outside the city of Richmond, knocking on a lot of doors and asking a lot
of people I had never met before if I could come in their house and take
photographs. I had to find Clarissa Starling's apartment, the cottage, and
a chemistry laboratory."
Golasheskey followed up with the film Hearts in Atlantis, and is
currently at work in the transportation department of the series
pilot DC.
Job Overview
The generator operator ensures that the generator is functioning at
the proper cycle and voltage to keep the lights on the set lit, handles
basic maintenance of the diesel engine that powers the generator, and
drives the vehicle that carries it. (Note: an electrician may sometimes
be called upon to run the generator.) Typically, a generator is used for
location shooting where there are insufficient quantities or no electricity
available.
Special Skills
Genny operators must be mechanically inclined, possess the ability to
handle minor repairs of diesel engines, be a member of the Teamster's
union, and have the skill to maneuver large tractor-trailers through con-
gested areas. "Driving a tractor-trailer in cities is not the easiest thing to
do, especially the ones we use, with a generator mounted on it," says
genny operator Bobby Jones. "They look like a normal truck, but the
tractor is usually longer than a normal truck, extended out to have
enough room to carry all the equipment we need."
Advice for Someone Seeking This Job
Working for a rental house that provides vehicles and equipment for
productions is one way to land a job driving for a film company. The
experience also affords you an opportunity to learn about lighting equip-
ment and other gear the company provides. If you already have a com-
mercial driver's license and experience driving trucks, contact
transportation captains and let them know you are available.
JOB TITLE: GENERATOR OPERATOR,
GENNY OPERATOR
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