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Trainee Grip Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Trainee Grip information

What is a trainee grip?

Trainee Grips are entry-level crew members in the film and television industry who assist with the setup, adjustment, and maintenance of production equipment, particularly related to camera support and lighting rigs. They work under the supervision of more experienced grips and learn the essential skills needed for the role, such as handling stands, dollies, rigs, and safety procedures. Trainee Grips play a vital part in ensuring that equipment is safely and efficiently managed on set, gaining hands-on experience to advance in the grip department.

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

To thrive as a Trainee Grip, you need a solid understanding of basic film set operations, physical stamina, and a willingness to learn on the job. Familiarity with grip equipment, rigging tools, and safety protocols is essential, though on-the-job training is common and formal certifications are not always required. Strong teamwork, effective communication, and attention to detail help you collaborate with crew members and anticipate needs. These skills ensure safe, efficient support for camera and lighting setups, which is critical to smooth film production.

What are some typical challenges trainee grips face when starting out on set?

Trainee Grips often encounter challenges such as adapting to the fast-paced and physically demanding nature of film sets. They need to quickly learn various equipment names, functions, and safety protocols, all while working under tight schedules. Building effective communication skills is essential, as Trainee Grips frequently collaborate with other crew members, especially the camera and lighting departments. Proactively asking questions and seeking guidance from experienced Grips can help overcome the learning curve and establish a strong foundation for career growth.

What is the difference between Trainee Grip vs Grip?

AspectTrainee GripGrip
CredentialsOn-the-job training, no formal certification requiredExperience-based, may have certifications or training courses
Work EnvironmentAssist with equipment setup, support senior grips on setOperate equipment, set up lighting and rigging
Industry UsageEntry-level position in film and TV productionSkilled role with more responsibilities in the same industry

The main difference between a Trainee Grip and a Grip is experience and responsibility. Trainee Grips are typically entry-level, assisting experienced grips and learning on the job, while Grips are more experienced professionals responsible for technical tasks like rigging and equipment operation. Both roles are essential in film production, with Trainee Grips serving as a stepping stone to becoming a full Grip.

How to become a trainee grip?

To become a trainee grip, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should gain knowledge of film set operations, safety protocols, and equipment handling. Entry often involves assisting experienced grips, learning about tools like C-stands and rigging gear, and demonstrating reliability and physical fitness. Some may pursue relevant courses or certifications in film production or safety to improve prospects.

How to get started as a trainee grip?

To start as a trainee grip, gain basic knowledge of film equipment and safety procedures, often through on-the-job training or apprenticeships. Developing skills in handling grip equipment, understanding set protocols, and obtaining relevant certifications can improve your chances of entry into the role.

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

The top searched job categories for Trainee Grip jobs in Texas are:

What cities in Texas are hiring for Trainee Grip jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Trainee Grip job openings:

Infographic showing various Trainee Grip job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

SHI - NDE TECHNICIAN - Shreveport, LA

Stronghold Specialty, Ltd

La Porte, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Inspect or measure the integrity of materials, components, or structures without damaging them to ensure safety and quality.

  • Document NDT methods, processes, or results, and prepare reports on NDT findings.

  • Select, calibrate, and operate equipment used in NDT of products or materials.


Job description

Summary/ Objective
The position of an NDT (non-destructive testing) Technician is responsible for inspecting or measuring the integrity of a material, component, or structure without demining to ensure safety and quality, increase production or extend the life of equipment and system components. A NDT Technician will perform work as required to maximize the quality of the Company while maintaining the specified expectations of the client and ensure safe working environment while performing work and will conduct all Company business in accordance with Company policies and procedures. This position will maintain professionalism throughout all business dealings, both internally and externally.


Essential Functions
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

1. Document NDT methods, processes, or results.
2. Evaluate information to determine compliance with standards using relevant information and individual
judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
3. Identify defects in materials using various NDT techniques.
4. Interpret or evaluate test results in accordance with applicable codes, standards, or specifications or
procedures.
5. Prepare reports on NDT results.
6. Select, calibrate, and operate equipment used in the NDT of products or materials.
7. Super or direct the work of NDT trainees or staff as required.
8. Visually examine materials, structures or components using tools and visual aids such as endoscopes,
closed circuit television systems, and fiber optics for signs of corrosion, metal fatigue, cracks, or other
flaws.
9. Develop or use new NDT methods such as acoustic emission testing, leak testing, and thermal or infrared
testing.
10. Identify defects in concrete or other building materials using X-Ray, thermal or infrared testing.
11. Evaluate material properties using portable X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) analyzers.
12. Adopt a Company attitude in all client, vendor, employee, and outside contact interactions.
13. Actively pursue continuing technical education courses or seminars.
14. Ensure all work is performed in accordance with applicable environmental, health, safety and building
codes as required by federal, state, local and refinery regulations.
15. Maintain poise and focus under time constraint and adverse conditions.
16. Attend and complete trainings as required by the Company and client.
17. Pass all required drug/alcohol testing and background requirements.
18. Perform other related duties as assigned.

Other Duties
Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice that are job-related and
consistent with business necessity.

Work Environment
This job operates in a petrochechemical / refinery environment. Exposure to cold working conditions during
winter months and hot working conditions during the summer months; exposure to noise, workers must wear
protecting hearing equipment or frequently shout in order to be heard above ambient noise level. In an
emergency situation, exposure to hazardous chemicals may occur and the use of a respirator is required. All
employees are required to be fit tested for the various respirators used as well as the ability to successfully pass a
pulmonary function test (PFT).

Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to
successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
The position of an NDT Technician can be extremely physical at times. While performing the duties of this job, the
employee is regularly required, and for long periods of time to bend, stoop, walk, climb, squat, reach, kneel,
push/pull, stand, sit, hand strength and dexterity. An NDT Technician will frequently lift up to 25 pounds and
occasionally lift more than 50 pounds. Must be able to work in confined spaces. Must be able to work at heights
and be able to climb ladders and stairways and work off platforms. Move about on hands and feet, bending body
downward and forward bending leg and spine- working in a bent over position. Ability to verbally communicate
alarms or warnings clearly, concisely, loudly, and quickly. Clearly and quickly hear or otherwise sense alarms or
warning and take appropriate action, maintain equilibrium to prevent falling when moving, walking, standing,
kneeling or crouching- particularly on narrow, uneven, irregular, slippery surfaces, going up and down ladders,
stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles or other objects using hands, arms, feet or legs. Sensing physical attributes such
as size, shape, temperature, texture, or sharpness of an object by touching. Must possess foot agility and
dexterity- operating pedals, foot controls, kick bars and other similar tasks that require foot or toe motion. Grasp,
grip and/or apply pressure to an object with the fingers, palm, holding an object in the hand. Lift, raise or lower
objects in a vertical direction, particularly heavy or bulky objects. Move objects backwards, forward, in or out in a
horizontal direction, particularly heavy or bulky objects. Pulling, exerting a steady backward, downward, upward,
or outward force against an object- jerking, wrenching, stretching, towing, drawing, dragging or tugging objects in
sustained motion. Reaching, extending the hand (s) and/or arm(s) in any direction. See, read, write, and
understand communication including directions, instructions, and warning signs. Ability to see and distinguish
colors, to visually distinguish shapes and patterns, to accurately sense distances (depth perception), to accurately
see objects and detect motion and wide angles (peripheral vision). Vision must be a Jaeger #1, corrected or
uncorrected.

Position Type/ Expected Hours of Work
This is a project- based position. Typical days and hours of work are variable/ project dependent. Over-time work
is common and may be required as job duties demand.

Travel
Travel is expected. Extensive travel throughout U.S. and overnight stay for extended periods of time.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement
Stronghold is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Stronghold is committed to providing equal
employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and
harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics,
veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression, or any other characteristic that is protected by
federal, state or local laws.


Required Education and Experience
High school diploma or equivalent job experience. NDT Certification. Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques. Valid TWIC. Basic Plus training. Confined Space training. Required Certifications: UT-T / PT / MT


Preferred Education and Experience
Bachelor’s degree in related field of study or equivalent job experience. Petrochemical/refinery experience. OSHA
10/30 training. First Aid and CPR trained. Class “A” driver’s license and a clean MVR.