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Assistant Director In Film Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Director of Product Marketing

Milpitas, CA · On-site

Job Summary & Responsibilities The Director of Product Marketing - Metrology leads the global ... The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in Film/OCD /scatterometry, strong understanding of ...

KE Camps

Summer Day Camp Assistant Director

Novato, CA · On-site

$925 - $1.0K/wk

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 ...

Onto

Director of Product Marketing

Milpitas, CA · On-site

Job Summary & Responsibilities The Director of Product Marketing - Metrology leads the global ... The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in Film/OCD /scatterometry, strong understanding of ...

KE Camps

Summer Day Camp Assistant Director

Novato, CA · On-site

$925 - $1.0K/wk

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 ...

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 ...

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All JobsIn Film JobsAssistant Director In Film JobsAssistant Director In Film Jobs in California

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 Jul 31, 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 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.

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 in film production, often starting in entry-level roles such as production assistant or intern. Developing strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills, along with knowledge of film sets and industry standards, is essential; some pursue relevant education or training in film production or related fields.

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.

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.

Is an assistant director a high position?

An assistant director in film is a key supporting role responsible for coordinating on set, managing schedules, and ensuring the director's vision is executed smoothly. While it is a respected position within the film industry, it is generally considered a mid-level role rather than a top executive position.

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 does an assistant director do on a film?

An assistant director (AD) on a film is responsible for organizing the shooting schedule, coordinating cast and crew, and ensuring the production stays on track. They manage daily operations on set, communicate between departments, and handle logistics to facilitate smooth filming. Strong organizational and communication skills are essential for 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,028 per year, or $34.1 per hour.

Assistant Professor of Film and Media Studies

Stanford Energy

Stanford, CA

$115K - $135K/yr

Other

Posted 20 days ago

Stanford University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

226th of 614 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Assistant Professor of Film and Media Studies

Apply now Work type: University Tenure Line
Location: Stanford University
Categories: School of Humanities & Sciences

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. 

Candidates should apply through Stanford Faculty Positions and submit

  • a cover letter

  • curriculum vitae 

  • a research and teaching statement (no more than three single-spaced pages)

A writing sample and letters of recommendation will be solicited at a later stage. 

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.

Advertised: 09 Jul 2026 9:00 AM Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close: 30 Sep 2026 11:55 PM Pacific Daylight Time

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