The spark rigs and runs the lights.

The job

The core grade in lighting. You rig, cable, focus and operate lamps to the gaffer's plan, run power distribution safely and look after the kit.

On the floor you move and adjust lamps for each shot and stand by on takes. You may set up power for other departments. Every spark works to electrical safety standards, and you're expected to know them.

A typical day

• At the truck early: unload, run power from the genny or mains.
• Watch blocking while the gaffer briefs the crew.
• During lighting, place, cable and focus lamps, add flags and diffusion, check the load.
• Stand by on takes to dim or switch.
• Between setups, move and relight.
• At wrap, de-rig, coil cable, load the truck.

Watch the gaffer and the DoP, not just your lamp. When the gaffer asks for something, it should already be on its way.

Skills

• Electrical knowledge and safe working practice.
• Handling heavy lamps and cable safely, including at height.
• Knowing the fixtures and their accessories.
• Teamwork and quick responses to the gaffer.
• Stamina for long days.

Who you report to

You report to the best boy and the gaffer. Trainees may work with you.

How people get in

Sparks often start as trainees with an electrical qualification, or come from theatre, live events or rental houses. In England the Screen Lighting Technician apprenticeship option is a formal route. ScreenSkills publishes a lighting technician skills checklist.

Next step up

Senior spark or chargehand, then best boy. Some sparks specialise as desk operators or rigging electricians.

Find out more

• ScreenSkills: lighting technician skills
• ScreenSkills: lighting trainee
• Pay: Bectu lighting technicians card