Film Technician- Film Technology

KCA University, established in 1989, is a higher education institution located in Nairobi, Kenya. It offers various academic programs and is dedicated to providing quality education.

This Film Technician role at KCA University involves managing, maintaining, and operating all film production and post-production facilities and equipment. The position provides essential hands-on support for student and faculty film projects, covering all stages from pre-production to final delivery. It also serves as a key resource for technical training and administrative assistance, requiring a technically skilled professional with a strong academic background in film or related media, a deep understanding of cinematic workflows, and a passion for mentoring aspiring filmmakers.

1. Oversee the daily setup, operation, and maintenance of production equipment, including digital cinema cameras, lenses, grip, electric, and sound packages.
2. Manage and maintain post-production labs, including editing suites, color grading stations, and audio mixing rooms.
3. Perform routine preventative maintenance, diagnose technical faults, and coordinate repairs for all production and post-production gear.
4. Manage the department’s equipment inventory, including the check-out/check-in process for camera, lighting, and audio gear.
5. Ensure all technical facilities are calibrated, organized, and meet industry standards for quality and safety, with a focus on data management and storage.
6. Provide advanced support and instruction in non-linear editing (NLE) software like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, and Avid Media Composer.
7. Assist students and faculty with motion graphics, visual effects, and color grading using software such as Adobe After Effects and DaVinci Resolve Studio.
8. Guide users in proper data wrangling and media asset management procedures, from on-set backup through final archive.
9. Lead technical workshops and labs for students on topics like camera operation, lighting techniques, sound recording, and post-production workflows.
10. Mentor student crews on the technical aspects of their film projects, offering creative problem-solving and quality control.
11. Provide direct technical instruction and hands-on training to students and faculty on the proper and safe use of all equipment.
12. Assist students during scheduled lab sessions and on-location shoots, troubleshooting technical issues and ensuring best practices.
13. Develop and update clear documentation, tutorials, and standard operating procedures for all equipment, software, and facilities.
14. Provide administrative support, including scheduling equipment loans, managing lab access, and assisting with new technology procurement.
15. Serve as a primary point of contact for all technical and production-related inquiries.

1. Bachelor’s degree in Film Production, Film Studies, Cinematography, Digital Media, or a related field from a recognized institution.
2. At least one (1) year of relevant working experience in film/video production, post-production, or managing a media lab or equipment cage, preferably in a university or comparable institution.
3. Proven proficiency with digital cinema cameras and a comprehensive understanding of lens selection, camera support, and accessories.
4. Strong knowledge of professional lighting and audio recording techniques for narrative and documentary filmmaking.
5. Demonstrated skill in post-production disciplines, including color grading, sound mixing, and motion graphics (e.g., Adobe After Effects).
6. Expertise in data management, including on-set backup, transcoding, and media asset organization.
7. A demo/portfolio showcasing previous film production work, and credits for current or completed and exhibited projects, is an added advantage.
8. Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
9. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical and creative concepts to diverse audiences.
10. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced academic environment.
11. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
12. Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as required by project production schedules.