aka: production runner, film runner, PA
For many people wanting to break into working in film or TV, the production assistant position is often where they start. It is a vital role that ensures that the shoot runs smoothly. Working as a production assistant will help you see firsthand how to make a film. Plus, it can be a great way to make industry contacts.
If you’re interested in learning more about this job, keep reading. We’ll explain how to become a production assistant, including recommended skills and training, possible career routes, and where to find jobs.
What Is a Production Assistant?
A production assistant (PA) is an entry-level role in the film and TV industries. They are sometimes also referred to as production runners, film runners, or just runners. Some of the biggest names in the movie business, including Guy Ritchie, Agnes Varda, and Quentin Tarantino, started their careers as PAs.
Most people start their film careers working in entry-level crew positions like this one because it requires little formal training. Plus, you don’t need previous experience to apply.
In terms of what a production assistant does, they are generally assigned to a department. For instance, they could work for the art department, accounting team, or the key grip. On smaller film sets, there might only be floor PAs who help the 1st assistant director.
The tasks a PA does depends on a few factors, like the scale of the project and overall budget. Also, on-set and office-based assistant responsibilities vary.
Typical duties for on-set PAs include driving the cast to set, handing out call sheets, and making hot drinks for the crew. There are other duties they can help with. For instance, they might block off a road for filming or tidy up the set. It’s also typical for them to relay information from the AD department to the rest of the crew via walkie-talkie.
Office-based production assistants, on the other hand, tend to help with administration during the pre-production phases.
What Does a PA Do?
| Pre-production | – Complete production office admin tasks – Answering phones – Printing and distributing paperwork – Organize scripts |
| Production | – Relay info from AD to crew – Drive cast and crew to set – Make tea and coffee for the crew – Keep the film set clean and tidy – Hand out call sheets |
| Post-production | N/A |
How to Become a PA
Essential production assistant skills:
- Physical fitness
- Stamina
- Communication
- Attention to detail
- Organization
- Teamwork
- Productivity
- Adaptability
You don’t need experience or skills to become a PA. However, having some basic filmmaking knowledge and enthusiasm for working in the industry is helpful when applying to jobs.
People often work as PA for a year or two before progressing to a higher job role in the film industry. In the meantime, you’ll master a whole host of skills needed to succeed as you work your way up the ladder.
Another advantage of being a production assistant is that you have the opportunity to watch how a film set works. If you are unsure of what kind of job you aspire to have on set, you’ll be able to watch people work together and see what appeals to you.
This job is a great first step for anyone wanting a career in the film industry. It can sometimes be challenging, as the work days are long. However, it is a great way to get your foot in the door and work toward your goals in any department.
Finding Production Assistant Jobs
You’ll find these entry-level jobs on TV and film job sites under titles like “runner”, “film runner”, “floor runner”, “production runner”, or “production assistant.”.
They work in every film and TV department. If you know you want to work in a particular department in the future, you may want to try for a job there.
For example, if you want to work in the art department, look for jobs as art runners/assistants. From there, you can work your way up the career ladder directly — from art assistant to art director to, eventually, production designer.
If you find that the job market is super competitive, consider applying to jobs on lower-budget film sets. You could also try working full-time as a PA for a media company to gain experience before applying to work on film sets.
How Much Money Do PAs Make?
Minimum pay rate for PAs: $19/hour
The production assistant is typically the lowest-paid member of a TV or film crew. Most productions pay minimum wage. However, some unions like the IATSE pay more.
While this is the general salary recommendation and minimum, pay rates vary based on a variety of factors, like budget, production size, location, and experience.
