Photo Production Equipment Lead

Overview

We are looking for a proactive, detail-oriented Photo Production Equipment Lead to join our fast-paced studio operations team. Supporting our client’s LA Photo and Film Studio, 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. You will ensure sets are properly built, lit, and metered for early morning call times while building, scheduling, and empowering a broader roster of studio crew.

Key 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.

Qualifications & 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).

Desired Skills & Competencies

• 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.

Aquent connects the best talent in marketing, creative, and design with the world’s biggest brands.

Our eligible talent get access to amazing benefits like subsidized health, vision, and dental plans, paid sick leave, and retirement plans with a match. We also offer free online training through Aquent Gymnasium. More information on our awesome benefits!

Aquent is an equal-opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics. We’re about creating an inclusive environment-one where different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are valued, and everyone can contribute, grow their careers, and thrive