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Assistant Director In Film Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

KE Camps

Summer Day Camp Assistant Director

Novato, CA · On-site

As an Assistant Director , you will be an active participant in all camp activities and will assist your Camp Director with a variety of daily tasks, all with the goal of creating a memorable and ...

The Learning Experience

Assistant Director

Riverside, CA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Associate's and/or Bachelor's degree with 12 credits in ECE, child development or related field * 3 ... The Assistant Director shall be responsible for assisting the Director with the operation of the ...

Kiddie Academy

Director Assistant

La Verne, CA · On-site

La Verne Type: Full-Time Kiddie Academy, a leader in educational child care, is seeking a dedicated Assistant Director to support the management of our academy. Join our team to make a difference in ...

Kiddie Academy

Director Assistant

La Verne, CA · On-site

La Verne Type: Full-Time Kiddie Academy, a leader in educational child care, is seeking a dedicated Assistant Director to support the management of our academy. Join our team to make a difference in ...

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Assistant Director In Film information

See California salary details

$24.7K

$71K

$145.1K

How much do assistant director in film jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant director in film in California is $71,028.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,900.00 and $88,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an assistant director do in film production?

An Assistant Director (AD) in film is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations on set, ensuring that filming runs smoothly and on schedule. The AD works closely with the director to communicate their vision to the cast and crew, organizes the shooting schedule, and coordinates logistics such as location management, safety, and call times. They also oversee the movement of actors and extras, make sure everyone is informed about their roles, and help maintain a safe and efficient working environment. Essentially, the AD is the key link between the director and the rest of the production team.

What are some common challenges assistant directors face during film production, and how can they effectively manage them?

Assistant Directors (ADs) often encounter challenges such as coordinating large crews, managing tight shooting schedules, and ensuring clear communication between departments. To handle these effectively, strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks are essential. ADs frequently use detailed call sheets, maintain constant communication with the director and department heads, and adapt quickly to changes on set. Proactive problem-solving and maintaining a calm demeanor under pressure are key to keeping the production running smoothly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant director in film, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Director in Film, you need strong organizational skills, a deep understanding of filmmaking processes, and relevant experience, often gained through film school or working on set. Familiarity with scheduling software like Movie Magic Scheduling, call sheet creation, and set safety protocols is essential. Exceptional communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities help manage crews, talent, and logistics under tight deadlines. These skills ensure smooth production flow, on-time schedules, and a safe, collaborative set environment.

What is the difference between Assistant Director In Film vs Production Coordinator?

AspectAssistant Director In FilmProduction Coordinator
CredentialsExperience in film production, often with a background in directing or production managementRelevant experience in production logistics, often with a background in administration or project management
Work EnvironmentOn set during filming, coordinating schedules and managing cast and crewOffice-based, coordinating logistics, permits, and communication between departments
Industry UsagePrimarily in film and television productionUsed across various media productions, including film, TV, and commercials

The Assistant Director In Film focuses on on-set management, scheduling, and overseeing daily filming activities. In contrast, the Production Coordinator handles logistical planning, permits, and communication behind the scenes. Both roles are essential in film production but differ in their primary responsibilities and work environments.

How much does an assistant director in film make?

An assistant director in film typically earns between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, project size, and location. Entry-level assistants may earn less, while experienced professionals working on major productions can earn higher salaries and additional benefits.

How to become an assistant director in films?

To become an assistant director in films, individuals typically gain experience by working in entry-level film production roles, such as production assistant or intern, and develop skills in organization, communication, and time management. Many assistant directors have backgrounds in film production, theater, or related fields, and some pursue relevant training or certifications in film production management. Building a strong network and understanding the filmmaking process are also important for advancing to this role.

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Director In Film jobs in California?

For Assistant Director In Film jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assistant Director In Film jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Director In Film jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Assistant Director In Film jobs?

Cities in California with the most Assistant Director In Film job openings:

Assistant Director In Film jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Director In Film job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,028 per year, or $34.1 per hour.

Tenure-Track Assistant Professor of Film and Media Studies

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

$115 - $135/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Stanford University, Department of Art & Art History Tenure-Track Assistant Professor of Film and Media Studies SCHOLAR OF AFRICAN/AFRO-DIASPORIC FILM AND MEDIA

The Program in Film and Media Studies in the Department of Art & Art History at Stanford University invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track Assistant Professor. We are seeking a scholar engaged in innovative research and teaching of moving-image arts (fiction and or documentary film, video, media installations and environments) who specializes in African or Afro-diasporic film/media cultures. Strong training in film history and theory is expected. We welcome applicants who study the intersection of cinema and other media, as well as those who incorporate creative media production into their scholarly practice. The successful candidate will develop a range of introductory level and topical courses for undergraduates, as well as graduate seminars related to their specific research interests.

Housed in a department with programs in art history, art practice, and documentary filmmaking, Stanford’s Program in Film and Media Studies has a dynamic and interdisciplinary vision of the field. We have a robust undergraduate program as well as a roster of PhD students specializing in film and media studies. The ideal applicant will bring to Stanford a program of current and future research in African or Afro-diasporic film and media, and attract PhD students of the highest caliber. The successful candidate must have a Ph.D. at the time of appointment and will be expected to teach and advise students at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. The position will be at the rank of Assistant Professor to begin in Fall 2027.

The salary range for this position is $115,133 – $135,388.

Stanford University has provided a pay range representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for the position upon hire. The pay offered to the selected candidate will be determined based on factors including (but not limited to) the qualifications of the selected candidate, budget availability, and internal equity.

Inquiries may be directed to Inge Klaps, Assistant Director of Finance and Operations, Department of Art & Art History at iklaps@stanford.edu.

The application process will close on September 30, 2026.

Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Stanford welcomes applications from all who would bring additional dimensions to the University’s research, teaching and clinical missions.

Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact disability.access@stanford.edu.

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