Job Description

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)