Job Overview
Generally an entry-level position in the sound department (unless
there is an apprentice or production assistant working with the crew), the
cable man sets up the sound equipment, runs the cable from the micro-
phone to the sound recording equipment, and assists in placing radio
mikes on actors when needed. Experienced cablers also operate a second
boom when needed or fill in for the boom operator if he needs to leave
the set. Cablers assist with maintaining the sound equipment, and may
be assigned to handle departmental paperwork.
Special Skills
In addition to having an understanding of the filmmaking process and
knowledge of sound equipment, a cable person must be alert and atten-
tive without being intrusive. They should take every opportunity to
develop boom operator skills so they can handle a second boom or fill in
for the operator when needed.
Advice for Someone Seeking This Job
Working for a sound equipment rental house is a good way to learn
about the gear and meet sound mixers and their crew. Once you have
some basic understanding of the job, contact working sound mixers and
offer to work for free as an apprentice to gain some on set experience and
learn more about the job.
Professional Profile: Bill Shotland, Boom Operator and Cable Person
After a year of studying sociology at Palomar College, Bill Shotland's
goal was simply to find some type of work that generated enough cash to
allow him to ski. Just as disco was about to become a national obsession,
he came up with the idea to start a company that would supply live
sound reinforcement, lighting, and DJs to nightclubs in the Southern
California area. He wrote up a business plan and asked his father to
co-sign a bank loan for him to acquire the equipment. Within three
months, he had repaid the loan and established a successful business.
A few years later, Shotland was ready for a new challenge. A child-
hood friend and his father, who owned a transportation company that
supplied production companies, suggested that Shotland parlay his
JOB TITLE: CABLE MAN,
CABLER, SOUND UTILITY
User Comments Add a comment…