What a Key Grip Does on Your Set
The Key Grip is one of the most essential department heads on any production. Working closely with the Director of Photography, the Key Grip is responsible for designing and executing all camera support and grip rigging, including dollies, cranes, jibs, and track. They also build and manage lighting support structures, flags, diffusion frames, and any rigging that shapes or controls light on set.
A strong Key Grip reads a shot list and figures out the physical infrastructure needed to make each setup work safely and efficiently. They lead the grip department, supervise the Best Boy Grip, and coordinate with the electric department so lighting and grip work in sync. On a busy set in Burbank, where turnaround times can be tight and studio protocols strict, a Key Grip who communicates clearly and solves problems fast is invaluable.
What to Look for When Hiring a Key Grip in Burbank
- Demonstrated experience on productions of a similar scale and format, whether that is a studio feature, a streaming series, a commercial, or a branded content shoot.
- Familiarity with the specific gear your production is using, including any specialty rigs, remote heads, or motion-control equipment.
- A track record of working safely and maintaining a clean, organized grip truck.
- Strong references from DPs and production coordinators who can speak to their reliability and attitude under pressure.
- Knowledge of California safety regulations and any applicable union protocols if your production is signatory to IATSE.
Key Grip Rates in Burbank
Rates for Key Grips in the Burbank area vary depending on the type of production, the scale of the project, and whether the production is union or non-union. Union productions covered by IATSE Local 80 scales will have minimum rates set by the collective bargaining agreement. On non-union productions, day rates and weekly rates are negotiated directly. Typically, experienced Key Grips in the Los Angeles market command rates that reflect both their expertise and the local cost of doing business. When posting your project, be upfront about your budget range so you attract candidates who are a genuine fit.
How NeedaCrew Makes It Faster
NeedaCrew is a US and Canada marketplace built specifically for film and TV production. Every crew member on the platform has been through a verification process, so you are not sorting through cold resumes with no context. You can post your project with the details that matter, including shoot dates, location, project type, and rate, and receive responses from Key Grips who are available and interested.
Ready to find your Key Grip? Post your project on NeedaCrew and start hearing from verified grip talent in the Burbank area today.
Are you an experienced Key Grip looking for your next gig in Burbank or the greater Los Angeles area? Join NeedaCrew as a crew member and connect with producers who need your skills.