Craft Service
Craft Service (also known as "Crafty") is an essential department on film and TV productions that provides snacks, beverages, and light refreshments to the cast and crew throughout the filming day. This is different from catering, which handles main meals. Craft Service professionals set up and maintain food and drink stations, ensure cleanliness, manage food safety, and keep the energy levels of the production team high with constant access to refreshments. This role is crucial for maintaining crew morale and productivity during long shooting days.
Examples in Resumes
Managed Craft Service for 200+ person crew on major network television series
Led Craft Services department for multiple independent film productions
Coordinated Crafty operations while maintaining strict dietary restrictions and food safety standards
Typical job title: "Craft Service Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Craft Service Managers
Industry Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle budgeting and inventory management for a large production?
Expected Answer: Should discuss experience with cost control, bulk purchasing, inventory tracking systems, and maintaining supplies for large crews while staying within budget constraints.
Q: How do you manage multiple dietary restrictions and food allergies on set?
Expected Answer: Should explain systems for labeling foods, maintaining separate preparation areas, tracking crew dietary needs, and ensuring safe options for all dietary requirements.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What considerations do you take into account when setting up craft service stations on location?
Expected Answer: Should discuss weather protection, power access, food safety in various environments, and strategic placement for crew accessibility.
Q: How do you handle last-minute schedule changes or emergencies?
Expected Answer: Should describe experience with backup plans, emergency suppliers, quick problem-solving, and maintaining service during unexpected situations.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic food safety guidelines you follow on set?
Expected Answer: Should know basic food handling certification requirements, temperature control, sanitization procedures, and cross-contamination prevention.
Q: How do you organize a basic craft service setup?
Expected Answer: Should explain essential equipment needs, basic stock items, setup timing, and maintaining cleanliness throughout the day.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic food safety certification
- Simple station setup and maintenance
- Basic inventory management
- Following dietary restriction guidelines
Mid (2-5 years)
- Budget management
- Special dietary accommodations
- Location shooting experience
- Team supervision
Senior (5+ years)
- Large production management
- Department budgeting
- Staff training and supervision
- Complex dietary program management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No food safety certification
- Lack of experience with dietary restrictions
- Poor understanding of production scheduling
- No knowledge of proper food storage and handling
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