CTE Career Catalog

Film Grip

Job Desription

A grip is a technician who sets up rigging and equipment to support cameras and lighting on film and television sets. They may operate equipment like dollies, tracks, tripods, cranes, and jibs so directors and cinematographers can record in the way they desire. They will collaborate with the electrical department to set up cables and equipment safely.

Salary average: $58,100

Occupational Outlook

There has been a slight decrease in job openings since 2019, there are less than 2,000 now.

Links to Learn More About This Career:

Educational Requirements:

At least a high school diploma is necessary and considering postsecondary education is recommended.

Valencia College

Address: 500 W Livingston St Orlando, FL 32801

Website: https://valenciacollege.edu/

Information on the Major: https://valenciacollege.edu/academics/programs/arts-entertainment/film-production-technology/index.php

Western Kentucky University

Address: 1906 College Heights Blvd. Bowling Green, KY 42101

Website: https://www.wku.edu/

Information on the Major: https://www.wku.edu/schoolofmedia/undergraduateprograms/photojournalism/photojournalism.php

Asbury University

Address: One Macklem Drive Wilmore, KY 40390

Website: https://www.asbury.edu/

Information on the Major: https://www.asbury.edu/academics/departments/media-journalism/

Soft Skills, Characteristics, and/or Abilities Need For This Career:

Technical knowledge of tools and physical stamina is necessary.

Software Knowledge Needed For This Career:

No real knowledge of software besides lighting tech.

Pros and Cons to Choosing This Career

Pros (Positives to this Career)

You get to work with a DP on set, you are a large factor in the project working as well as it does, and you get to work with everyone on set and talk to most of them.

Cons (Negatives to this Career)

Long hours during and outside of filming, not much recognition once the film is released, and patience is one of the biggest virtues to have as a grip

Typical Working Conditions For This Career:

Heavy hours, working on your feet on set and outside of filming hours

Career Researched By: Stone Kacmarcik