Also called: SFX Tech, Effects Technician
Builds and runs physical effects: smoke machines, bullet hits, rigged props, and wind.
An SFX tech might rig tiny 'squibs' that make fake bullet holes, run fans to blow a character's hair, and fill a room with haze so light beams show.
Approximate.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
Certificate, about 2 years after high school. Mechanical or theater technical skills; licenses for explosives work.
Ways in: On-the-job training, Trade school, Apprenticeship. Training cost: Get paid while you train.
Majors to look at: Welding (trade school), Theater Technology.
Growing about average. Follows production levels.
Low risk for 10 years. Some effects move to CGI, but building and running smoke, rain and rigged props on set stays hands-on.
Classes: Shop or welding CTE, Physics, Electronics, Theater tech crew.
Official data: O*NET occupation 27-4099.
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