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Carpenter

Builds scenic sets and structural set pieces for UK film/TV stages and locations.

Duties

• Read the call sheet and sides before arriving
• Maintain radio/set etiquette and H&S
• Hand over notes/kit status at wrap
• Set carpentry
• Safe builds
• Strike

Reports to

Chargehand Carpenter / Construction Manager

Works with

Chargehand, Scenic, Plasterers, Stagehands, Art Directors

Career path

Trainee → Carpenter → Chargehand → HOD Construction

Day to day

Cut and build from drawings; erect on stage; alter for camera; work safely with power tools; strike.

Call times

Workshop/stage builds often early day shifts; night builds around shooting stages happen. Standby construction matches unit when covering; strike days run long.

What to wear

Workshop PPE: boots, gloves, eye/ear protection; hard hat as required.

Tools & kit

Personal hand tools often; power tools per workshop rules.

Tips

Confirm title, agreement, budget band, prep/wrap and kit fee on the deal memo before accepting. We never invent Bectu figures — check bectu.org.uk ratecards / your branch.

Software

• SketchUp / drawing PDFs
• Cut-list spreadsheets
• PDF drawings / Bluebeam
• Excel labour & materials schedules
• Call sheets when on standby
• ChatGPT for cut-list drafts (Chargehand/CM verify)

Bectu rate cards for this role are in the app.

Related roles

Scenic Painter

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