Key Grip information
See Connecticut salary details
$14.48 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$12.55 - $16.41
37% of jobs
The median wage is $18.34 / hr.
$16.41 - $20.27
13% of jobs
$20.27 - $24.13
6% of jobs
$25.77 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$24.13 - $27.99
29% of jobs
$27.99 - $31.85
4% of jobs
$31.85 - $35.71
2% of jobs
$35.71 - $39.57
1% of jobs
$39.57 - $43.43
1% of jobs
$43.43 - $47.29
0% of jobs
$47.29 - $51.15
0% of jobs
How much do key grip jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for key grip in Connecticut is $21.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.96 and $25.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
Key Grips are the head of the grip department on a film or television set. They are responsible for overseeing all grip equipment, which includes rigging, lighting support, and camera movement systems. Key Grips work closely with the Director of Photography to shape and control lighting, using equipment like flags, diffusers, and dollies. Their expertise ensures that lighting setups are safe, efficient, and achieve the creative vision of the production.
To thrive as a Key Grip, you need a deep understanding of lighting, rigging, and camera support systems, often gained through hands-on experience and sometimes formal training in film production. Familiarity with industry-standard grip equipment, safety protocols, and tools like dollies, cranes, and rigging hardware is essential. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help coordinate crews and adapt to on-set challenges. These skills ensure smooth production workflows, safety, and the realization of the director's creative vision.
Key Grips often encounter challenges such as adapting to last-minute changes in camera setups, working in tight or unpredictable locations, and ensuring safety when rigging equipment. They overcome these by maintaining strong communication with the Director of Photography and other departments, staying organized under pressure, and relying on their technical expertise to find creative solutions quickly. A collaborative attitude and keen attention to detail are essential in ensuring both the efficiency and safety of the crew during production.
Key grips typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the scale of the production. They often work long hours on set and need skills in rigging, lighting, and safety protocols.
To become a key grip, gain experience as a grip or assistant grip on film or television sets, develop skills in lighting and rigging, and build a strong network within the industry. Obtaining relevant certifications and understanding safety protocols are also important for advancing to a key grip position.
A key grip is the head of the grip department on a film or television set, responsible for overseeing camera movement, rigging, and lighting support equipment. They work closely with the director of photography to shape the visual look of a production and ensure safety on set, often using tools like dollies, cranes, and scaffolding. The role requires technical skills, physical strength, and knowledge of safety protocols.
What job categories do people searching Key Grip jobs in Connecticut look for?
The top searched job categories for Key Grip jobs in Connecticut are:
