Production Assistant (PA)

Working Schedule

• Production Assistants may work long and irregular hours, including nights and weekends, depending on the production schedule. Work environments include studios as well as outdoor set locations. They typically work on a per-project basis, so once a production ends, they may need to look for additional opportunities. However, some are steadily employed with studios, networks, or production companies.

Typical Duties

Duties can vary considerably, based on the project, number of other PAs, and experience. Below are just a few of the possibilities!

• Pre-Production

1. Assist with securing permits and locations for shoots
2. Coordinate cast and crew schedules
3. Perform administrative tasks such as filing paperwork or managing databases
4. Ensure props and set pieces are accounted for and placed correctly

• Beginning of Production

1. Assist with setting up and breaking down equipment
2. Help set up craft services (food and beverage stations) and do coffee runs
3. Distribute call sheets, scripts, and other materials
4. Transport crew members and talent to and from locations
5. Handle talent check-ins and manage their schedules

• During Production

1. Support various departments, including camera, lighting, sound, wardrobe, and props teams, as assigned
2. Run errands and take care of minor logistical tasks
3. Assist with on-set crowd control and security
4. Monitor sets for potential issues. Report or resolve them promptly
5. Facilitate communication between the cast and crew members
6. Be mindful of production hierarchies and protocols (such as relaying messages to high-profile talent through an assistant director)
7. Assist during rehearsals, including marking actors’ positions
8. Helping day players and background extras understand their tasks

• Ongoing Tasks

1. Ensure that the set is safe and organized
2. Maintain professionalism and strict confidentiality
3. Help to foster a positive, productive working environment
4. Handle petty cash and manage receipts for on-set expenses
5. Coordinate with the transportation department for equipment and vehicle needs

• End of Production

1. Prepare and distribute daily production reports
2. Assist with clean-up actions
3. Ensure all props and set pieces are accounted for 

Soft Skills

• Active listening
• Attention to detail
• Budget-conscious
• Calm under pressure
• Collaborative
• Communication skills
• Confidence
• Decisiveness
• Detail-oriented
• Flexibility
• Multitasking
• Organizational skills
• Patience
• Persistence
• Persuasiveness
• Problem-solving skills
• Reliability
• Teamwork
• Time management

Technical Skills

• Basic understanding of film and video production processes and terminology
• Familiarity with production equipment
• Proficient use of handheld radios and, in some cases, lavalier (i.e. lapel ) mics
• Proficiency with scheduling software and admin tools  
• Knowledge of safety protocols on set 
• Ability to perform minor technical troubleshooting  
• Basic administrative skills  
• Familiarity with sound and lighting technologies 
• General understanding of the roles and responsibilities of crew members

• Advertising and PR firms
• Motion picture studios and independent film companies
• Music video, commercial, and event production companies
• Performing arts industries
• Television studios, including news organizations

Many job descriptions are specific about the duties expected for that position. But when it comes to Production Assistants, flexibility is key. They must be ready to tackle a huge range of tasks, without necessarily being an expert at them. And because they’re always on the move, they must quickly master the use of radios (i.e., “walkie-talkies”) and the affiliated lingo.

Film production is extremely expensive, with every minute on set costing potentially tens of thousands of dollars. That’s why the role demands attention to detail and the ability to thrive under pressure. PAs often put in long hours with potentially unpredictable schedules. To avoid burnout, they’ve got to practice self-care, such as eating right, staying hydrated, and resting between productions. Some are full-time employees who enjoy a bit of job security. But most work on a per-project basis, relying on connections and word-of-mouth to maintain consistent employment.

The job offers valuable industry experience and networking opportunities that can lead to further career advancement for those with ambition. But sometimes PAs deal with stressed-out actors or crew members, which requires the ability to remain calm and professional. That doesn’t mean tolerating abuse, though. As valuable team members, PAs deserve the same respect as anyone else on set – and are usually appreciated for their efforts! 

The entertainment industry is rapidly evolving, impacting the roles of many trade professionals. PAs are not immune to these changes. For example, they must keep up with new software programs used for scheduling or new protocols for maintaining the confidentiality of scripts. Remote and virtual production trends also present new opportunities and challenges for PAs. PAs may be involved in implementing and maintaining these sustainable practices on set.

Additionally, the rise of streaming platforms has shifted the landscape, creating a demand for more diverse and high-quality content. PAs find themselves navigating the complexities of multi-platform releases and managing tighter production schedules to meet viewer expectations.

Production Assistants often enjoyed working on school projects, organizing events, or participating in theater and AV clubs. Growing up, they likely had a keen interest in movies and TV, and how things work behind the scenes.