A film production assistant performs various tasks on a film set, from administrative duties to equipment procurement and film editing. Multitasking, time management, computer proficiency, and good communication skills are essential. This position is a stepping stone to more professional and lucrative jobs in the film industry. No educational requirements or work experience prerequisites are necessary.
A film production assistant performs a wide range of tasks on a film set, from administrative tasks to tasks involving equipment procurement, film editing, lunch and cafeteria fetching. Traditionally, she has been expected to do whatever is necessary to facilitate the filming project. This basic work can be done on a commercial Hollywood movie set, in a college environment that produces films for students, or on location anywhere in the world.
Each day in this position usually involves doing an entirely different list of tasks. These requests traditionally come from the producer, director, writer, or other people involved in making the film. As demands are often made concurrently and assigned the same degree of urgency, an efficient film production assistant needs strong time management and prioritization skills. Long, erratic hours are commonly associated with this job.
Being able to effectively multitask is often considered one of the most important qualifications for a film production assistant job. Proficiency in computer operations, project coordination and communications is highly desirable. Excellent record keeping skills and exemplary research skills are typically required to excel in this position.
An assistant’s computer proficiency is required to communicate via e-mail and travel and hotels. She may also often be asked to research specific requests from the production’s crew or actors. Organizing and maintaining film-related records are common tasks required of a production assistant.
In addition to being skilled in administrative and personal assistance, this position typically requires good listening and understanding skills. Since many different people often make requests at the same time, a film production assistant needs to take notes and act accordingly. Generally, she is required to have a positive attitude and remain composed and focused under the most stressful of circumstances.
This position is traditionally seen as a stepping stone to more professional and lucrative jobs in the film industry. Based on this view, a film production assistant is expected to learn the works of other crew members to make them more valuable to the production and increase their chances of promotion. Rumor has it that a considerable number of famous directors and producers began their careers as production assistants.
Generally, there are no educational requirements or work experience prerequisites for this position. In fact, film production assistants often have advanced degrees in a variety of subjects, but they believe that the training and opportunities of this job are more important in achieving their goals. Some applicants may have a bachelor’s degree in film studies or related genres.
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