What a Grip Actually Does on Set
A Grip is responsible for building and maintaining all the mechanical equipment that supports the camera and lighting departments. On a Montreal production, that means rigging camera dollies and track, assembling cranes and jibs, managing the company grip truck, and working closely with the Gaffer to ensure lighting rigs are structurally sound and safe. Grips are problem-solvers by nature. When a location throws a curveball, a skilled Grip finds a way to make the shot work within the constraints of the space, the schedule, and the budget.
The Key Grip leads the grip department and is your primary point of contact for anything involving camera movement and rigging. Below the Key Grip you will typically find Best Boys, Grips, and on larger sets, Dolly Grips who specialize in operating the dolly and track during takes. Knowing which level of Grip you need before you post helps you get accurate bids and avoid scope creep on set.
What to Look For When Hiring a Grip in Montreal
Montreal has a well-developed production community, and you will find Grips with credits ranging from indie shorts to major studio productions and international co-productions. When reviewing candidates, look for:
- Verified credits on comparable productions, in terms of budget and format
- Familiarity with the gear houses and rental facilities common to the Montreal market
- A current safety card and, where applicable, union affiliation appropriate to your production
- Strong references from Directors of Photography and Gaffers they have worked with before
- Availability confirmed against your specific shoot dates, not just a general window
Rate Context for Montreal Grips
Rates for Grips in Montreal vary based on experience level, union or non-union status, the type and scale of production, and the length of the engagement. Key Grips on mid-range commercial or episodic work typically earn more per day than a day-call Grip on a lower-budget independent project. Quebec productions that qualify for provincial tax credits sometimes have more flexibility in their below-the-line budgets, which can affect what experienced crew expect to be paid. As a general practice, always confirm whether rates are quoted as a flat day rate, a 10-hour or 12-hour base, and what the overtime structure looks like before you lock someone in.
How NeedaCrew Helps You Find and Book Faster
NeedaCrew is a North American marketplace built specifically for film and TV crew hiring. Every crew member on the platform has a verified profile with real credits, making it easier to shortlist candidates without spending hours on cold outreach. You can post your project, specify the role, location, dates, and budget range, and start receiving responses from Montreal-based Grips quickly.
If you are a producer or production coordinator ready to staff up, post your project on NeedaCrew and connect with experienced Grips in Montreal today.
If you are a Grip looking for your next Montreal production, join NeedaCrew as a crew member and get your profile in front of producers who are actively hiring.