Gaffer for Vancouver Doc (Mid-Level)

BlockReel; Vancouver; On-site; CAD 18,000 - 37,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Craft services

Lunch provided

Job summary

BlockReel in Vancouver, BC, is seeking a skilled Gaffer for an indie documentary shoot in early October 2026. Expect 8–10 days with 10-hour days, interior and exterior locations, and a naturalistic lighting approach.

You will collaborate with the DP, design lighting, and manage grip and electric equipment, ensuring safety and efficiency on set. A strong reel is essential; own basic G&E kit preferred, otherwise knowledge of local rental houses.

Qualifications

• 2–3 years of experience on documentary or indie film sets.
• Strong reel/portfolio showcasing lighting work.
• Own basic G&E kit or knowledge of local rental houses.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the DP on lighting design and aesthetics.
• Execute lighting setups efficiently on interior/exterior locations.
• Manage grip and electric equipment and safety on set.

Skills

Gaffer

Lighting design

On-set safety

Power distribution

Tools

LEDs

HMI

Tungsten

G&E kit

Job description

Filming in Vancouver, BC, with anticipated shoot dates in early October 2026 for approximately 8-10 days, this independent documentary is seeking a skilled Gaffer. We're telling a compelling, character-driven story with a naturalistic tone, focusing on local artisans. The project aims for an intimate, observational style, making the lighting subtle yet impactful. We're shooting in a mix of interior and exterior practical locations. Key responsibilities include collaborating with the DP on lighting design, executing lighting setups efficiently, managing grip and electric equipment, and ensuring safety on set. We're looking for someone with at least 2-3 years of experience on documentary or indie film sets. You should be familiar with a variety of lighting instruments (LEDs, HMI, tungsten) and have a good understanding of power distribution and safety protocols. Please have your own basic G&E kit if possible, or knowledge of local rental houses. A strong reel or portfolio showcasing your lighting work is essential. This is a mid-level position paid at $100-200/day, depending on experience and gear contribution. We anticipate 10-hour shoot days. Craft services and lunch will be provided on set. We're a small, collaborative team excited to bring this unique story to life.

Budget Range

$100-200/day