Break into Hollywood with the Ultimate Guide for Service Providers

The sheer amount of video content produced for big screens and streaming platforms is overwhelming. The number of motion pictures and TV shows in the works continues to grow, as does the entertainment industry itself in the U.S. According to the Motion Picture Association’s report, the industry pays over $33 billion per year to more than 240,000 businesses in cities and small towns across the country and employed more than 2.7 million people nationwide. Impressing, isn’t it?

This rapid growth translates to increased demand for common service providers who’d ensure there’s running water on the set and that the lights won’t falter due to a short circuit. Simply put, the industry needs plumbers, electricians, roofers, movers, and almost every other common service provider to keep things running smoothly and without a hitch.

More Films & TV = More Infrastructure Needs

Another report, this time from the California Film Commission, reveals that film and TV production activity continues to skyrocket, particularly in Hollywood. Just think about it – over 500 TV shows hit the silver screens every year. Even the number of big-budget Hollywood blockbusters released in the past years has grown substantially, showcasing that the demand for quality entertainment is at its all-time peak.

As the industry continues to expand, so does the infrastructure that supports its daily operations. Regarding the infrastructure, there’s enough installation, maintenance, and repair work for a platoon of service providers on every single set. Here’s a glance at some of the things that need to be handled by the pros:

• Constructing the set (and maintaining its operational efficiency). Only qualified and highly skilled tradespeople have what it takes to build and sustain the set in pristine condition. 
• Preparing the location (or the studio, depending on the film’s requirements). The scenery we see on the big screen is the result of carefully calculated shots, and it requires constant upkeep—from plumbing repairs to electrical installations.
• Installing temporary setups (and then altering them on demand). Even a temporary setup requires plenty of utility work, including lighting, plumbing, moving, etc., keeping common service providers busy.

Opportunities exist, and even smaller-budget productions hire maintenance crews for infrastructure needs. 

Hollywood Gigs for Service Pros

Job listing platforms such as Production HUB and Mandy paint a very accurate picture of the market’s needs these days. If you study both part-time gigs and full-time contract opportunities posted on these platforms, it’s easier to understand which service providers are in greater demand in Hollywood right now:

1. Electricians. Around 35% of all set preparation and studio maintenance postings are hiring electrical workers. No surprise there – a movie set with no electricity defeats its purpose.
2. Movers. 30% of all postings, and it’s no wonder that transporting equipment and set materials from one place to another is all too common in Hollywood.
3. Plumbers. Nearly 20% of Hollywood’s entertainment industry postings focus on temporary installations or emergency plumbing repairs. Figures – a clogged toilet won’t do the production any good.

But wait, there’s more! The Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC)  conducted its own survey in 2023 involving 200 studio heads and production managers. The results were as follows:

• 80% of respondents hired electrical workers for at least one project in the past year.
• 70% of respondents hired moving specialists to transport equipment and set materials.
• 60% hired plumbers to handle temporary installations and emergency repairs.

Hollywood productions, therefore, are always in need of qualified service providers. Regardless of the project’s scale, any movie or TV series features at least a few plumbers and electricians roaming around the set on a regular basis.

Tips to Make Your Big Break into Hollywood

Sure, you could be a stellar electrician with an impeccable track record, but here’s the thing – most Hollywood productions come with specific and, at times, unique demands. So, as a service provider, you should have industry-specific skills catering to these demands. Let’s break it down a bit, shall we:

• For electricians, it’s essential to have an understanding of set lighting setup, temporary power installations, and studio maintenance. Other tasks aside, these are the essentials that no production set can do without.
• For movers, experience handling sensitive equipment and fragile materials used in production is vital. Some of that gear costs a small fortune, so handling it gently is the only real requirement.
• For plumbers, it’s important to be familiar with temporary installations and higher-end systems often found in studios. These may require a slightly different approach, so come prepared. 

The same goes for other common service providers—each must have a specific set of skills that Hollywood studios require in their daily operations. Keep that in mind and do your research before applying for a Hollywood project. 

Networking FTW

In Hollywood, it’s not just about what you can do – it’s also about whom you know. A firm handshake here and there can get you places. Establishing professional relationships could help you immensely – someone could spread the good word about your services and help you quickly get the job you want. Below are some examples of the type of networking that will get you places in Hollywood:

• Industry Events. Film festivals, trade shows, and networking events in the entertainment industry are nothing new, and there’s no shortage of them. Attend as many as you can to interact with the right people and leave a business card or two, just in case.
• Professional Associations. Local film commissions and associations like IATSE are a good start. There, you’ll meet all the right people, learn more about the industry’s inner workings, and, who knows, even land a gig or two while you’re at it.
• Social Media. The power of social media platforms mustn’t be underestimated! Grow your following on LinkedIn, connect with industry experts, and keep your hand on the pulse of the entertainment industry at the same time. 

Being part of the entertainment community is a great way to showcase your expertise, find new acquaintances, and secure more jobs in Hollywood. The people are our wealth, so don’t neglect to use this to your advantage. 

Get Good

If you want to make your way into Hollywood a bit smoother, consider adding more credibility to your portfolio. Additional certifications will demonstrate to your employers that you are 100% committed to delivering exceptional results and are well-versed in the tasks that are about to come. Some of the valuable certification examples include:

• Electricians. Obtaining a Lighting Certification (LC) will showcase your expertise in impeccable lighting design. This is a must for any Hollywood production.
• Movers. Get certified in handling delicate items. It will quickly set you apart since most movers don’t undergo this course from the get-go. 
• Plumbers. Green plumbing solutions are the bomb right now! Get certified in sustainable plumbing practices to show that you also care for the environment.

No matter how good you may be at your craft, getting additional certifications to back you up will never hurt. It’s a great way to stand out from the crowd of competition and secure a job in Hollywood. 

Showcase Your Services Like a Pro

The power of marketing is undoubtful, so don’t neglect it. Creating a professional-looking website with customer testimonials and comprehensive case studies will help you build a solid reputation. Invest in SEO and online advertising to position yourself among the most sought-after industry experts. 

Consider classic marketing approaches as well. Distribute printed materials like business cards and brochures at industry events to make yourself noticed. 

Make a Lasting Impression

There are things far more precious than money in Hollywood. We’re talking about reputation. It can make or break an actor or a producer, so it can just as easily make you Hollywood’s next go-to service provider. Keep that in mind – your work is, in a sense, your business card – the better you do it, the more people will return to you for help in the future.=

Exceptional customer service is the sum of a few simple things. Be reliable and punctual, always arrive on time, and respect every deadline. Communicate clearly and keep clients informed about project progress and any arising issues. Focus on quality, ensure your work meets the highest industry standards, and build a rock-solid reputation. 

Success Is Right Around the Corner

Getting jobs in Hollywood as a service provider is as real as it gets. Film and TV productions will always need skillful plumbers, electricians, movers, roofers, etc. They are the backbone of the entire setup, so their services are highly valued and very much in demand.

Following the tips above increases your chances of getting noticed and becoming a part of the vibrant Hollywood community. Who knows, perhaps your next big electrical project will take place on the set of the next big Hollywood blockbuster!