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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 ...

Proception Inc.

Softgoods Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$120 - $170/hr

Grip, compliance, durability, and tactile sensing all live or die at the surface. You'll work at the frontier of soft materials engineering, where elastomer mechanics, textile construction, and ...

Hormel Foods Corporation

PW 3-SAN-CLMB-BF

Hayward, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

Walk, stand, stoop, bend, reach, grasp, grip, pull and pull. * Lift up to 70 lbs * Ability to work in cold and wet environment * Ability to work in hot and wet environment * Ability to work with and ...

Hormel Foods

PW 3-SAN-CLMB-BF

Hayward, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

Walk, stand, stoop, bend, reach, grasp, grip, pull and pull. * Lift up to 70 lbs * Ability to work in cold and wet environment * Ability to work in hot and wet environment * Ability to work with and ...

Aquent

Photo Production Equipment Lead

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$42 - $46.67/hr

Troubleshoot camera, lighting, grip, and digital equipment issues in real time to keep production moving smoothly without downtime. * Assist on the ground with gear setups, rapid bay switch-overs ...

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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 Sep 7, 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 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.

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 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 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 get work as a grip, gain experience by working on film or television sets, often starting in entry-level roles or as a production assistant. Developing skills in rigging, equipment handling, and safety, along with networking within the industry, can improve job prospects; some grips also pursue relevant certifications or training programs.

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.

PT Production Stage Manager/Grip

Tribune Media

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$50.35/hr

Part-time

Posted 5 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Stage manage daily newscasts and other original productions, including Special Events, Creative Services, Sales and Client productions.

  • Coordinate staging logistics, including production cues, set changes, props, and talent positions, during live broadcasts.

  • Organize and supervise all set changes, ensure studio readiness for live and breaking news, and communicate real-time updates to studio crew.

Job description

PART-TIME Production STAGE MANAGER / GRIP

DEPARTMENT: PRODUCTION

REPORTS TO: PRODUCTION MANAGER

DUTIES:

  • Stage Manage daily newscasts and other original productions, including Special Events, Creative Services, Sales and Client productions.
  • Responsible for run of show on stage, during telecast, including production cues, set changes, placement of props and talent positions.
  • Responsible for all staging logistics on and off camera.
  • Work with crew to set up staging areas prior to live broadcasts.
  • Review all Facilities Sheets and communicate with producers to confirm props, set elements and staging requirements for studio produced segments.
  • Meet daily with producers and directors and verify staging requirements for upcoming segments. Identify production elements including props and set elements.
  • Communicate directly with Control Room producers and directors, and update production logistics in real time to studio crew.
  • Organize and supervise all set changes including props and furnishings.
  • Ensure the News production studio is prepped for live broadcast and breaking news at a moment's notice.
  • Responsible for maintaining production staging areas for on-air presentation. Including set elements, dressings, flooring, and furnishings.
  • Contributes to all areas of studio support operations and maintaining a safe workspace. Including storage systems, supplies inventory, set maintenance, props, lighting, fire aisles, identifying and reporting trip hazards, and maintaining a safe workspace.
  • Work with the Lighting team to maintain accurate and up to date stage marks.

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Three to five years professional experience in live television stage management and grip.
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills.
  • Must be an effective leader and be able to motivate people.
  • Needs to work well under the pressure of a live broadcast.
  • Should have a strong fundamental understanding of video and audio production equipment and capabilities.
  • Working knowledge of News operating systems including ENPS a plus.
  • Computer skills should also include Microsoft Office/Outlook experience.
  • Must be able to make quick decisions and give accurate instructions to stage personnel during live broadcasts.
  • Prop and grip experience a must.
  • Must work well as a member of a team and be able to be a competent team leader.
  • Must be a member of IATSE or willing to join.
  • Applicant must be willing to work varied shifts which may include mornings, nights, weekends, and holidays.

AVAILABLE: Immediately.

Compensation: $50.35 hourly

EEO Statement: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations.

KTLA will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Hiring Ordinance.

#LI-Onsite (for LinkedIn)

SCAM ALERT:

Please be aware candidates may be at risk of being targeted by scammers seeking personal data or money. Recruiters with Nexstar Media Group and its local stations will only contact you through official job boards, LinkedIn, or email with Nexstar.tv domain or official station email addresses (example:@wreg.com). Be cautious of any outreach claiming to be from Nexstar or its recruiters via any other messaging platforms or personal email addresses. We will not contact you using a @gmail email address. If you are unsure about the authenticity of a job inquiry or offer, email us at corporaterecruiters@nexstar.tv.

UNION POSITION: This position is represented by IATSE and is subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable collective bargaining agreement. The successful candidate will need to be a member of IATSE or willing to join.

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