Job Description
Production assistants support producers in making film or TV programmes. You’ll work as part of a wider production team, including producers, researchers, and technical staff like camera crew and editors.
Entry Requirements
A degree isn’t essential but you'll need IT skills, initiative and enthusiasm. If you’ve got secretarial experience or qualifications this could give you an advantage.
A network of contacts and experience gained from student or community film, TV or radio projects, or work experience would be useful.
You could start work as a runner, junior assistant or secretary and work your way up.
Large broadcasters such as the BBC, ITV and Channel 4 offer work experience placements and graduate schemes.
You could get into this job through an apprenticeship.
Doing a college course in media production could help you get started, especially if it is one that gives you hands-on experience and allows you to develop your contacts.
BBC Academy has more information on work experience and becoming a production assistant.
Career Path and Progression
With experience, you could progress to production coordinator and production manager, or become a researcher or producer.
Related careers you may be interested in:
- Broadcast journalist
- DJ
- Media researcher
- Radio broadcast assistant
- TV or film assistant director
Required Skills
- organisational skills
- excellent attention to detail
- admin skills
- maths skills for handling budgets
- creativity when dealing with problems
- stamina and determination
Starting Salary
£16,000 to £21,000