What a Grip Actually Does on Set
A Grip is responsible for building, rigging, and maintaining all of the non-electrical equipment that supports the camera and lighting departments. On a typical shoot in Burbank, that means constructing camera dollies and track, setting up cranes and jibs, rigging scaffolding, placing apple boxes and sandbags, and making sure every piece of grip equipment is safe, stable, and ready when the Director of Photography calls for it.
The Key Grip leads the grip department and works closely with the Gaffer and DP to execute the lighting plan, while Best Boys and additional Grips handle the physical labor of pulling, setting, and striking gear throughout the day. A strong Grip knows how to read a set quickly, anticipate what the camera team needs next, and solve rigging problems without slowing down the shoot.
What to Look for When Hiring a Grip in Burbank
Burbank productions range from major studio features and episodic television to commercials, branded content, and independent films. The right Grip for your project depends on scale, but a few qualities matter across the board:
- Solid experience with the specific format you are shooting, whether that is a multi-camera sitcom, a single-camera drama, or a commercial
- Familiarity with the gear packages common in the LA market and a working relationship with local rental houses
- A current C-10 or similar relevant certification if rigging work is involved, and a clean safety record
- Strong communication with the camera and lighting departments, since grip work sits directly at the intersection of both
- References from recent productions you can actually check
Grip Rates in Burbank
Grip rates in the Burbank and greater Los Angeles area vary based on union status, experience level, and the type of production. IATSE Local 80 covers grip workers on union productions, and day rates on those projects typically follow the applicable Basic Agreement minimums. On non-union independent productions, rates are negotiated directly and tend to run lower, though experienced Grips in this market know their value. As a general frame of reference, Key Grip day rates in the LA market typically run higher than in smaller regional markets, reflecting both cost of living and the depth of experience available here. Budget accordingly and be upfront about your rate when posting.
Find and Book a Grip Fast with NeedaCrew
NeedaCrew is the marketplace built specifically for US and Canadian film and TV productions. Crew profiles are verified, so you can review credits, equipment experience, and union affiliation before you reach out. You are not scrolling through a generic freelance platform hoping someone knows what a speed rail is.
If you are a producer or production coordinator with a shoot coming up in Burbank, post your project now and start receiving responses from qualified local Grips: Post your project on NeedaCrew.
If you are a Grip based in Burbank or the greater LA area looking for your next gig, create your crew profile today: Join NeedaCrew as a crew member.