Key Grip / Gaffer & Film Production Assistant

About the Role

We’re hiring a Key Grip / Gaffer & Film Production Assistant to join our Production team in Abu Dhabi. You’ll work on commercial, documentary, and government video shoots — helping manage gear, lighting, and set logistics from prep to wrap.

This hands-on role is ideal for someone who understands professional set etiquette, takes initiative, and works well under pressure.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and break down lighting rigs, grip gear, and camera equipment
• Assist Director of Photography, Gaffer, and Set Lead with lighting and movement setups
• Handle cables, rigging, reflectors, stands, and safety equipment
• Support during shoots on location and in studio environments
• Assist with gear organization, maintenance, and post-shoot inventory
• Help move equipment between vehicles and shooting areas
• Ensure safety, cleanliness, and professionalism on set
• Be responsive and flexible to last-minute changes during live filming

Required Qualifications & Experience

• 2–4 years of hands-on experience on commercial, corporate, or event video sets
• Experience in grip work, including mounting and rigging cameras for various scenes
• Familiarity with grip tools and the ability to fabricate on-set solutions to achieve desired setups
• Experience working closely with DOPs, camera operators, and directors in high-pressure environments
• Familiarity with lighting setups (Aputure, Arri, Astera, etc.) and associated fixing tools
• Strong understanding of set etiquette, crew roles, and production workflows
• Ability to safely lift, carry, and transport heavy gear and equipment
• Fluent in English; Arabic is a plus
• A fast, proactive problem-solver and strong team player
• Valid UAE driver’s license is a must

Bonus Skills (Nice to Have)

• Focus pulling or 1st AC (Assistant Camera) experience
• Working knowledge of camera systems such as Blackmagic, RED, Canon C-line, etc.
• Experience supporting live events or multi-camera setups
• Formal training in film, lighting, or production technology
• Experience on government or culturally sensitive projects
• Comfortable with early call times, night shoots, long hours, and outdoor filming conditions

Why Join ZIA

• Work on meaningful, high-impact national projects
• Competitive salary and performance-based growth opportunities
• Exposure to cross-collaborative work across disciplines, clients, and cultures
• A diverse, dynamic, multicultural team with a shared standard of excellence
• A creative culture that celebrates innovation, authenticity, bold thinking, cultural relevance, and results

How to Apply 1

Email your CV and a brief cover letter to ZIA Agency Director - charlotte@zianetwork.com with the subject line:

Application – Key Grip _ Gaffer _ Production Assistant

In your message, please include your answers to the follow:

Screening Questions

• Are you currently based in Abu Dhabi or willing to relocate?
• Do you have 2+ years of film or video set experience?
• Are you familiar with standard grip and lighting gear?
• Are you fluent in Arabic (preferred, not required)?
• Do you hold a valid UAE driver’s license?
• What is your current notice period and earliest availability?
• What are your salary expectations for this role?

Note: Only complete applications that include both a CV and a tailored cover letter will be reviewed.

How to Apply 2

We’re prioritizing applications through our official careers page.

Serious applicants only:

Visit zianetwork [dot] com [slash] careers to submit your CV, tailored cover letter, and answer all screening questions.

Only complete applications will be considered.

☐ I understand that only applications submitted with a CV, a tailored cover letter, and responses to all screening questions will be reviewed.

☐ I acknowledge that due to the volume of applications, only candidates selected for the next stage will be contacted.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: From AED6,000.00 per month

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Dubai: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Application Question(s):

• Are you familiar with standard grip and lighting gear?
• What is your current notice period and earliest availability?
• What are your salary expectations for this role?

Education:

• Bachelor's (Preferred)

Experience:

• Key Grip / Gaffer/ First AC: 3 years (Required)
• Film or Video Set: 3 years (Required)

Language:

• Fluent English (Required)
• Arabic (preferred) (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• UAE driver’s license? (Required)