Photo Production Equipment Lead [AQ-13833]

About the Role

We are seeking a proactive, detail-oriented Photo Production Equipment Lead to join our fast-paced studio operations team. You will serve as a key operational anchor—managing equipment inventory, directing gear changeovers, and leading a shift of 3 to 4 team members across 5+ active sets and an 8-bay editorial floor. We seek a collaborative leader who excels in high-volume production, anticipates team needs, and thrives on the floor.

Responsibilities

• Equipment & Inventory Management
  • Proactively track, manage, and audit both in-house and sub-rented gear using Blue Circle / TrakIt inventory software.
  • Input detailed equipment lists for e-commerce, editorial, and motion shoots.
  • Quality-check, troubleshoot, and log malfunctioning gear in real time; oversee repair logistics when necessary.
  • Maintain high standards for studio cleanliness, gear organization, and digital cart management (digi-carts, monitors, cabling, camera support).
• Set Operations & Technical Execution
  • Direct the physical flow of an 8-bay editorial floor, ensuring bays are completely built, lit, and accurately metered prior to the start of shooting.
  • Read, replicate, and measure detailed lighting diagrams down to exact specifications to ensure consistency across multiple identical sets.
  • Troubleshoot camera, lighting, grip, and digital equipment issues in real time to keep production moving smoothly without downtime.
  • Assist on the ground with gear setups, rapid bay switch-overs, and lighting changes between shooting styles.
• Leadership & Crew Scheduling
  • Lead a daily shift of 3–4 crew members while managing and scheduling a broader roster of ~30 freelancers and staff (Grips, Gaffers, Stagehands, Camera Operators, and Setup Staff).
  • Assess crew skill sets to schedule the right people in the right roles for incoming production needs.
  • Train, mentor, and guide peers on updated studio workflows, safety procedures, and gear processes.
  • Participate in production planning meetings to align gear and staffing with future production calendars.

Requirements

• Experience: 5+ years of direct experience in a film/photo production environment, with 4+ years in studio equipment management or lead set roles.
• Technical Grip & Lighting: Deep, hands-on knowledge of grip, rigging, and lighting gear, with safety as an absolute priority. Proven experience measuring sets and reading/executing precise lighting diagrams.
• Digital & Camera Systems: Solid foundation in digital equipment and motion gear (e.g., RED cameras such as the Komodo X, cinema lenses, monitors, digi-carts, cable management).
• Software Proficiency: Experience with equipment tracking software (Blue Circle or TrakIt preferred). Basic working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, Airtable, and Figma is a plus.
• Physical Expectations: This role requires being on your feet and active throughout the studio floor for the majority of the day (no heavy lifting required, but active movement is essential).

Skills

• Proactive Communicator & Planner: Excellent listening and communication skills; able to anticipate the next step without waiting for direction.
• Calm Under Pressure: Ability to navigate a high-volume, fast-paced production environment with composure and a problem-solving mindset.
• Adaptable & Trainable: Open to learning and mastering client's processes and tools quickly.
• Eye for Detail: High standards for gear maintenance, set precision, cleanliness, and workflow efficiency.

Benefits

• Subsidized health, vision, and dental plans.
• Paid sick leave.
• Retirement plans with a company match.
• Free online training through Aquent Gymnasium.