TV/Film Production Assistant

TV/film production assistants co-ordinate the administration of all kinds of projects from news broadcasts to reality TV shows, music and comedy shows, soap operas, dramas and feature films. They support other members of the production team by taking on a wide range of tasks that do not require specialist training. Their duties vary according to the type and size of the project, but may involve attending production meetings, managing budgets and expenses, editing and distributing scripts, booking facilities and making travel arrangements.

There are no standard hours for production assistants, and early starts, late finishes and some weekend work are likely to be required. Production assistants are usually office based, but spend much of their time moving between production areas. Many jobs involve travelling within the UK and overseas and spending periods away from home. Filming on location could involve working outdoors in different weather conditions.

Salaries may range from around £15,250 to over £30,000 a year.

A production assistant should:

• be a good organiser
• be able to prioritise many different tasks and meet tight deadlines
• have excellent communication skills
• be interested in the media and the way that TV and film productions are made.

Production assistants work for terrestrial, satellite, digital and cable broadcasters as well as independent television and film production companies. Self-employment is common. Over half of the UK's TV and film industry is based in London and south-east England. Many jobs are never advertised by conventional methods so it is important to build a network of contacts.

There are no set educational requirements, but entry is fiercely competitive and many new entrants have Higher National Certificates/Diplomas (HNCs/HNDs) or degrees. There is a range of courses in TV and film production available throughout the UK. New entrant schemes are also offered by organisations such as Skillset, the BBC and Channel 4. Practical experience and evidence of commitment is usually required. A typical way in is to enter the industry as a runner and, after gaining experience on the job, to apply for production assistant positions.

Evidence of commitment and practical experience may help adults to enter this work.

Production assistants usually train on the job and may also attend short courses on subjects such as gallery techniques, continuity, location filming or live studio skills. Freelancers may have to fund their own training, but could be eligible for support from Skillset to cover part of the fees.

Production assistants may work their way towards more senior roles or into related areas, such as research. Freelancers need to ensure a regular supply of work by establishing their reputation and building a network of contacts.

Further details