Technical Assistant – Grip, Gaffer, Boom operator, Best Boy

Technical assistants work with lighting/sound technicians to produce the lighting and sound effects in live theatre, concerts/corporate events, or in film/TV productions.

They work as part of a crew:

  • gaffers and their assistant - the Best Boy - set-up all technical aspects of the lighting rig and have a background as lighting electricians;
  • the Grip is a camera technician helping with cabling, laying tracks, aerial camera systems etc;
  • Boom Operators are responsible for production sound operating Booms and placing microphones for optimum sound quality - working closely with all other technical production staff.

A lighting assistant's tasks vary according to the type of production, but could include: helping to rig up the lighting equipment; making sure that lighting equipment and generators are working; helping to set up generators on location; programming consoles and loading automated colour change systems before a show; and taking down the equipment after shows or filming.

A sound assistant's duties may include: helping to set up equipment to suit the acoustics and the sound designer’s instructions; positioning and adjusting microphones; monitoring sound quality; recording onto digital audio tape; and servicing/repairing equipment.

Earnings in film and TV can be over £12,000 - £20,000 a year, although you may need to work for low pay at the start of your career.

Freelance work is much more common than full-time ongoing work, and rates can vary widely. You could negotiate fees based on the type of production and your own track record. Contact BECTU for current pay guidelines.

To become a lighting technician you will need relevant practical experience – either take a full or part-time college course and find your own work experience or find a traineeship with a specialist lighting company.

You could look for work experience: with specialist TV/film lighting companies; with lighting equipment hire companies; with BBC work placements (competition is strong); at theatres or concert venues; in amateur theatre; and in student or community film projects.

To become a sound assistant, you will need knowledge of sound technology and an understanding of physics and electronics. Many sound engineers start by taking a course in sound engineering, media technology or music technology, to develop skills before looking for work.

When looking for your first job, you will find it useful to have practical experience of using sound equipment.

Taking a relevant course can help, and you can also build experience through activities like working on student or community film projects, rigging sound for amateur theatre or local bands, working for a sound equipment manufacturer or hire company and assisting in a recording or editing studio.

Contact Skillset Careers for more advice about finding relevant work experience.