Excellent communication skills both written and verbal
  • Must be reliable to shooting assignments once confirmed (typically weekends)
  • Must be able to lift up to 75lbs and climb stairs and ladders
Position Information
  • This position is on an as needed basis and there is no guarantee of hours 
  • The pay range for this position is $30 – $40 per hour
  • This position is subject to a background check upon a conditional offer of employment and a reference check
  • This is a fully in-person Position
Diversity and Qualifications
AMDA is fully committed to diversity, inclusivity, and equity throughout the teaching and learning process. We encourage applications from individuals who have extensive experience working with students from diverse backgrounds. Successful candidates will have a sensitivity to, and understanding of, the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, gender identity, sexual orientation, and ethnic backgrounds of our students, including disabilities that may affect students' development and learning styles. Members of traditionally underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply.
 
AMDA provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment in which no person is subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, creed, age, disability, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military and veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all aspects of employment, including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, placement, supervision, promotion, working conditions, termination, layoff, demotion, transfer, compensation, and training. 

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