Lead Video Assistant

The Lead Video Assistant is the operational engine and technical backbone of the in-house video production team. Serving as an on-set hybrid of a 1st AC, Key Grip, and Gaffer, this role maintains production momentum by anticipating videographers' needs, managing camera builds, and troubleshooting equipment on the fly. They oversee physical production logistics, including external rentals, cross-functional gear reservations for photo and video, and post-shoot server backups. Designed as a growth track, this position provides direct mentorship from senior creatives to prepare a highly organized, brand-focused candidate for advancement into a full Videographer role.

This is an on-site position based out of our Photo Studio located in Chicago, IL. 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

What You'll Bring To The Table...

• 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
• Growth Mindset: A clear, articulated desire to learn, be mentored, and eventually grow into a full Videographer role within the organization

We'd love to hear from you if you have...

• Must provide a link to a portfolio (including password) on resume or Reel demonstrating involvement in the creation of high-quality video content
• 2+ years of professional experience in video production, specifically in 1st AC, Key Grip, Gaffer, or general assisting roles
• Working experience with Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, and Google suite