About Company
Join Hiring.zycto, where innovation meets illumination in every project. We are a dynamic production company driven by a passion for visual storytelling and exceptional craftsmanship. For a Gaffer, our collaborative sets offer the perfect canvas to push creative boundaries, experiment with cutting-edge lighting techniques, and contribute to award-winning content. We empower our team members to take ownership, providing an environment rich with diverse challenges from commercials to feature films. If you thrive on transforming artistic visions into breathtaking visual realities through light, Hiring.zycto is your stage for impact and growth, fostering an atmosphere where your expertise truly shines.
Job Description
Hiring.zycto is seeking an experienced and highly skilled Gaffer – Lighting to join our dynamic production team in Corktown, Hamilton. As a pivotal member of our crew, you will be instrumental in shaping the visual aesthetic and emotional impact of our projects, ranging from captivating commercials and corporate videos to engaging short films and feature-length productions. We are looking for a visionary leader who possesses a deep understanding of light, shadow, and color, capable of translating directorial and cinematographic visions into stunning on-screen realities. This role demands not just an eye for detail but also the technical acumen to bring those details to life with precision and artistry.
In this challenging and rewarding role, you will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the lighting department. Your expertise will be crucial in designing, setting up, and executing complex lighting schemes that enhance storytelling and create desired moods, adapting swiftly to changing creative directives and technical constraints. You will work closely with our Directors of Photography (DPs), directors, and other department heads to ensure seamless integration of lighting with camera movements, set design, and overall production objectives. This involves not only the artistic application of light but also the practical management of equipment inventory, power distribution systems, rigging, and the effective supervision of a dedicated lighting crew, including electricians and grips. You’ll manage budgets for lighting equipment rentals and consumables, ensuring projects remain on schedule and within financial parameters without compromising quality.
The ideal candidate will demonstrate not just technical proficiency but also exceptional problem-solving abilities, especially in fast-paced and demanding on-set environments. You will be expected to anticipate challenges, innovate solutions, and maintain the highest standards of safety for both personnel and equipment, adhering strictly to industry regulations. Your leadership will inspire and guide your team, fostering a collaborative atmosphere where creativity flourishes and efficiency is paramount. If you are passionate about crafting unforgettable visual experiences and are ready to contribute your exceptional talent to a company committed to excellence in every frame, we encourage you to apply. This is a fantastic opportunity to leave your mark on diverse and impactful projects within a supportive and forward-thinking production house.
Key Responsibilities
- Collaborate directly with the Director of Photography (DP) and director to achieve the desired lighting aesthetic for each scene and project.
- Design, plan, and execute innovative lighting setups, including the placement, rigging, and cabling of all lighting fixtures.
- Lead and supervise the lighting crew (Best Boy/Girl Electric, Lamp Operators, Genny Operators, Grips) ensuring efficient and safe operations.
- Manage and maintain inventory of all lighting equipment, including various types of lamps, fixtures (LED, HMI, Tungsten), dimmers, gels, and diffusion materials.
- Oversee power distribution and electrical safety on set, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.
- Troubleshoot and resolve any lighting-related technical issues quickly and effectively during production.
- Develop and manage the lighting budget, coordinating equipment rentals and purchases to stay within financial parameters.
- Mentor and train junior lighting crew members, fostering a collaborative and growth-oriented environment.
- Stay current with the latest lighting technologies, techniques, and safety protocols in film and television production.
Required Skills
- Minimum of 4 years of proven professional experience as a Gaffer or Best Boy/Girl Electric.
- Expertise in various lighting techniques (e.g., three-point, Rembrandt, dramatic, naturalistic) and their application to visual storytelling.
- In-depth knowledge of different lighting fixtures, power systems, and control protocols (e.g., DMX).
- Strong understanding of electrical principles, current flow, and safety procedures on a film set.
- Proficiency in reading and interpreting lighting plots, blueprints, and production schedules.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills to effectively manage a crew and collaborate with other departments.
- Ability to work under pressure, solve problems creatively, and adapt to changing production demands.
- Demonstrated experience in safe rigging practices and heavy equipment operation.
Preferred Qualifications
- Degree or diploma in Film Production, Cinematography, or a related field.
- Membership in IATSE Local 873 (International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees) or a similar union.
- Experience with specialized lighting equipment and advanced control systems.
- First Aid and CPR certification.
- Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits.
- Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
- Access to cutting-edge lighting technology and equipment.
- A dynamic and collaborative work environment.
- Opportunity to work on diverse and impactful projects across various media.
- Paid time off and statutory holidays.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to click on the application link below to submit their resume and a portfolio or reel demonstrating their work. Please highlight your experience as a Gaffer and any notable projects you’ve contributed to. We look forward to reviewing your application and exploring how your talents can illuminate our next production.