Senior Gaffer, Doc Feature - Atlanta

BlockReel; Atlanta (GA); On-site; USD 91,000 - 137,000; Full time

Job summary

BlockReel in Atlanta is seeking a senior Gaffer to lead our lighting department on an upcoming feature documentary. The role requires 5+ years of on-set lighting experience for documentary or narrative features, and the ability to design lighting setups that support the DP's creative vision.

You should bring a own basic kit (meters, tools) though major lighting packages will be provided; shooting is 3-4 weeks across multiple locations, late Oct to early Nov 2026, with 10-12 hour days.

Qualifications

• 5+ years as a Gaffer on documentary or narrative features.
• Strong knowledge of lighting techniques, electrical safety and grip equipment.
• Provide reel or portfolio highlighting relevant work.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement lighting setups to support the Director of Photography's creative vision.
• Manage lighting equipment.
• Oversee a small lighting crew.
• Work closely with the DP to ensure consistent quality across locations.

Skills

Senior Gaffer

Lighting techniques

Electrical safety

Grip equipment

Tools

Meters

Lighting gear

Job description

Independent production seeking a senior Gaffer to join our small, dedicated team for an upcoming feature documentary. This project delves into the untold stories of Atlanta's jazz scene from the 1970s, blending intimate interviews with evocative archival footage and carefully crafted recreations. We're aiming for a cinematic, naturalistic look that honors the era while feeling contemporary. We need someone who can lead our lighting department to achieve this vision. Key responsibilities include designing and implementing lighting setups that support the Director of Photography's creative vision, managing lighting equipment, and overseeing a small lighting crew. You'll be working closely with the DP to ensure consistent quality across diverse locations. Required experience: 5+ years as a Gaffer on documentary or narrative features. Strong knowledge of various lighting techniques, electrical safety, and grip equipment is essential. Please provide a link to your reel or portfolio highlighting relevant work. We are looking for someone with their own basic kit (meters, tools, etc.), but all major lighting packages will be provided. Shoot dates are anticipated to be approximately 3-4 weeks, primarily during late October or early November 2026, with some prep days beforehand. Days will generally be 10-12 hours. Compensation is $2000-3000/week, depending on experience.

Budget Range

$2000-3000/week