ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Documentary Film Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Commonpoint Queens

$20/hr

Collaborate on planning, shooting, and editing short documentaries and video content Create ... Assist in organizing film screenings, digital campaigns, and outreach events Maintain and care for ...

Commonpoint Queens

$16.50/hr

Collaborate on planning, shooting, and editing short documentaries and video content Create ... Assist in organizing film screenings, digital campaigns, and outreach events Maintain and care for ...

Distant Moon

Sr. Film Editor

Leesburg, VA · On-site

... work across documentary, commercial, and narrative projects while helping shape the creative ... Serve as a creative and technical resource for editors and assistant editors * Review edits and ...

Distant Moon

Film Editor

Leesburg, VA · On-site

Approximately 3 - 5+ years of professional editing experience across documentary, commercial ... While much of the role involves desk-based editorial work, team members may occasionally assist ...

IMAX

Intern, Alternative Content

Vista, CA · On-site

$21/hr

... * Assist with evaluating potential content opportunities, including audience appeal, market ... Strong interest in documentaries, film, live events, music, sports, gaming, or premium theatrical ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDocumentary Film Assistant Jobs

Documentary Film Assistant information

What are some common challenges faced by a Documentary Film Assistant, and how can they be managed effectively?

As a Documentary Film Assistant, you may frequently face challenges such as managing shifting production schedules, handling large volumes of footage, and coordinating communication between the director, crew, and external partners. Staying organized with detailed documentation and robust file management systems can help mitigate these issues. It's also important to develop strong multitasking abilities and remain adaptable, as priorities can change quickly in documentary production environments. Building good rapport with the team and being proactive in problem-solving will contribute to smoother workflows and successful project completion.

What is the difference between Documentary Film Assistant vs Camera Assistant?

AspectDocumentary Film AssistantCamera Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some technical knowledgeTechnical training or certification in camera operation
Work EnvironmentOn-location shoots, editing suites, production officesOn-set during filming, equipment handling
Industry UsageDocumentary and independent film productionsCommercial, film, and television productions
Common Search IntentRoles supporting documentary projectsRoles supporting camera operation and setup

The Documentary Film Assistant primarily supports various production tasks, including research, organization, and assisting during filming. In contrast, a Camera Assistant focuses on handling camera equipment, setting up shots, and maintaining camera gear. While both roles work closely on set, the Documentary Film Assistant has a broader support role, whereas the Camera Assistant specializes in camera operation support.

What does a Documentary Film Assistant do?

A Documentary Film Assistant supports the production process of documentary films by assisting with research, organizing logistics, managing equipment, and coordinating schedules. They may help with on-set tasks such as setting up cameras, taking notes, and handling releases. Additionally, they often assist in post-production with transcription, basic editing, and organizing footage. The role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a passion for documentary storytelling.

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

To thrive as a Documentary Film Assistant, you need a strong grasp of film production fundamentals, organizational skills, and a relevant degree or coursework in film or media studies. Familiarity with video editing software (such as Adobe Premiere Pro), camera equipment, and production scheduling tools is typically required. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively under tight deadlines are valuable soft skills. These abilities ensure efficient support for the production team and contribute to creating high-quality, compelling documentaries.
What cities are hiring for Documentary Film Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Documentary Film Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Documentary Film jobs? The most popular types of Documentary Film jobs are:
What states have the most Documentary Film Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Documentary Film Assistant jobs include:
Documentary Film Assistant jobs near you
Film Production Research & Archival Intern (Summer 2026 902249)

Film Production Research & Archival Intern (Summer 2026 902249)

Middlebury College

Middlebury, VT • On-site

$14.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 18 days ago

Middlebury College rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

308th of 535 rated colleges and universities

Job description

This position supports the pre-production of a short documentary film celebrating Projects for Peace, a program that funds student-led peacebuilding initiatives around the world. The intern will work closely with an award-winning filmmaker and the Projects for Peace team to develop a film that draws on existing footage, personal profiles, and the inspiring stories of current and past grantees. 

This is a Middlebury student Level A position paying $14.50 per hour.

Core Responsibilities:

The intern will play a key organizational and research role in laying the groundwork for production, including: 

  • Researching Projects for Peace reports and locating existing related footage online and in our records 
  • Collecting, organizing, and annotating footage and archival materials for easy access by the filmmaker and production team 
  • Creating and maintaining a thorough inventory of Projects for Peace films and media assets 
  • Managing spreadsheets and other tracking documents with careful attention to detail 
  • Distributing and collecting consent forms from participants 
  • Contributing to the development of story arcs and subject profiles for current and past grantees 

Requirements

  • Meticulous organizational skills and strong attention to detail 
  • Comfort with spreadsheet tools (Google Sheets, Excel, etc.) 
  • Interest in documentary filmmaking, journalism, or storytelling 
  • Experience with film production or media studies preferred 
  • Self-motivated and able to work independently on a remote/flexible schedule 

Growth Opportunity: There is a strong possibility of continuing this role into the academic year as an Assistant Producer, with expanded responsibilities in film development and editing. Project needs will be re-evaluated in the fall. 

Student Employment Eligibility:

Unless restricted by certain visa status, all students with an active status for the semester are eligible for jobs on campus.

Students on leave or withdrawn are not eligible to work in student employment positions until the semester in which they return. If you are currently withdrawn or on leave you are eligible to be employed in staff positions.

Some may be restricted due to financial aid status. International students (non-resident aliens) may not work off campus unless they have applied for and received work authorization from the United States government. (An F-1 visa does not give work authorization.) Off campus work study positions are available only to U.S. citizens on financial aid with a federal work study component.

Student are not eligible to work remotely from International locations.

Hour Limitations:

All student employees are limited to working no more than 20 hours per week in on campus jobs during the academic year (this includes exam periods). The only exception is when there is a full week when school is not in session. Specifically: February recess, Spring recess, and full weeks of December or summer recess. During these time periods only, students can work up to 40 hours per week. International Students: Visa restrictions prohibit international students from exceeding 20 hours of work per academic calendar week.

Apply