A production associate works in the filming or production of TV programs, films, music videos, and broadcasts. They typically have completed college and gained industry experience through internships or entry-level jobs. Employers also require prior experience using certain types of equipment or software.
A production associate is an employee of a broadcasting company or media company involved in the filming or production of television programs, films, music videos, broadcasts and various other types of recordings. Generally, someone who wants to become a production associate must have graduated from high school and most associates have completed college. Many large production companies prefer to hire associates with graduate degrees in addition to prior broadcast or production experience.
Some universities offer degree programs associated with production. Many colleges offer degree programs in media studies, broadcasting, and related topics, and someone who wants to become a production associate will typically apply for one of the courses. Some small production companies also accept applications from individuals who have not completed a full higher education, but who have successfully completed associate degrees or short-term professional classes at community colleges. Universities in some areas offer graduate programs that specifically prepare students to work as television or film production associates.
In addition to academic credentials, anyone looking to become a production associate must also gain some industry experience. Major production companies offer internships to graduate students, and during these programs, students assist experienced associates tasked with installing sound recording equipment, cameras, or lighting. Interns are often assigned administrative tasks such as distributing scripts, filing contracts, and answering phone calls. Production companies sometimes offer full-time jobs to interns who perform well during these programs, although job offers are often dependent on interns completing their undergraduate degrees.
While many production workers gain experience working as interns, others gain on-the-job experience by accepting entry-level jobs at local radio or television stations. These individuals are usually hired as general assistants whose responsibilities may include production work and various other tasks such as cleaning or preparing drinks. In many cases, general assistants earn relatively little when compared to other members of the production team, but the experience gained by these individuals helps them land jobs associated with production in the long run.
Production companies expect someone who wants to become a production associate to have academic credentials and work experience, but employers also require job applicants to have prior experience using certain types of equipment or software. Some people gain this experience by purchasing video equipment and editing software and using it for recreational purposes. Others become familiar with this equipment by volunteering to help with the production of plays and other performances being produced by schools or non-profit groups.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
