Gaffer Job Description

A gaffer is the head of the electrical department for a film, television or theatre production. They are responsible for the lighting design and implementation of a production.

Typical Job Duties & Responsibilities

• Supervise the work of the electrical and lighting crews

• Work with lighting designers and directors to develop lighting plans and goals

• Create moods with lighting

• Ensure all lighting equipment and accessories are in safe working order

• Work with stage and set carpenters to install wiring

• Use a variety of tools or equipment, such as power construction equipment, measuring devices, power tools, and testing equipment, such as oscilloscopes, ammeters, or test lamps

Scholarships for Becoming a Gaffer

The Applicable Majors section below shows fields of study relevant to a career as a Gaffer. You can search for scholarships matched to those fields of study on our All Scholarships by Major page.

Success Tip: Be sure to apply for any scholarships that you even barely qualify for, as there are millions of dollars of scholarships that go unused every year due to a lack of applicants!