Membership Application
For information on what I.A.T.S.E. Local 849 does, the geographic area covered in our jurisdiction, and the departments we represent, please visit our about page.
Membership in IATSE 849 is open to all production technicians who qualify regardless of sex, race, creed, colour, nationality, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or place of origin.
Membership with Local 849 has a range of benefits including access to a medical plan, a national RRSP plan, life insurance, hiring priority over non-members, access to union discounts on a vast selection of brands across a number of industries, training reimbursement programs & opportunities, the opportunity to contribute to the Local through committees and advocacy work, and more. For some details on the benefits of membership, please click here
This page contains all of the information on the requirements for membership, the forms for a membership application, and details on the process of submitting a membership application.
Departmental Requirements
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Overview
Each department has specific requirements in order to become a member. Please select a department from the dropdown list above to view the requirements.
If you have any questions about the requirements, please e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. -
Animal Wrangler
The Animal Wrangler Department is responsible for taking care of all animals that appear in front of the camera. They train the animals to perform the tasks required and handle them during the shooting of the scenes that the animals appear in.
To make an application for membership in the Animal Wrangler department, an applicant must provide the following:- A completed Membership Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Established residency in one of the three Maritime Provinces for a period of at least six months immediately preceding the application being submitted. Applicants must provide two of the following documents to confirm their residency:
- Driver’s license from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Proof of having filed income tax for the previous year in one of the three Maritime Provinces.
- Two letters of recommendation from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Proof of working (paid) a minimum of 360 hours in each department an applicant is applying in over three different film or video productions. Proof of hours can be provided through the following formats:
- Record Of Employment(s)(ROEs),
- Paystubs,
- Payroll reports from a payroll company (such as EP Canada or Cast and Crew), or
- A combination of invoices and a letter from the producer, production manager or key that you worked for (this is typically only for non-union work and needs approval by the Executive Board)
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Costumes
The Costume Department is responsible for all clothes worn by the actors and extras in front of the camera. They are responsible for purchasing, renting and/or making all the clothes worn by the performers, both Actors and Background Players, working in consultation with the Director and the Actor. They provide several versions of one outfit if required to expedite shooting and provide clothing to keep performers warm and dry while they are on set rehearsing or waiting to shoot.
To make an application for membership in the Costume department, an applicant must provide the following:- A completed Membership Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Set Etiquette Course
- Must have costume related education of some kind or equivalent paid work in costuming (e.g. theatre, costuming, dance costuming, alterationist, tailor, fashion, etc.)
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Established residency in one of the three Maritime Provinces for a period of at least six months immediately preceding the application being submitted. Applicants must provide two of the following documents to confirm their residency:
- Driver’s license from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Proof of having filed income tax for the previous year in one of the three Maritime Provinces.
- Two letters of recommendation from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Proof of working (paid) a minimum of 360 hours in each department an applicant is applying in over three different film or video productions. Proof of hours can be provided through the following formats:
- Record Of Employment(s)(ROEs),
- Paystubs,
- Payroll reports from a payroll company (such as EP Canada or Cast and Crew), or
- A combination of invoices and a letter from the producer, production manager or key that you worked for (this is typically only for non-union work and needs approval by the Executive Board)
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Craft Service
The Craft Service Department provides the nutritional and beverage needs, other than that provided as full meals, of all the production personnel, actors and extras (when specified) on set during the shooting day. Typically, the department will maintain a supply of hot & cold beverages and snack foods at all times on set, and and also substantial snacks to take the crew through to the meal break and wrap.
To make an application for membership in the Craft Service department, an applicant must provide the following:- A completed Membership Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- A Valid Standard First Aid with CPR & AED Certificate
- A Valid Food Handlers Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Established residency in one of the three Maritime Provinces for a period of at least six months immediately preceding the application being submitted. Applicants must provide two of the following documents to confirm their residency:
- Driver’s license from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Proof of having filed income tax for the previous year in one of the three Maritime Provinces.
- Two letters of recommendation from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Proof of working (paid) a minimum of 360 hours in each department an applicant is applying in over three different film or video productions. Proof of hours can be provided through the following formats:
- Record Of Employment(s)(ROEs),
- Paystubs,
- Payroll reports from a payroll company (such as EP Canada or Cast and Crew), or
- A combination of invoices and a letter from the producer, production manager or key that you worked for (this is typically only for non-union work and needs approval by the Executive Board)
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Diving
The Diving Department handles all work in and under the water including the safety of all the actors and other personnel working in and under the water and assisting in constructing platforms and rigging in or under the water. Working closely with the Marine Department, divers always work in pairs.
To make an application for membership in the Diving department, an applicant must provide the following:- A completed Membership Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- A Valid Standard First Aid with CPR & AED Certificate
- A Minimum of a Rescue Diving Certificate
- A Valid Oxygen Provider Course Certificate
- Been deemed competent and fit in accordance with CSA Standards Z275.4-97 (Competency Standard for Diving Operations), Z275.2-92 9 (Occupational Safety Code for Diving Operations) and the current Occupational Diving Regulations for the Province of Operation
- Proof of having taken a recognized Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Established residency in one of the three Maritime Provinces for a period of at least six months immediately preceding the application being submitted. Applicants must provide two of the following documents to confirm their residency:
- Driver’s license from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Proof of having filed income tax for the previous year in one of the three Maritime Provinces.
- Two letters of recommendation from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Proof of working (paid) a minimum of 360 hours in each department an applicant is applying in over three different film or video productions. Proof of hours can be provided through the following formats:
- Record Of Employment(s)(ROEs),
- Paystubs,
- Payroll reports from a payroll company (such as EP Canada or Cast and Crew), or
- A combination of invoices and a letter from the producer, production manager or key that you worked for (this is typically only for non-union work and needs approval by the Executive Board)
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Greens
The Greens Department are specialists who alter the look of locations with plants, trees and other landscaping materials.
To make an application for membership in the Greens department, an applicant must provide the following:- A completed Membership Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Established residency in one of the three Maritime Provinces for a period of at least six months immediately preceding the application being submitted. Applicants must provide two of the following documents to confirm their residency:
- Driver’s license from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Proof of having filed income tax for the previous year in one of the three Maritime Provinces.
- Two letters of recommendation from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Proof of working (paid) a minimum of 360 hours in each department an applicant is applying in over three different film or video productions. Proof of hours can be provided through the following formats:
- Record Of Employment(s)(ROEs),
- Paystubs,
- Payroll reports from a payroll company (such as EP Canada or Cast and Crew), or
- A combination of invoices and a letter from the producer, production manager or key that you worked for (this is typically only for non-union work and needs approval by the Executive Board)
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Grip
The Grip Department works closely with the Lighting Department & Director of Photography to position & move the camera and blocking or diffusing light sources. The department is in charge of providing scaffolding for hanging the lights, add flags & silks to soften lights and create shade. They also provide means for creating high angle, low angle or unusual shots, and dollies & cranes for camera movement. Grips are also responsible for securing the camera in other situations such as on picture vehicles.
To make an application for membership in the Grip department, an applicant must provide the following:- A completed Membership Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Established residency in one of the three Maritime Provinces for a period of at least six months immediately preceding the application being submitted. Applicants must provide two of the following documents to confirm their residency:
- Driver’s license from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Proof of having filed income tax for the previous year in one of the three Maritime Provinces.
- Two letters of recommendation from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Proof of working (paid) a minimum of 360 hours in each department an applicant is applying in over three different film or video productions. Proof of hours can be provided through the following formats:
- Record Of Employment(s)(ROEs),
- Paystubs,
- Payroll reports from a payroll company (such as EP Canada or Cast and Crew), or
- A combination of invoices and a letter from the producer, production manager or key that you worked for (this is typically only for non-union work and needs approval by the Executive Board)
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Hair
The Hair Department dress the hair of all performers, both Actors and Background Players, appropriate to their character and in consultation with the Director and the Actor. They also provide and dress wigs and sideburns when required, and aid the Costume Department in the placement of hats.
To make an application for membership in the Hair department, an applicant must provide the following:- A completed Membership Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- A Valid Provincial Hair Licence
- Proof of having taken a recognized Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Established residency in one of the three Maritime Provinces for a period of at least six months immediately preceding the application being submitted. Applicants must provide two of the following documents to confirm their residency:
- Driver’s license from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Proof of having filed income tax for the previous year in one of the three Maritime Provinces.
- Two letters of recommendation from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Proof of working (paid) a minimum of 360 hours in each department an applicant is applying in over three different film or video productions. Proof of hours can be provided through the following formats:
- Record Of Employment(s)(ROEs),
- Paystubs,
- Payroll reports from a payroll company (such as EP Canada or Cast and Crew), or
- A combination of invoices and a letter from the producer, production manager or key that you worked for (this is typically only for non-union work and needs approval by the Executive Board)
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Lighting
The Lighting Department works closely with the Grip Department and the Director of Photography to light each scene, as well as managing, supplying and distributing all electrical power to all departments that need it. The department handles all the lights on set, including anything that is attached to the lights. They may work with the Rigging team to build the grid for lights in a studio.
To make an application for membership in the Lighting department, an applicant must provide the following:- A completed Membership Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Established residency in one of the three Maritime Provinces for a period of at least six months immediately preceding the application being submitted. Applicants must provide two of the following documents to confirm their residency:
- Driver’s license from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Proof of having filed income tax for the previous year in one of the three Maritime Provinces.
- Two letters of recommendation from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Proof of working (paid) a minimum of 360 hours in each department an applicant is applying in over three different film or video productions. Proof of hours can be provided through the following formats:
- Record Of Employment(s)(ROEs),
- Paystubs,
- Payroll reports from a payroll company (such as EP Canada or Cast and Crew), or
- A combination of invoices and a letter from the producer, production manager or key that you worked for (this is typically only for non-union work and needs approval by the Executive Board)
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Makeup
The Makeup Department is responsible for all facial and body makeup, including bruising and wounds, and facial hair on the performers, both Actors and Background Players. They are also responsible for any prosthetics required for special effects. They design the looks in consultation with the Director and the Actor.
To make an application for membership in the Makeup department, an applicant must provide the following:- A completed Membership Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Valid Make-Up Certificate or Diploma from a recognized Makeup School OR provide a portfolio of your work and a 300 word summary of your experience and self-directed study
- Completed a practical exam organized by the Local 849 Makeup Department with a passing mark of 150 out of 200.
- Proof of having taken a recognized Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Established residency in one of the three Maritime Provinces for a period of at least six months immediately preceding the application being submitted. Applicants must provide two of the following documents to confirm their residency:
- Driver’s license from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Proof of having filed income tax for the previous year in one of the three Maritime Provinces.
- Two letters of recommendation from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Proof of working (paid) a minimum of 360 hours in each department an applicant is applying in over three different film or video productions. Proof of hours can be provided through the following formats:
- Record Of Employment(s)(ROEs),
- Paystubs,
- Payroll reports from a payroll company (such as EP Canada or Cast and Crew), or
- A combination of invoices and a letter from the producer, production manager or key that you worked for (this is typically only for non-union work and needs approval by the Executive Board)
*Anyone registering to be listed in this department should be prepared to bring the Recommended Kit List when hired -
Marine
The Marine Department is responsible for providing and operating all marine equipment and for ensuring the safety of all marine activities as required by the production. The team generally consists of a Marine Coordinator, and a team of boat wranglers, safety swimmers and other assistants depending on the requirements of the show
To make an application for membership in the Marine department, an applicant must provide the following:- A completed Membership Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- A Valid Standard First Aid with CPR & AED Certificate
- Marine Emergency Duties (MED) - A1 OR STCW 6.1 Basic Safety
- Small Vessel Operators Proficiency (SVOP) Certificate
- Restricted Operator’s Certificate (ROC)
- Proof of having taken a recognized Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Established residency in one of the three Maritime Provinces for a period of at least six months immediately preceding the application being submitted. Applicants must provide two of the following documents to confirm their residency:
- Driver’s license from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Proof of having filed income tax for the previous year in one of the three Maritime Provinces.
- Two letters of recommendation from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Proof of working (paid) a minimum of 360 hours in each department an applicant is applying in over three different film or video productions. Proof of hours can be provided through the following formats:
- Record Of Employment(s)(ROEs),
- Paystubs,
- Payroll reports from a payroll company (such as EP Canada or Cast and Crew), or
- A combination of invoices and a letter from the producer, production manager or key that you worked for (this is typically only for non-union work and needs approval by the Executive Board)
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Props
The Props Department handles anything an actor carries or handles. They work closely with the Set Decoration Department providing top dressing on a set if the actor is likely to handle it.
To make an application for membership in the Props department, an applicant must provide the following:- A completed Membership Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Established residency in one of the three Maritime Provinces for a period of at least six months immediately preceding the application being submitted. Applicants must provide two of the following documents to confirm their residency:
- Driver’s license from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Proof of having filed income tax for the previous year in one of the three Maritime Provinces.
- Two letters of recommendation from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Proof of working (paid) a minimum of 360 hours in each department an applicant is applying in over three different film or video productions. Proof of hours can be provided through the following formats:
- Record Of Employment(s)(ROEs),
- Paystubs,
- Payroll reports from a payroll company (such as EP Canada or Cast and Crew), or
- A combination of invoices and a letter from the producer, production manager or key that you worked for (this is typically only for non-union work and needs approval by the Executive Board)
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Scenic Paint
The Scenic Paint Department alters surfaces to look different, aged, or as if made of other materials.
To make an application for membership in the Scenic Paint department, an applicant must provide the following:- A completed Membership Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Established residency in one of the three Maritime Provinces for a period of at least six months immediately preceding the application being submitted. Applicants must provide two of the following documents to confirm their residency:
- Driver’s license from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Proof of having filed income tax for the previous year in one of the three Maritime Provinces.
- Two letters of recommendation from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Proof of working (paid) a minimum of 360 hours in each department an applicant is applying in over three different film or video productions. Proof of hours can be provided through the following formats:
- Record Of Employment(s)(ROEs),
- Paystubs,
- Payroll reports from a payroll company (such as EP Canada or Cast and Crew), or
- A combination of invoices and a letter from the producer, production manager or key that you worked for (this is typically only for non-union work and needs approval by the Executive Board)
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Script Supervisor
The Script Supervisor Department works with all departments on set to ensure that everything that is shot can be used by the Editor when cutting the film back into story continuity. They keep details of every shot, all action, camera details, length in time of shot, and any deviations from script. They provide slate numbers and circled prints. They keep a list of shots and wild sound owed. They provide the Production Office with a Daily Production Report, and they provide the Editor with a lined script that records all shots and a continuity report with the details of each set-up.
To make an application for membership in the Script Supervisor department, an applicant must provide the following:- A completed Membership Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Completed a Script Supervision Workshop recognized by at least two Script Supervisor members of Local 849.
- Proof of having taken a recognized Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Established residency in one of the three Maritime Provinces for a period of at least six months immediately preceding the application being submitted. Applicants must provide two of the following documents to confirm their residency:
- Driver’s license from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Proof of having filed income tax for the previous year in one of the three Maritime Provinces.
- Two letters of recommendation from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Proof of working (paid) a minimum of 360 hours in each department an applicant is applying in over three different film or video productions. Proof of hours can be provided through the following formats:
- Record Of Employment(s)(ROEs),
- Paystubs,
- Payroll reports from a payroll company (such as EP Canada or Cast and Crew), or
- A combination of invoices and a letter from the producer, production manager or key that you worked for (this is typically only for non-union work and needs approval by the Executive Board)
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Set Construction
The Set Construction Department builds sets, and alters the look of an existing location. This includes fabrication in wood, metal, foam, plastics and similar materials.
To make an application for membership in the Set Construction department, an applicant must provide the following:- A completed Membership Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Established residency in one of the three Maritime Provinces for a period of at least six months immediately preceding the application being submitted. Applicants must provide two of the following documents to confirm their residency:
- Driver’s license from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Proof of having filed income tax for the previous year in one of the three Maritime Provinces.
- Two letters of recommendation from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Proof of working (paid) a minimum of 360 hours in each department an applicant is applying in over three different film or video productions. Proof of hours can be provided through the following formats:
- Record Of Employment(s)(ROEs),
- Paystubs,
- Payroll reports from a payroll company (such as EP Canada or Cast and Crew), or
- A combination of invoices and a letter from the producer, production manager or key that you worked for (this is typically only for non-union work and needs approval by the Executive Board)
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Set Decoration
The Set Decoration Department provides all furnishings, layering in various elements to help tell the story.
To make an application for membership in the Set Decoration department, an applicant must provide the following:- A completed Membership Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Established residency in one of the three Maritime Provinces for a period of at least six months immediately preceding the application being submitted. Applicants must provide two of the following documents to confirm their residency:
- Driver’s license from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Proof of having filed income tax for the previous year in one of the three Maritime Provinces.
- Two letters of recommendation from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Proof of working (paid) a minimum of 360 hours in each department an applicant is applying in over three different film or video productions. Proof of hours can be provided through the following formats:
- Record Of Employment(s)(ROEs),
- Paystubs,
- Payroll reports from a payroll company (such as EP Canada or Cast and Crew), or
- A combination of invoices and a letter from the producer, production manager or key that you worked for (this is typically only for non-union work and needs approval by the Executive Board)
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Sound
The Sound Department records all sound on set; including dialogue, wild lines, wild sounds, roomtone, and more.
To make an application for membership in the Sound department, an applicant must provide the following:- A completed Membership Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Established residency in one of the three Maritime Provinces for a period of at least six months immediately preceding the application being submitted. Applicants must provide two of the following documents to confirm their residency:
- Driver’s license from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Proof of having filed income tax for the previous year in one of the three Maritime Provinces.
- Two letters of recommendation from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Proof of working (paid) a minimum of 360 hours in each department an applicant is applying in over three different film or video productions. Proof of hours can be provided through the following formats:
- Record Of Employment(s)(ROEs),
- Paystubs,
- Payroll reports from a payroll company (such as EP Canada or Cast and Crew), or
- A combination of invoices and a letter from the producer, production manager or key that you worked for (this is typically only for non-union work and needs approval by the Executive Board)
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Special Effects
The Special Effects Department is in charge of any special effects on set such as explosions, fire, rain, atmosphere and smoke.
To make an application for membership in the Special Effects department, an applicant must provide the following:- A completed Membership Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- A Valid Standard First Aid with CPR & AED Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Set Etiquette Course
- A minimum of six months training or equivalent experience, as approved by the department in a minimum of five of the following: Mechanical, Pyrotechnics with an Occasional User Theatrical Artist Pyro Card, Scenic Carpentry, Weapon Handling Firearms Acquisition Certificate, Electric or Electronic Plumbing, Welding.
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Established residency in one of the three Maritime Provinces for a period of at least six months immediately preceding the application being submitted. Applicants must provide two of the following documents to confirm their residency:
- Driver’s license from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Proof of having filed income tax for the previous year in one of the three Maritime Provinces.
- Two letters of recommendation from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Proof of working (paid) a minimum of 360 hours in each department an applicant is applying in over three different film or video productions. Proof of hours can be provided through the following formats:
- Record Of Employment(s)(ROEs),
- Paystubs,
- Payroll reports from a payroll company (such as EP Canada or Cast and Crew), or
- A combination of invoices and a letter from the producer, production manager or key that you worked for (this is typically only for non-union work and needs approval by the Executive Board)
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Transportation
The Transportation Department is responsible to provide, maintain and operate all motor vehicles and trailers associated with a production. The department is responsible for safe operation of all vehicles and for timely movement of all personnel, film, equipment and supplies, as required.
To make an application for membership in the Transportation department, an applicant must provide the following:- A completed Membership Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- A Valid Driver’s License Equivalent to a Nova Scotia, New Brunswick or PEI Class 4 (or better)
- A Recent Driver’s Abstract (An Employer Abstract is all that's needed)
- A Valid Standard First Aid with CPR & AED Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Established residency in one of the three Maritime Provinces for a period of at least six months immediately preceding the application being submitted. Applicants must provide two of the following documents to confirm their residency:
- Driver’s license from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
- Proof of having filed income tax for the previous year in one of the three Maritime Provinces.
- Two letters of recommendation from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Proof of working (paid) a minimum of 360 hours in each department an applicant is applying in over three different film or video productions. Proof of hours can be provided through the following formats:
- Record Of Employment(s)(ROEs),
- Paystubs,
- Payroll reports from a payroll company (such as EP Canada or Cast and Crew), or
- A combination of invoices and a letter from the producer, production manager or key that you worked for (this is typically only for non-union work and needs approval by the Executive Board)
Application Steps
Step 1: Submission of Application
The applicant is required to complete and submit a "Preliminary Application for Membership" form, along with all other materials as mentioned above.
Step 2: Confirmation of Experience
Once all forms and monies are received by the office, a check is completed by the office to ensure that the information contained on the applicant's resume is accurate and that the applicant has the requisite experience required for membership. There may be situations where an applying technician may need a modification of requirements - all modifications must be approved by the Local 849 Executive Board before moving onto the next step.
NOTE: If the applicant's experience cannot be confirmed, they will not move forward to the next step.
Step 3: Application Package
Once the applicant's preliminary application form and all other materials have been received and their experience is confirmed, a physical application package of paperwork will be sent in the mail. The completed original forms are required to be returned to the Local 849 office. The required items include:
- Completed Preliminary Application form (if not already on file)
- Completed International application form
- Canada Life RRSP forms
- Union Benefits medical plan forms
Additionally, the applicant will be required to make a $200 payment made up of an Application Processing Fee ($100) and a First Quarter Dues Deposit ($100). Payment information will be sent with the application package.
NOTE: The application for membership will not proceed past this point until all completed forms and monies are received by the office.
Step 4: Vote on Application
The membership of Local 849 will vote on each of the applicants through the online member portal. Votes typically occur once per month and are usually sent out on the first Monday of the month. Members of Local 849 typically have three weeks to submit their votes.
Step 5: Follow-up of Vote
Following the Membership Vote, the office will advise the applicant of the result. Once voted in as a member, and provided all paperwork is in order and all monies have been received, the application will be forwarded to the International office in New York for approval. Even though the application has been voted on and accepted by the membership, the applicant does not officially become a member of the IATSE until their application has been approved and stamped by the International Office in New York.
If the applicant does not get approved by the membership, they will have a chance to re-submit their application or additional materials for another membership vote. In most scenarios, applicants are accepted into membership on their first membership vote.
Step 6: Acceptance into the Local
Once the applicant has been processed and accepted through the International Office, and the approved application forms have returned to Local 849, the applicant's name will be added to the Membership Database, allowing them access to the full member portal. The New Member will receive emailed notice that they are now a member of Local 849.
Step 7: Swearing-In
The new member should be officially sworn in by a member of Local 849's Executive Board when possible. New members are considered full members, will not be held back from working, and are obligated to pay all necessary dues, even if they haven't been sworn in yet.
Please review our Membership FAQs page for further details or answers to some questions. Any other questions regarding membership, requirements, or the process can be directed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.