ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Background Extra Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lane County

Extra Help - Nutrition Services

Eugene, OR · On-site

$26.11/hr

Extra Help employees may work up to a maximum of 520 hours per fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026 ... If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsArts And Entertainment JobsEntertainment Production JobsActor JobsBackground Extra Jobs

Background Extra information

See salary details

$30K

$81.2K

$137K

How much do background extra jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for background extra in the United States is $81,206.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,500.00 and $101,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a background extra?

Background extras, also known as 'extras' or 'atmosphere actors,' are performers who appear in non-speaking roles in film, television, or commercial productions. They help create a realistic setting by filling in crowds or specific environments, such as restaurants, streets, or sporting events. Although they don't have dialogue or interact directly with main characters, their presence is essential for making scenes look authentic. Background extras are typically hired for a day or several days depending on the needs of the production.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a background extra?

To thrive as a Background Extra, reliability, punctuality, and the ability to follow directions are essential, with no formal qualifications typically required. Familiarity with basic on-set protocols and, occasionally, casting databases or scheduling apps can be helpful. Strong soft skills include patience, adaptability, and professionalism when working in diverse and changing environments. These qualities are crucial to ensure smooth productions, maintain continuity, and contribute positively to the set atmosphere.

What is the typical work schedule like for a background extra on film and television sets?

Background extras often have variable schedules, with workdays that can start early in the morning and last several hours, depending on the production's needs. Call times and locations may change frequently, and extras are usually expected to be flexible and available on short notice. While some days may be short, others can involve long hours on set with periods of waiting between takes. Being punctual, adaptable, and patient are important traits for success in this role.

What is the difference between Background Extra vs Background Actor?

AspectBackground ExtraBackground Actor
CredentialsNone required, but some experience or training can helpSame as Background Extra, often with additional acting skills
Work EnvironmentFilm and TV sets, eventsFilm, TV, commercials, sometimes live performances
Industry UsageCommon term for non-speaking crowd scenesOften used interchangeably, but can imply a slightly more acting-focused role

Background Extra and Background Actor are often used interchangeably in the industry. Both roles involve appearing in scenes without speaking, primarily to create a realistic environment. While 'Background Actor' may suggest a slightly more acting-oriented role, the responsibilities and work environments are similar. Both require minimal credentials and are common in film and television productions.

How much do background extras get paid?

Background extras typically earn between $100 and $200 per day, depending on the production, location, and experience. Pay rates can vary, with some productions offering higher rates for overnight or union work, and extras may receive additional compensation for specific roles or scenes.

What cities are hiring for Background Extra jobs?

Cities with the most Background Extra job openings:

What states have the most Background Extra jobs?

States with the most job openings for Background Extra jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Background Extra jobs?

For Background Extra jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Background Extra jobs near you
Infographic showing various Background Extra job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,206 per year, or $39 per hour.

Temporary Extra Worker

Center, TX

University of Pennsylvania
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees
Learn more about University of Pennsylvaniaexternal

$7.25 - $10/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 22 days ago

University Of Pennsylvania rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

University Overview

The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn's distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning. As an employer Penn has been consistently ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America's Best Large Employers.

Penn offers a unique working environment within the city of Philadelphia. The University is situated on a beautiful urban campus, with easy access to a range of educational, cultural, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and landmarks, lively cultural offerings, and wide variety of atmospheres, Philadelphia is the perfect place to call home for work and play.

Posted Job Title

Temporary Extra Worker

Job Profile Title

Temporary Employee - Non-Exempt

Job Description Summary

Temporary Employee - Non-Exempt
The Temporary Research Employee will support ongoing biomedical informatics and clinical research projects within the lab. Responsibilities will include assisting with literature reviews, data organization and quality checks, basic data analysis tasks, manuscript and presentation preparation, and other research-related activities as assigned. This position will gain exposure to research involving electronic health records, genomics, and clinical data science while working closely with members of the research team.

Job Description

Temporary Employee - Non-Exempt

Job Location - City, State

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Department / School

Perelman School of Medicine

Pay Range

$7.25 - $10.00 Hourly Rate

Salary offers are made based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, skills, and education as they directly relate to the requirements of the position, and in alignment with salary ranges based on external market data for the job's level. Internal organization and peer data at Penn are also considered.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin(including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics), citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any class protectedunder applicable federal, state or local law.

Special Requirements
A background check may be required after a conditional job offer is made. Consideration of the background check will be tailored to the requirements of the job.

University Benefits

  • Health and Life: Penn offers comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefitsto protect you and your family's health and welfare.
  • Retirement:Penn offers generous retirement plans to help you save for your future. Penn's Basic, Matching, and Supplemental retirement plans allow you to save for retirement on a pre-tax or Roth basis. Choose from a wide variety of investment options through TIAA and Vanguard.

Please note that benefit eligibility is determined/based on ACA guidelines.

What University Of Pennsylvania employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

University of Pennsylvania logo

About University of Pennsylvania

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn's distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning. As an employer Penn has been ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America's Best Employers By State in 2021.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Philadelphia, PA, US

Year founded

1740

View All University of Pennsylvania Jobs

Apply