Career insights: What does a production assistant do?

I'm curious about the role of a production assistant. What are their day-to-day tasks like, and what skills should someone have to succeed in this job? Also, does this position offer a good entry point into the film or TV industry?

A production assistant (PA) plays a crucial role in film, TV, and other media productions by providing support to the production crew. It's often considered an entry-level position, serving as a stepping stone to higher roles in filmmaking or TV production.

PA's are responsible for various day-to-day tasks, from running errands (like transporting equipment or fetching items for the set) to assistance with technical tasks (like setting up props or helping the cinematography team). They might also be involved in coordinating schedules, organizing scripts, or managing extras. It's a role with a great deal of responsibility and requires a high level of adaptability, as the duties can vary significantly based on what's needed on any given day.

Skills needed to succeed as a PA include good communication skills as they'll be interacting with various departments, and time management skills as they'll need to handle various tasks simultaneously. They also need to be able to adapt quickly, as the tasks can vary from day to day. Employers also value attention to detail and a strong work ethic.

Starting as a production assistant is absolutely a good entry point into the industry. It gives a broad overview of how different departments function and the intricacies of a film or TV production, making it an excellent platform for building foundation skills. It also provides the opportunity to make industry connections, which can be useful for future advancement. Past production assistants have moved on to roles such as script supervisors, segment producers, and directors over time.

Overall, if you have a passion for film or TV production and are comfortable in a fast-paced and ever-changing work environment, the production assistant role could be an ideal start for a career in the industry.