Chargehand Riggers are responsible for managing a team, or gang, of Riggers on specific rigging projects during film productions.  Depending on the size of the film, they report either to the Supervising Rigger or to the HoD Rigger.  Chargehand Riggers must ensure that all their work is carried out according to the brief, that it is completed on deadline, and that it adheres to strict Health and Safety standards. The role requires rigging experience combined with leadership skills.

Responsibilities
Chargehand Riggers are responsible for managing the construction of specific rigging projects during film shoots.  Once the film's rigging requirements have been calculated, Chargehand Riggers are briefed by either the HOD Rigger or the Supervising Rigger about the construction of one of the rigs required for the film.  Chargehands are responsible for managing a crew, or gang, of Riggers and for ensuring that rigs are constructed according to the brief, and to deadlines.

The work is varied: Chargehands and their team are responsible for assembling and installing rigging gear such as scaffolding, ropes, cables, pulleys, winches, lifting equipment and specialised access equipment.  They lift, lower, move or position machinery and structures for set and scenery.  They may also rig lighting and camera equipment, including erecting camera and crane rostrums, as directed by the Director of Photography.  Other duties can include suspending and supporting set pieces, lamps, special effects equipment and props.  Chargehand Riggers are also responsible ensuring that all the work carried out on their projects meets the requirements of the relevant Health and Safety legislation and procedures.

Skills
Chargehand Riggers need good management skills, and they must be comfortable managing teams of Riggers.  They need a wide knowledge of all aspects of rigging.  They should be able to work effectively, both independently and as part of a team.  They should have excellent Health and Safety knowledge and awareness, and be capable of conducting risk assessments on set and on location.  The role is physically demanding, and they must be comfortable working at heights.

Qualifications/Experience
Chargehand Riggers need some accredited qualifications, such as Rigging/ Scaffolding qualifications in S.I.T.A.C., C.I.T.B., E.C.I.T.B., or NVQ/SVQs at level 2 or 3.  Chargehand Riggers should also have experience of working as Riggers in the film industry.  Extensive knowledge of the Health and Safety legislation and procedures relating to rigging is essential.  As the role involves travel, a full EU driving licence is required.

Individual course accreditation in certain subject areas is currently being piloted. As part of Skillset's and the UK Film Council's Film Skills Strategy, A Bigger Future, a network of Screen Academies and a Film Business Academy have been approved as centres of excellence in education and training for film.

Where to go for more information
Skillset is the Sector Skills Council for the Audio Visual Industries. The first sources of information for all jobs in the industry are the National Occupational Standards. Browse Skillset's website for links to our network of training partners, information about training and access to the comprehensive Skillset/BFI course database. Finally, Skillset Careers is UK's only specialist media careers advice service; for detailed media careers information and advice, visit www.skillset.org/careers.