Job Roles in Film Production

Pre-Production

Job Role: Producer

Responsibilities: The Producer is the person who is responsible for making
decisions. The producer will have the responsibility to make up ideas for the story
and hire the writers that will make the scripts for their ideas. Overall the producer will
make the final decisions on aspects like the filming location, deciding on the budget
and hiring people to be a part of the production staff.

The Producer works with everyone that is involved in creating the film, this involves
the production team but also would involve the distribution and marketing teams.

The Producer would need a wide knowledge of the processes of making a film and
would need to know how to tell a story. The Producer would need to know how to
make a successful film and know to advertise the film when it’s being released. The
producer would also need to have leadership skills since they are incharge of the
entire production team.

Job Role: Casting Director

Responsibilities: The Casting Director is responsible for finding the cast who will be
in the film. The Casting Directors will read the scripts and then have meetings with
people like the Producer and the Director to know what type of people they want.
The Casting Director will need to find the right person for the right role and will also
need a large understanding of acting. Casting Directors will attend theatre
productions to spot potential actors and then negotiate with the actors to get them to
act in the film.

The Casting Director will work with the Producers, Directors and in some cases the
writers to find the actor that best fits for the film. The Casting Director will also be
responsible for contacting actors and their agents to convince and make a deal with
them to make sure that they can get that actor to be inside the film.

The Casting Director will need to have a good knowledge of the industry with a
passion for cinema or TV drama and know what trends are popular in the industry.
They would also need a good knowledge of actors and a memory of those that they
have seen in the past.

Job Role: Screenwriter

Responsibilities: The Screenwriter will be responsible for writing and developing
the scripts for the production. The Screenwriter will need to prepare the scripts to
make sure that it’s good enough for the actors to get a good knowledge of where the
scenes are set, emotion and other aspects that the audience will see on screen.
They will be working with people like the Producers, Directors and Actors to make
sure that the script works for them and will also normally be working with short
deadlines. Most Screenwriters are normally freelance and in film, the screenwriter
will make around three drafts of the script with the third one being known as ‘the
polish’. This version of the script will be the one that is sent to the producer.

The Screenwriter will work with development producers and their assistants.
Sometimes the screenwriters will be supported by researchers who will make sure
everything is fact-checked. Sometimes, Screenwriters may be supervised by Script
editors who will oversee the scripts.

The Screenwriter will need to have a large knowledge of screenwriter and know how
to improve and fix a script, as well as this, the Screenwriter will need to be creative
so they can write a good script. The Screenwriter will need to have a passion for the
industry and be able to find opportunities for themselves.

Production
Job Role: Director
Responsibilities: The Director is the main creative lead for the film. The Director
would hold the creative vision from pre-production through till the final edit. The
director would normally be employed by either the Executive Producer or the
Producer. The Director would need to Imagine how the script would look when it is
being acted out and then work closely with the Producers to employ people like the
Director of Photography, Assistant Directors and Production Designers. The Director
would also be working with the Casting Directors to help select the actors that would
fit best for the production and then would work with people like the Director of
Photography to make notes and camera shots and script changes. The director
might also have to rehearse with actors before they start filming and choreograph
where the actors are positioned. The Director would also be responsible for
employing other members of the production team for aspects like lighting, wardrobe
and make-up and then would work with the actors to ensure that they are getting the
best performance out of them.

The Director would work with every department head, especially in the Production
part of creating the film because they would have to work closely with the director of
photography and the first assistant editor.

The Director would need to have Leadership skills because they would need to
share their vision of the film with the heads of the department and would also need to
manage the cast and the crew to make creative decisions. The Director would need
to have a good knowledge of Production and Arts so they can get the best out of the
production. The director would also need to have a good imagination to create the
ideas for the sets, camera angles and more.

Job Role: Propmaster

Responsibilities: The Propmaster is responsible for all the props that are inside the
production. The Propmaster would normally start work a few weeks before they start
filming, they would do research and make a list of all the props that are needed. The
Propmaster would then need to either Hire the props or create a ‘set and strike’
schedule to have their team create the props. The Propmaster would need to employ
people like carpenters, artists and prop makers who will work with the production
buyers to create the props. When all shooting is over the Propmaster will need to
return all the props that they hired and sell or safely dispose of the ones that they
made.

The Propmaster would report their work to the production designers and set
decorator and also work closely with people like the Director, Art Director, Set
Decorator, Prop Buyer, Location Manager and Construction Manager.

The Propmaster needs to have an understanding of film to be able to understand

what the director's vision is and get all the props required after reading the script.
The Propmaster would need to have some historical knowledge, skills in
craftsmanship and should be able to communicate with their team and other
important people. The prop master would need to have organisational skills to
manage things like budgets and schedules but also would need to be able to handle
large and heavy items.

Job Role: Floor Runner

Responsibilities: The floor-runner would need to do anything that is needed to
assist the production’s process, this means that the floor runner would run errands,
give people messages, look after the cast and the crew, make drinks and food, drive
and also deliver any kit needed. The floor runner would often be responsible for
transportation from the unit base to the set, this means that they have to get cast into
cars and the new into minibuses when they need to travel.

The Floor Runner would work with the first assistant director and are normally
supervised by the third assistant directors. The Floor Runner would be working with
everyone in the production because they are delivering messages to the entire
production team.

The Floor Runner would need to have skills in communication, multitasking and
being able to learn quickly. As well as those skills, the floor runner would need to
have a passion for film and TV and also be Reliable.
Post-Production

Job Role: Editor

Responsibilities: The Editor is the person who puts this film together as they come
from the set. Normally films aren’t shot in the order that the final outcome is shown in
so editors might end up working on scenes that are at the end of the film before the
beginning of the film. During post-production, the Editor and director will work
together to refine the assembly editing into the director’s cut. The director's cut will
have to be approved by the producers until the final cut is decided. After that point,
the editor will oversee the adding of the music and the sound.

The Editor will be working closely with the Director throughout the entire production,
this includes during the post production where the Director will keep refining the
edited version of the film until the Director and Producers are satisfied with the final
outcome. As well as the director and the Producer an Editor will also be working with
the First assistant editor, the Second and Third assistant editors and also edit
assistants. The Editor will also be working with a supervising sound editor, the
Dialogue Editor, the Colourist, the VFX supervisor and the Post-Production runner.

The editor will need skills in storytelling and communication to be able to understand
how they are going to get the film together and also how to work well with the editor
and the entire production team. The Editor would need to have visual awareness and
attention to detail to know if there are any mistakes and if the editing fits the style of
the film. The most important thing that the editor will need to know is how to use
editing software but also how to learn how to use new editing softwares so they can
professionally edit the film.

Job Role: Music Editor

Responsibilities: The Music Editor is responsible for all the music in the film, this
will include the soundtrack and any music that has been created by the composer.
The amount they will have to do in their role will decide on the type of production.
The Music Editor usually starts their work while the film is being edited. The Music
Editor would make different mixes, lay down the cracks and in the editing fit them
into the film. The Music Editor would attend all the recording sessions and help the
musicians achieve synchronisation with the movie.

The Music editor would have to work closely with the director to decide on what
purpose the music is going to hold and also find a style to suit the story. The Director
would also help the Music Editor to find points in the film where the music is
required. The Music Editors would work closely with a composer who is usually
appointed by the director. The music editor would also work with people in the
post-production house, the supervising sound editor and people like the music
supervisor and the music agent.
The music editor would need to have a good knowledge of music and also have a
wide understanding of film production, this will help them make and edit the music
that is needed for the film. The music editor would need to be good at Collaboration
so they can listen to the director and translate the director's vision into the music.
The Music Editor would also need to know how to use software like ProTools and
also know how to use editing and mixing software.

Job Role: Post-Production Supervisor

Responsibilities: The Post-Production supervisors will help the producer achie
everything that is needed throughout the editing process without going over their
budget. Post-Production supervisors help hire the staff that are needed during the
editing process like the sound editors and the title designers. The Post-Production
Supervisor would usually continue to work on the production until every element
needed for the film is finished. This would include things like the music and the
effects that are needed, this also allows the dialogue track to be replaced for
translated versions of the film.

The Post-Production Supervisor would work with the picture and the sound teams,
this especially includes the editor, first assistant editor and the surprising sound
editor. The Post-Production Supervisor would also be working with the
Post-Production coordinator, Bookings Coordinator, Receptionist, Junior Engineer or
Engineer Assistant, Library Assistant and the Post-Production Runner.

The Post-Production Supervisor needs to be good at understanding post-production,

budgeting, multi-tasking, problem-solving and communication. All these skills are
necessary for the Post-Production Supervisor to do their job and manage their team.

Sources:
https://www.screenskills.com/job-profiles/browse/film-and-tv-drama/
Entry Level Jobs

Job Role: Film Production Assistant

Details: Based in London. £25,000-£40,000 (Depending on experience)
Responsibilities:
We are looking for a Film Production Assistant to work closely with our clients UK
Executive Producer. This position offers a good opportunity for a motivated person
who aspires to grow alongside the company.

Key Responsibilities

● Working closely with the EP and assisting with daily tasks and running of the
office.
● Helping to coordinate freelancer staff for projects.
● Managing mailing list, contacts list
● Assisting with creating reels.
● Assisting with budgets
● Assisting with timings, call sheets and other production related documents.
● Organising travel : flights and hotel bookings.
● Attending industry networking and attendance events
Candidate Specification

● Ability to organise, set and implement priorities.

● Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills.
● Meticulous, honest and committed.
● Ideally someone who comes from a Film and Advertising Production
background.
(From -
https://uk.linkedin.com/jobs/view/film-production-assistant-at-tiptopjob-2951800745?
utm_campaign=google_jobs_apply&utm_source=google_jobs_apply&utm_medium=
organic)
Job Role: Production Runner
Details: Temporary Job, Based in London, £8 per hr.
Responsibilities:
This is an entry-level role into production and we are looking for enthusiastic
individuals who wish to embrace the opportunity of joining a hard working and
creative team, with the ability to learn quickly
• Work closely with our Production, Content Creators, Filmmakers and Casting team
to ensure a smooth running of our shoots
• Take initiative to manage supplies, props, arranging orders where necessary,
ensuring refreshments, stationery and general equipment are well-stocked
• Keep the studio, changing areas and other working locations tidy and well
presented
• Organise and manage meals for the team when required
• Manage deliveries for the production team
• Book cabs and couriers and travel requirements
• Drive the team to shoot locations
(From -
https://www.glassdoor.co.uk/Overview/Working-at-Freeda-Media-EI_IE3106515.11,2
3.htm)

Job Role: Production Assistant

Details: Based in Manchester, £20,000-£24,000 per year
Responsibilities:

In this role, you will support the agency Project Manager and Studio Manager with
their work across large projects which have touchpoints with every member of the
agency. You’ll get the chance to get involved across project planning, scheduling,
keep on top of any issues that may arise, keeping clients up to date, and ultimately
helping to deliver projects on schedule and to budget.

We are looking for someone with an interest in developing a career in a project

management or delivery role in a creative environment. Any experience of film or
video production, or animation would be quite useful, the role would suit someone
who has some entry level experience in the above disciplines, as long as you’re
highly organised and great at supporting senior colleagues.

Once you’re ready you’ll be able to take on smaller projects of your own, and they’ll
help develop your skills in Project Management, as well as knowledge of their
services across Design, Digital, Animation and Film. They are a friendly, close-knit
team who work from an impressive Manchester studio, which makes for a lovely
working environment.

(from -
https://uk.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=8a1c46c1d4c50b9d&from=tp-serp&tk=1fv0p
poc6t3f2800)
Job Role: Production Assistant
Details: Based in London, up to £30,000 per year
Responsibilities:
The Role will entail

● Booking resource and crew for shoots and post-production

● Produce and distribute call sheets
● Book production related travels (taxis, flights, accommodation)
● Support on shoots (carry kit, help set up, get lunch etc.)
● Clearing copyrights for music and library footage
● Organising meetings and schedules
● Booking and researching locations
● Organising filming permits
● General administrative support for the production team

Experience and skills

● 2-3 years’ experience gained in a runner/Production Assistant role in an

agency or production company environment
● Experience of booking crews worldwide (under guidance)
● Experience of scheduling talent and other resource (under guidance)
● Excellent written and verbal communication skills
● Excellent attention to detail
● Strong administrative and organisational skills
● Proactive approach, able to think outside of the box
● Ability to work well under pressure
● Willing to get involved in different work pieces
● Flexible approach: able to move between tasks while executing and
keeping track of each task in hand
● Good time management, self-motivation – but ability to flag and seek
guidance/input when unsure of matters
● An interest in film and television production
● Knowledge of Adobe Premiere – desirable

(from -
https://jobs.theguardian.com/job/8021063/production-assistant-film-moving-image-/)
Job Role: Junior Level Media Technician
Details: Based in London, £22,000 salary
Responsibilities:
As a Junior Level Media Technician, you will be primarily responsible for content
preparation and feature/trailer creation. You will be trained in the operation of all
relevant equipment such as DVS Clipster, Adobe Premiere, Vantage, and Pro Tools.
Additionally, training will cover the creation of digital cinema packages and
downstream deliverables - including feature films, trailers, promos, and episodic
programmes - ensuring picture, audio and subtitles are correct and adhere to
industry standards and technical specifications. Full QC training will enable you to
carry out the final QC of all content. You will also be expected to interact with
senior-level clients and staff in a professional and friendly manner at all times. You
will primarily report to the Director of Mastering Operations and Director of Mastering
Production.

From:
https://www.brightnetwork.co.uk/graduate-jobs/eikon-group/junior-level-media-techni
cian-uk-london-2022?utm_campaign=google_jobs_apply&utm_source=google_jobs_
apply&utm_medium=organic

Film Production Jobs

Job Role: Camera Operator

Details: Based in Manchester
Responsibilities: Your role as a Freelancer, will involve filming indoor and outdoor
video footage, in the desired format and ensuring that the footage is made available
same-day, to a member of our production team. Depending on the crew-size, you
may also be expected to set up and use basic lighting and record sound, in an
appropriate format.

Geographic locations will be discussed, prior to filming, however, you may be

expected to make reasonable adjustments on the day, for example, moving to a
different location, working slightly different hours or working overtime, depending on
the particular project.

From:
https://thinktankvideo.co.uk/jobs/camera-operator-jobs/?utm_campaign=google_jobs
_apply&utm_source=google_jobs_apply&utm_medium=organic
Job Role: Producer
Details: Based in London, Payed between £38,000-£38,000
Responsibilities: Day-to-day the Producer will work as part of a team, reporting to
our Executive Producer, ensuring delivery of high-quality film and animation projects
to agreed financial parameters. They will also help to manage and develop client
accounts. The role will require someone to work across two main areas:

1. Project delivery

● Manage all aspects of production across a number of projects at once and

have a willingness to be ‘hands on’ with content when required.
● Create / manage budgets to deliver agreed margins.
● Deliver projects on time, working with other members of the team, specialist
partners and freelance staff.
● Find / manage suitable creative and freelance staff, helping to ensure
availability of appropriate resource.
● Support the senior team in managing other employees / freelance staff,
providing encouragement and support to build a strong team ethos.

2. Client / business development

● Help to develop / prepare the practical aspects of proposals and pitches and
support in delivery.
● Work with the wider team to develop and maintain trusted relationships with
key clients, through engagement with the content of projects and interest in
their business / sector.
● Network within clients’ businesses and develop trusted relationships to
open-up opportunities.
● Identify opportunities to push the creative development of projects and the
potential for wider client development.
● Understand the competitive environment and stay abreast of current thinking
and trends in communication practice and media production.

From:
https://www.ifyoucouldjobs.com/jobs/1239305981?utm_campaign=google_jobs_appl
y&utm_source=google_jobs_apply&utm_medium=organic
Job Role: Production Coordinator
Details: Based in London
Responsibilities: You will be responsible for ensuring the artists understand their
schedule of work, relaying information back to the production and supervision team,
coordinating the flow of information and elements between artists and departments. This
role needs you to be efficient in maintaining databases with current element and shot
statuses, in coordinating dailies and taking detailed notes, and ensuring the flow of
materials to and from the client.
From:
https://creativepool.com/jobs/Production-Coordinator-job-in-London.142091?utm_ca
mpaign=google_jobs_apply&utm_source=google_jobs_apply&utm_medium=organic

Job Role: Physical Production Coordinator

Details: Based in Stockport
Responsibilities:
● Provide wrap guidelines at the end of principal photography and supervise
delivery of production files.
● Oversee projects on Scenechronize, ensure production documents are
secure, accurate, and distributed accordingly.
● Liaise with production and the studio on assets (wardrobe, props, etc)
during wrap and through distribution of the films.
● Update internal lists & contacts, oversee special projects and duties as
required by the department.
● Occasional script analysis required (breakdown sets, cast & location).
● Coordinate meetings and calls, travel, expense reports, and keep
production grids and files up-to-date for the Production Executive.
● Provide studio contacts and policies, procedure manuals, and start memos
for films supervised by Executive.
● Facilitate communication between production and the various studio
departments, and work directly with production to secure day-to-day
updates during set-up and production.
● Manage the processing of start paperwork (deal memos, timecards,
purchase orders, check requests, petty cash and other related forms),
before the production accountant is hired.
● Act as Production Coordinator on features in early prep, book travel for
filmmakers, schedule meetings with potential HODs, research locations and
stage availability.

From:
https://www.jobsvilla.net/job/disney-careers-51?utm_campaign=google_jobs_apply&
utm_source=google_jobs_apply&utm_medium=organic
Job Role: Senior Executive Assistant
Details: Based in London, £31,599 Estimate Per Year
Responsibilities:
● Managing busy travel schedules including travel and accommodation booking.
● Complex diary management
● First point of contact for external & internal network from UK but also
Internationally
● Organise meetings, including room bookings, agendas, reports, presentations
● Managing email in-box of senior management
● Being always business sensitive
● Full administrational support
● Raising purchase numbers and managing expenses
● Creating agenda's & taking minutes
● Working across MS packages
● Working with Excel, PowerPoint & Word.
● Managing seamless Itinerary for management travel in UK and International
● Ad hoc support to other EA's in the business.