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Documentary Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Examination of default drawing and direct pay presentations (includes first or second examination ... Issuance and maintenance of Documentary Letters of credit * Drafting (redlining) technical terms ...

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Documentary Director information

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$24.5K

$78.7K

$184K

How much do documentary director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for documentary director in the United States is $78,672.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,500.00 and $101,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a documentary director?

To become a documentary director, gain experience in filmmaking or journalism, develop strong storytelling skills, and build a portfolio of completed projects. Many directors have a background in film production, media studies, or related fields, and often work their way up through assistant roles or independent projects before leading documentaries.

What does a Documentary Director do?

A Documentary Director is responsible for overseeing the creative and technical aspects of making a documentary film. They develop the concept, plan the narrative structure, conduct interviews, and guide the crew during filming to capture real-life stories and events. The director works closely with editors in post-production to shape the footage into a compelling and truthful narrative. Their goal is to inform, educate, or inspire audiences by presenting factual content in an engaging way.

What is the difference between Documentary Director vs Film Director?

AspectDocumentary DirectorFilm Director
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in film, journalism, or related fields; experience in documentary productionSimilar educational background; often with experience in narrative or feature films
Work EnvironmentWorks on real-life subjects, often in field settings or studiosWorks on scripted or fictional projects, often in studio or set environments
Industry UsageCommon in documentary filmmaking, educational, and non-profit sectorsPrevalent in commercial, entertainment, and narrative film industries

While both roles require strong storytelling skills and similar educational backgrounds, a Documentary Director focuses on real-life subjects and factual storytelling, often working in field environments. In contrast, a Film Director typically works on scripted, fictional projects in studio settings. Both roles demand creativity, leadership, and technical knowledge, but their content and work settings differ significantly.

What jobs make $500,000 a year?

In California, high-paying jobs that can reach or exceed $500,000 annually include specialized roles such as senior corporate executives, successful entrepreneurs, top-tier surgeons, and certain technology executives like CTOs or CIOs. These positions often require advanced skills, extensive experience, and leadership responsibilities, and may involve bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing that contribute to total compensation.

What are some common challenges faced by Documentary Directors during the production process?

Documentary Directors often encounter challenges such as securing access to subjects, balancing creative vision with factual accuracy, and adapting to unpredictable real-life events. Coordinating schedules with participants and crew, managing limited budgets, and ensuring ethical storytelling are also common hurdles. Collaboration with editors, producers, and cinematographers is key to navigating these challenges and delivering a compelling final product.

What kind of jobs in media bring in $150,000 a year?

In media, high-paying roles such as senior documentary directors, executive producers, and media executives can earn $150,000 or more annually. These positions typically require extensive experience, strong leadership skills, and often involve managing large projects or teams, with compensation influenced by the organization and geographic location.

How much does a documentary director make?

A documentary director's salary varies widely based on experience, project scope, and funding, but typically ranges from $30,000 to over $100,000 per project. Established directors working on major productions or with significant industry recognition can earn higher compensation, often supplemented by grants, sponsorships, or distribution deals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Documentary Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Documentary Director, you need a solid understanding of storytelling, visual composition, and film production, typically supported by a background in film, media studies, or related experience. Familiarity with editing software (such as Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro), camera equipment, and sound recording tools is essential. Strong communication, leadership, and adaptability are critical soft skills for managing crews, interviewing subjects, and navigating unpredictable filming environments. These skills and qualities are vital for creating compelling, authentic documentaries that engage audiences and effectively convey real-world stories.
More about Documentary Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Documentary Director jobs? Cities with the most Documentary Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Documentary jobs? The most popular types of Documentary jobs are:
What states have the most Documentary Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Documentary Director jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Documentary Director jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Documentary Director jobs are:
Infographic showing various Documentary Director job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,672 per year, or $37.8 per hour.

Associate Director of Program

Chicken & Egg Films

Brooklyn, NY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Chicken & Egg Films is seeking an Associate Director of Program (“ADP”) to join our team at a pivotal moment as the organization prepares to launch a new five-year Strategic Plan in 2027. 

The ADP is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing, planning, and implementing a portfolio of core programs and partnerships. Currently, this includes managing the year-long (Egg)celerator Lab program for first- and second-time filmmakers. It also includes overseeing Project: Hatched (a grant program that supports impact campaigns), AlumNest programming, and partnership initiatives, in collaboration with the Industry & Artist Development Manager. The programs, initiatives, and direct reports under this role’s purview may evolve in alignment with organizational priorities and strategic direction. 

Working closely with the Program Director and team, the ADP will contribute to C&E’s programmatic strategy, manage budgets, and ensure that programs are responsive to filmmakers’ needs and meet organizational objectives. A collaborative leader and people manager, the ADP will supervise staff, foster community across C&E's broader network, support donor stewardship, and serve as an ambassador for C&E in the documentary field. 

This position reports to the Program Director and works closely with all members of the six-person program team. 

 

Key Responsibilities 

Programs

  • Collaborate with the Program Director to shape program strategy, set priorities, and identify opportunities for innovation and deeper impact across programs and initiatives
  • Oversee and manage the (Egg)celerator Lab program for first- and second-time filmmakers 
  • Oversee Project: Hatched, AlumNest, and partnership initiatives, in close collaboration with the Industry & Artist Development Manager
  • Provide filmmakers with bespoke support for their projects and careers, such as strategic business planning, feedback on film cuts, advice on funding, distribution and sales, and making connections for them in the industry, with donors and beyond 
  • Ensure all programs under purview are grounded in C&E's Theory of Change and commitments to DEIA, anti-racism, and gender equity; evaluate and adapt strategy, as needed, to deliver excellence and meet objectives 
  • Participate in the application review and deliberation processes across programs, as needed
  • Manage budget development and monitoring for programs under purview

Team Collaboration 

  • Supervise staff and manage consultant relationships, with flexibility as team structure evolves; provide guidance and professional development to direct reports
  • Advise on strategy and support stewardship for existing/prospective donors for programs under purview, such as by providing program materials and data, reviewing proposals, and engaging with those donors and prospects
  • Identify prospective donors and work with Development team to cultivate and steward donor leads for C&E 
  • Identify and create opportunities to meaningfully engage C&E staff and Board members with supported filmmakers and programmatic work, fostering community and connection
  • Develop and provide informational training on film financing, forums, markets, and other industry-related topics for all staff

Field Engagement 

  • Build and maintain meaningful relationships with filmmakers, funders, and industry stakeholders to expand networks and grow opportunities for C&E and its supported filmmakers
  • Identify, research, and track prospective filmmakers and projects at festivals, forums, and markets
  • Stay informed on industry trends, challenges, and opportunities that may impact and shape C&E's work
  • Elevate the visibility and impact of C&E and supported filmmakers by representing C&E as a speaker and participant at industry events, including panels, markets, festivals, and conferences

Qualifications 

Minimum Requirements 

6+ years of mid- to senior-level experience directly relevant to the responsibilities of this position 

Documentary Film 

  • Experience implementing programs, such as grants, film labs, creative mentorship, training programs, and/or workshops to expand filmmakers’ skills and knowledge 
  • An understanding of the full lifespan of a documentary film, from research and development, through production, distribution and impact campaigns  
  • A keen eye for reviewing, selecting, and providing feedback on a range of film projects for grants, programs and/or film festivals 
  • A robust network of the many players in the field, such as producers, funders, investors, distributors, pitch markets, and film festivals, both in the US and globally
  • Experience representing an organization as a speaker on panels, film festivals, pitch forums, and/or other public events  

People Management  

  • 2+ years of supervisory experience with proven track record developing and empowering high-performing staff 

Leadership 

  • Leads by example; models intra- and inter-team collaboration and knowledge sharing
  • Proactive and creative problem solver who demonstrates resourcefulness to find solutions that achieve desired outcomes while demonstrating a capacity to learn and self-evaluate
  • Excellent project manager with a keen attention to detail, accuracy and time management ability
  • Experienced strategist who is comfortable making and communicating decisions

Emotional and Relational Intelligence 

  • Outstanding listening skills with ability to manage expectations; superior ability to read the room and nimbly adjust tone and approach 
  • Employs practices to de-escalate conflict; is respectful, inclusive, values diversity, highly collaborative
  • Exercises a high degree of confidentiality and discretion, professionalism, integrity, and ethics
 

Desired Qualifications (not required) 

  • Knowledge of the current documentary funding landscape, including production and funding models in the US and globally
  • Experience mentoring and coaching filmmakers 
  • Proficiency with Salesforce, Asana, SurveyMonkey, and Airtable 

What Else You Should Know

Deadline: Applications will be accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis with a priority for applications submitted by April 27. Early submission of your application is recommended. First round interviews are anticipated in late April/early May with the goal to fill the position by early July.

Location and Hybrid Work Policy: This position is based in Brooklyn, New York. We have a hybrid work schedule with a minimum of two days a week in our Brooklyn office. The position will require occasional domestic and/or international travel, as well as the flexibility to work evenings and weekends from time to time. 

Compensation: Chicken & Egg Films offers a salary informed by the organization’s Total Rewards Philosophy and Practices, which is grounded in market data. The salary range for this full-time position is $107,000-$120,000. Actual salary from this range will be based on the candidate’s experience and qualifications. 

Benefits: 100% employer paid health, dental, and vision insurance, plus life and short and long-term disability insurances. Flexible spending accounts for medical, dependent care, transit, and parking expenses. A 403(b) plan with a matching employer contribution. Annually 15 vacation days (20 at the two-year mark), 10 safe and sick leave days, and 4 personal days. The office is closed for 10 holidays, in addition to December 24 - 31, and offers a Summer Fridays schedule. Professional development opportunities and home office stipends offered. Employees are eligible for a paid 6-week sabbatical after every 5 years of continuous employment.

Sponsorship: This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the US.

Equal Employment Opportunity: Chicken & Egg Films is an equal opportunity employer. As such, we strongly encourage and seek applications from all backgrounds, including but not limited to women and gender-expansive individuals, people of color, bilingual and multicultural individuals, people with working class backgrounds, people with disabilities, as well as members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

We take great pride in providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, genetics, protected veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, political affiliation, marital or familial status, arrest or conviction record, status as a victim of domestic violence, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

E-Verify: We participate in the E-Verify Program. https://everify.uscis.gov

Applicants with Disabilities: Reasonable accommodation will be made so that qualified applicants with disabilities may participate in the application process. Please reach out to access@chickeneggfilms.org with any requests.

Hiring companies: We will not respond to emails about this position.

How to Apply

Complete the form on our career page to submit your cover letter and résumé. 

In your cover letter, please explain how your skills and experiences meet the qualifications of this position. In addition, we invite you to respond to the following prompt: Why is being C&E’s Associate Director of Programs the next best step for you professionally? 


 

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