Special Effects Assistant
The Special Effects Assistant works under close supervision to a professional Special Effects Supervisor. It is important that the Supervisor and Assistant hold relevant industry qualifications to operate dangerous equipment such as pyrotechnics. They are responsible for planning, constructing and in many cases executing a wide range of effects, such as rain, snow, fire, explosions, gunfire, etc. All effects must be carried out in accordance with technical specifications and health and safety regulations.
It is essential to have knowledge and experience of some of the key skills and materials used in effects delivery (ie pyrotechnics, physical effects, miniature modelling, digital effects, 3D animation, sculpture, mould making, prosthetics, animatronics, robotics, engineering, welding and electronics). The Special Effects Assistant must have industry qualifications to operate special effects like pyrotechnics but with not necessarily any previous film/television experience. There are specific health and safety issues relating to special effects, and anyone working in this field will have to be proficient in carrying out risk assessments and maintaining standards.
Throughout filming the Special Effects Assistant will keep the Supervisor and Senior Technician informed regarding progress and problems and where possible will take any necessary action to solve problems safely, quickly and efficiently. They are responsible for carrying out on-site maintenance, ensuring all machinery, equipment and effects are kept in good working order, and can be operated safely. The Special Effects Supervisor, Assistant or Technician is required to maintain an accurate logbook recording all work undertaken and techniques used.
Role Profile
- Lateral thinking and the ability to use initiative to solve problems in a safe and controlled way
- Willingness to accept direction and to follow instruction accurately
- Ability to work effectively unsupervised and to take responsibility under pressure
- Exceptional practical skills and confident use of effects equipment, materials and craft tools
- Enthusiasm to undertake a wide variety of tasks either practical or physical
- Strong aesthetic awareness and attention to detail
- Good communication and organisational skills
- Experience in the safe use of pyrotechnics is desirable
- Ability to work effectively unsupervised, to follow instruction accurately and to take responsibility under pressure
- Aesthetic awareness and attention to detail.
The Special Effects Assistant needs knowledge of
- Practical craft skills and confident use of specialist equipment, materials and craft tools
- Communication and organisational skills
- Thorough knowledge of health and safety regulations is paramount
Career Path
There is no established career route specific to the film and television industry for Special Effects. Most have gained extensive experience in the following types of roles:
- Mechanic with an eye for detail
- Model making enthusiast
- Engineer
- Machine Technician
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