How to Become a Production Assistant
Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of a Production Assistant
What does a Production Assistant do?
A Production Assistant assists with coordinating the production of television or web broadcasts, shows, or videos. Monitors designated schedules and timelines to ensure each phase of production stays on track. Being a Production Assistant collaborates with technical specialists and operators for each production's camera, sound, and lighting. Helps with set-up and operation of production equipment such as consoles or teleprompter, and completes any miscellaneous tasks needed for production. Additionally, Production Assistant may require an associate degree or equivalent. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. The Production Assistant works under moderate supervision. Gaining or has attained full proficiency in a specific area of discipline. To be a Production Assistant typically requires 1-3 years of related experience.
Production assistants on films are sometimes attached to individual actors or filmmakers.
In the United States, production assistants in union and non-union workplaces face various tasks on the movie set of a filmmaking project.
For example, union production assistants may be asked to evaluate a movie's daily rushes for a film director or help the film editor decipher ways to alter a scene.
Those who are non-union production assistants are usually asked to complete a variety of tasks by a department head on a film set.
Former Production Assistant Caleb Clark recommends that people who want to be PAs must avoid sitting down, remaining alert at all times.
Step 2: Learn best tips to become a Production Assistant
Best tips for those who want to become a Production Assistant
Here are some tips to become a Production Assistant.
Be late, or simply don't show up at all.
Arrive on set looking like Amy Winehouse.
Offer your business card to my client.
Disappear for a smoke break or bathroom break without communicating.
Act shady or inappropriate around myself, my client, or the talent.
Step 3: View best colleges and universities for Production Assistant
Best colleges and universities for Production Assistant
- Butler University
- Carroll College
- Cooper Union
- High Point University
- Princeton University
- Providence College
Step 4: Think about whether is it worth to be a Production Assistant
Is being a Production Assistant Worth it?
Check out Working as a Production Assistant for a more general outline of PA responsibilities.
This added two hours to the top and end of my day, you have to make sure that you are well rested as the Production Assistant because your days are going to be longer than everyone else.
Don’t let this responsibility get to your head, you are still the Production Assistant, make sure that you give timing warnings but never give commands.
Being a production assistant can be a pretty thankless job but if you look out for your crew and take care of them, they will acknowledge your hard work and thank you for it.
Public Relations Client Assistant (Entry Level)Public Relations Client Assistant (Entry Level)RSI International Indianapolis, Indiana, United States3 hours agoEasy ApplyNew.
Step 5: Prepare relevant skills for being a Production Assistant
What skills do you need to be a Production Assistant?
There are many skills required to succeed in this role, which vary in importance depending on the exact role and department size. The daily workload for this job will be highly dependant on these skills: Audio Mixing, Audio Production, Broadcasting, Media Production, Video Production. Some of the more basic skills required are: Video production software. By growing your skills to reflect the ones mentioned, you are more likely to succeed in this role, and move forward to a more senior position.
A dedicated and reliable Production Assistant with a degree in Film Studies and 2 years of experience in various areas of film production, seeks an opportunity to join your innovative team as a Movie Production Assistant at Orion Films.
Knowledgeable on pre and post production procedures.
In film/TV production, your people skills will serve as your best asset.
The responsibilities of a PA vary greatly, depending on the department you are working in and the kind of production you are working for.
It provides an introduction to the skills used in on-set film production, including all forms of narrative media which utilize film-industry standard organizational structure, professional equipment, and on-set procedures.
Step 6: View average salary for Production Assistant
How much does a Production Assistant make?
The average salary range for a Production Assistant is from $40,572 to $52,081. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.
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Step 7: Find relevant Production Assistant jobs, and apply.
Looking for Production Assistant jobs?
Here are some Production Assistant jobs in the United States.