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1St Assistant Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Legendary Studio Shows (LSS) Universal, LLC.

$68 - $114/hr

Production Specific The First (1st) Assistant Director (AD) role ensures that the cast and crew are working on a schedule. They plan for that daily schedule, as well as the overall production ...

Legendary Studio Shows (LSS) Universal, LLC.

$65 - $120/hr

Production SpecificThe Second (2nd) Assistant Director (AD) role ensures that the 1st Assistant AD is fully supported by assisting cast, crew and schedules. They plan for that daily schedule, as well ...

focus features

Assistant Director

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Responsibilities First ADs' main duties are assisting the Director, co-ordinating all production ... They are also in charge of a department of other Assistant Directors and Runners. Overall, they ...

Focus Features

Assistant Director

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Responsibilities First ADs' main duties are assisting the Director, co-ordinating all production ... They are also in charge of a department of other Assistant Directors and Runners. Overall, they ...

Ecole 360 CDC

Assistant Director

Palatine, IL · On-site

We're looking for a passionate, organized, and people-first Assistant Director to help lead daily operations, support our teaching team, and strengthen the culture that makes our centers special. If ...

Methodist Hospital

Surgical First Assist

Cibolo, TX · On-site

He/she performs responsibilities of both the Surgical Technologist and the Surgical First Assistant based on department needs and as directed by the unit director or designee. The Surgical First ...

Methodist Hospital

Surgical First Assist

Schertz, TX · On-site

He/she performs responsibilities of both the Surgical Technologist and the Surgical First Assistant based on department needs and as directed by the unit director or designee. The Surgical First ...

Methodist Hospital

First Assist

Schertz, TX · On-site

He/she performs responsibilities of both the Surgical Technologist and the Surgical First Assistant based on department needs and as directed by the unit director or designee. The Surgical First ...

Methodist Hospital

First Assist

San Antonio, TX · On-site

He/she performs responsibilities of both the Surgical Technologist and the Surgical First Assistant based on department needs and as directed by the unit director or designee. The Surgical First ...

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How much do 1st assistant director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for 1st assistant director in the United States is $71,970.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,500.00 and $89,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a 1st assistant director?

1st Assistant Directors, often called 1st ADs, are key members of a film or television production team responsible for managing the set and ensuring that the production stays on schedule. They work closely with the director to plan and organize each day’s shooting, coordinate cast and crew, oversee safety, and handle logistics such as call sheets and daily schedules. The 1st AD acts as a central communication hub, helping to translate the director’s vision into actionable steps while maintaining efficiency and order on set.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 1st assistant director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 1st Assistant Director, you need strong organizational skills, leadership abilities, and in-depth knowledge of film production processes, often supported by experience on set and sometimes formal training in film or media. Proficiency with production scheduling software like Movie Magic Scheduling, call sheet generation tools, and familiarity with on-set safety protocols are typically required. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are the standout soft skills for this role. These capabilities are crucial for efficiently coordinating the cast and crew, maintaining the production schedule, and ensuring a safe, smooth-running set.

How does a 1st assistant director balance scheduling and on-set problem-solving during film production?

A 1st Assistant Director (1st AD) is responsible for creating and maintaining the production schedule while ensuring the set runs smoothly each day. This role requires quick thinking and adaptability, as unexpected issues—such as weather changes or technical delays—can disrupt plans. The 1st AD must collaborate closely with department heads, crew, and talent to adjust the schedule in real time, communicate changes effectively, and keep the production on track. Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage stress are key to successfully balancing these responsibilities.

What is the difference between 1st Assistant Director vs 2nd Assistant Director?

Aspect1st Assistant Director2nd Assistant Director
ResponsibilitiesOversees daily production, manages schedule, coordinates departmentsAssists the 1st AD, manages crowd control, supports scheduling
Required CredentialsExperience in film/TV production, organizational skillsSimilar experience, often less senior
Work EnvironmentOn set, high-pressure, fast-pacedOn set, supportive role, less decision-making authority
Industry UsageCommonly used in film and TV productionsOften paired with 1st AD, less prominent role

The 1st Assistant Director and 2nd Assistant Director work closely on set, with the 1st AD overseeing overall scheduling and coordination, while the 2nd AD supports crowd control and assists with daily operations. Both roles require production experience, but the 1st AD holds more responsibility and decision-making authority.

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1St Assistant Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various 1St Assistant Director job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,970 per year, or $34.6 per hour.

FIRST ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (AD)

Legendary Studio Shows (LSS) Universal, LLC.

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$68 - $114/hr

Other

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Seeking an experienced First Assistant AD to support the creation and development of LSS Universal originals for television and streaming platforms. Business Line: Television Production Production Type: Films | Show Series Position: Freelance Project Hire: Production Specific

The First (1st) Assistant Director (AD) role ensures that the cast and crew are working on a schedule. They plan for that daily schedule, as well as the overall production timeline. As such, the 1st AD must have enough knowledge about each department on a film set in order to ensure effective communications.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The AD must be able to:

Storyboards. The 1st AD first breaks the script down into storyboards that reflect how each scene will be shot.

Shooting schedule. Once the director signs off on the storyboards, the first AD creates an overall shooting schedule. The 1st AD clears the shooting schedule with the production manager, line producer, and crew department heads. The AD must ensure that all scenes are appropriately scheduled for when the applicable location, props, and cast are available.

Call sheets. Before each day of shooting, a call sheet is drawn up by the second AD in conjunction with the first AD. During production, it's the first AD's job to make sure that everyone is making their call times and the filming is progressing on schedule.

Calling the roll. During filming, one of the first assistant director's primary responsibilities is what's known as "calling the roll". Calling the roll is when the 1st AD cues the various department heads (including camera operator , key grip , and sound mixer ) to prepare for filming to start.

Liaise with the crew. The 1st AD serves as the go-between for the director and the rest of the crew. If something needs to be communicated in either direction, it generally goes through the first AD.

On-set diplomat. The first AD is also responsible for controlling discipline on the set. If someone is not doing their job effectively or there are conflicts on set, it is the first AD's job to resolve the situation. This may require taking disciplinary action or changing personnel when appropriate.

Safety. Safety is a priority on any film set and the first AD must also ensure that all health and safety standards are met. Each department has different precautions to ensure that cast and crew members aren't in danger. The first AD oversees each department and is ultimately responsible for ensuring that each department head is maintaining a safe workspace.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Previous experience as production assistants or runners

5+ years working in the video production/film industry as a cinematographer.

Ability to multi-task and delegate

Good sense for organization and planning

Strong attention to detail

Basic knowledge and understanding of all the various departments found on a film set.

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