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Production Grip Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Production, Supervisor

Lake Forest, CA · On-site

$67K - $113K/yr

Overview Production, Supervisor-Lake Forest, CA Who We Are: Ever wonder who brings the ... Ability to grip, pinch, grasp, bend, crouch, kneel and twist to operate various tools and machines

Strong understanding of film production set operations, including roles and responsibilities across departments such as directing, camera, grip, electric, sound, and video village. Advanced knowledge ...

Strong understanding of film production set operations, including roles and responsibilities across departments such as directing, camera, grip, electric, sound, and video village. Advanced knowledge ...

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Production Baker

Oakland, CA · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Market Hall Foods is looking for a detail-oriented, imaginative, and meticulous Production Baker ... Able to grip with hands, twist, and stir Certifications Provided: * Food Handler Certification * CA ...

Cinematographer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$70K - $120K/yr

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 ...

Cinematographer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$70K - $120K/yr

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 ...

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Production Grip information

What is a production grip?

Production Grips are essential crew members on film, television, and video sets who are responsible for setting up, maintaining, and moving equipment that supports cameras and lighting. They build and adjust rigs, dollies, and tracks, help with lighting modification, and ensure the safety and efficiency of the production process. Grips work closely with the Director of Photography and Gaffer to achieve the desired visual effects, making them a vital part of the technical team on set.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a production grip, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Production Grip, you need a solid understanding of set operations, rigging techniques, and basic mechanical knowledge, often acquired through hands-on experience or vocational training. Familiarity with grip equipment, dollies, cranes, and lighting support gear is essential, and safety certifications like OSHA may be required. Physical stamina, teamwork, problem-solving, and strong communication are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities are crucial for maintaining safe, efficient, and visually effective productions on set.

What are some common challenges a production grip faces on set, and how can they be overcome?

Production Grips often encounter challenges such as working under tight time constraints, adapting to last-minute changes, and maneuvering heavy or unwieldy equipment in limited spaces. To overcome these, strong communication with the camera and lighting departments is essential, as is maintaining a high level of physical fitness and safety awareness. Proactivity, flexibility, and a willingness to collaborate with other crew members help ensure smooth operations and successful problem-solving on set.

What is the difference between Production Grip vs Camera Assistant?

AspectProduction GripCamera Assistant
Primary RoleHandling equipment like rigging, lighting, and set supportAssisting with camera setup, maintenance, and operation
Required SkillsKnowledge of grip equipment, safety protocolsUnderstanding of camera systems, lens, and focus
Work EnvironmentOn set, outdoor and indoor locations, physically demandingOn set, close to camera operators, technical tasks
CertificationsNone mandatory, safety training preferredCamera-specific certifications often preferred

Production Grips and Camera Assistants work closely on set but have distinct roles. Grips focus on rigging and supporting equipment, while Camera Assistants handle camera setup and maintenance. Both roles require technical knowledge and safety awareness, but their daily tasks and skill sets differ significantly.

How much do production grips make?

Production grips typically earn between $200 and $600 per day, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the production. Entry-level grips may start at lower rates, while experienced professionals working on larger projects can earn higher wages. Many grips are paid hourly or daily and may receive overtime or per diem allowances.

What does a production grip do in production?

A production grip is responsible for setting up, adjusting, and maintaining equipment that supports the camera and lighting crews, such as tripods, dollies, and rigging. They work closely with the camera department to ensure smooth operation and safety on set, often using tools like clamps and stands. The role requires physical strength, knowledge of safety protocols, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Production Grip jobs?

Cities in California with the most Production Grip job openings:

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

AMDA

Los Angeles, CA

$30 - $40/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 22 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.