Lead, Video Assistant

Overview

The Lead Assistant, Video serves as the operational engine and proactive technical backbone of the CBH in-house video production team. Acting as a dynamic, on-set hybrid of a 1st AC, Key Grip, and Gaffer, this role ensures continuous production momentum by intuitively anticipating the technical needs of the videographers, managing camera builds, and troubleshooting equipment on the fly. Beyond active on-set execution, this individual takes total ownership of physical production logistics, including external rental relationships, cross-functional gear reservations for both photo and video departments, and post-shoot footage backups to the in-house server.

Designed as a dedicated growth track, this position provides direct mentorship from senior creatives for a highly organized, brand-focused candidate eager to master their technical craft and eventually advance into a full Videographer role. A day in the life as a Lead Video Assistant...

• Hybrid On-Set Support:
  Act as the vital backbone of a small, agile team by seamlessly jumping between camera assistance, grip work, and lighting execution.
• Proactive Anticipation:
  Stay deeply engaged in the goals of each shoot to anticipate the videographer's next move.
• Set Readiness:
  Ensure continuous production momentum by always having fresh batteries ready, swiftly swinging in new lenses, and prepping lighting adjustments before they are explicitly requested.
• Rigging & Troubleshooting:
  Rig camera setups and lighting equipment to achieve dynamic shots, acting as a calm, creative problem-solver whenever technical issues arise on set.
• Set Presence & Consistency:
  Bring a consistently present, engaged, and excited energy to every single shoot, maintaining a positive attitude even in high-pressure environments.
• Brand Stewardship:
  Become intimately familiar with the visual language of the Crate & Barrel brand to make proactive on-set suggestions and anticipate specific stylistic needs.
• Pre-Production Leadership:
  Take total ownership of location shoot preparation, actively looking ahead to the production calendar to plan equipment needs.
• Logistics & Rental Management:
  Lead the packing process, coordinate cross-functionally to ensure on-time gear arrival, and build strong relationships with external gear rental houses.
• Cross-Functional Inventory Ownership:
  Manage and process all in-house lighting and gear reservations for both the video and photo teams, acting as the ultimate gatekeeper for shared production assets.
• Workflow Assistance:
  Support the post-shoot workflow by backing up all captured footage onto the in-house server to ensure secure data management.

• Technical Gear Expertise:
  Demonstrated hands-on familiarity with Aputure LED lighting, Ronin gimbals, Tilta accessories, SmallHD monitors, and Teradek transmitting systems.
• Camera Proficiency:
  Working knowledge of maintaining and operating professional camera and audio equipment, with a specific focus on Sony cinema cameras.
• Creative Problem Solving:
  An exceptional ability to troubleshoot technical and logistical issues calmly and efficiently on set, keeping productions moving forward without friction.
• Communication
  
  Skills:
  
  Highly organized with a track record of clear, proactive communication across digital channels, specifically utilizing Slack and email to keep cross-functional teams aligned.
• Software Familiarity:
  Working experience with Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, and the Google Suite is required.
• Growth Mindset: A clear, articulated desire to learn, be mentored, and eventually grow into a full Videographer role within the organization.

• 1-3 years of professional experience in video production, specifically in 1st AC, Key Grip, Gaffer, or general assisting roles.
• Portfolio or Reel demonstrating involvement in the creation of high-quality video content.