Head cinema builder
The chief builder is responsible for setting up and ensuring the feasibility of the set.
He orders the materials, hires the construction team and oversees the preparation of the sets right through to their use.
Here’s what you need to know about his tasks, training and skills, among other information.
Role and missions
In the cinema, the head builder plays an essential role in the film through the sets that he sets up from A to Z. Hired by the head set designer, who provides him with sketches, he refines the estimates for the sets and goes on location to check that they are feasible.
He orders the materials, assembles his construction team by organising the schedules and supervises the preparation of all the set construction in the workshop. He is present when the sets are delivered to the site, and supervises the final construction on the set.
He must scrupulously respect the set designer’s plans, the production budget and safety regulations. Indispensable, he must not leave the set, making last-minute adjustments if necessary.
At the end of the shoot, the cinematographer supervises the dismantling and destruction of the sets.
Diplomas and training
Generally speaking, a basic vocational training qualification (CAP/Bac pro) is highly regarded, particularly in the building or wood trades, with an additional BTS in the same sector. There are builder training courses specifically geared towards the world of entertainment, but very often the network, references and excellent knowledge of construction are enough to become a head builder in the cinema.
Skills and qualities required
The head builder is a building professional who is able to talk to everyone involved (painters, plumbers, joiners, etc.). During assembly, his recommendations are followed to the letter, and he has no room for error. The materials used, dimensions, volumes, colours, type of cladding, nothing can escape his attention.
To be in demand by film producers, he must have a solid knowledge of the plastic arts, interior architecture and decoration.
With fairly irregular working hours, often staggered shifts and more or less long journeys, cinema construction managers need to be physically fit and able to work in a hurry.
Clear and concise, they have a supervisory role and know how to communicate and ensure that their decisions are respected, while maintaining a good atmosphere within their team, which may be small (3 people) or large (150 people).
Careers and career opportunities
Generally speaking, the job of cinema construction manager is the culmination of a professional life that began in the building trade, followed by a spell as a member of a cinema construction team.
With the experience gained on film sets and possibly additional training, the head builder may end up taking on the role of set designer.
Salary expectations
Head builders are paid according to the time they work. In general, they earn between 260 and 290 euros gross per day and between 1250 and 1383 euros gross per week.
