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Documentary Film Internship Jobs in Rutherford, NJ

Documentary Film Internship information

See Rutherford, NJ salary details

$5

$14

$20

How much do documentary film internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for documentary film internship in Rutherford, NJ is $14.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $17.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a documentary film internship?

A Documentary Film Internship provides hands-on experience in the filmmaking process, focusing on real-world storytelling. Interns may assist with research, filming, editing, transcriptions, and production logistics. This role allows aspiring filmmakers to gain practical skills while working closely with industry professionals. Responsibilities vary based on the production stage, but the goal is to provide a well-rounded education in documentary filmmaking.

What does a documentary film intern do?

As a Documentary Film Intern, you can expect to support various stages of the filmmaking process, including research, logging footage, assisting on shoots, and basic video editing. You may help organize production schedules, transcribe interviews, and contribute creative input during brainstorming sessions. Interns often work closely with directors, producers, and editors, gaining valuable insights into both the creative and logistical aspects of documentary production. This hands-on exposure not only builds foundational skills but also helps you develop a professional network within the film industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed for a documentary film internship?

To thrive as a Documentary Film Intern, you should have a foundational understanding of film production, storytelling, and research, often supported by coursework or experience in media or communications. Familiarity with video editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro and basic camera operation is highly valuable. Strong communication, attention to detail, initiative, and the ability to work collaboratively are key soft skills for this role. These attributes are essential for contributing effectively to the production process, meeting project deadlines, and gaining hands-on experience in the field.

What job categories do people searching Documentary Film Internship jobs in Rutherford, NJ look for?

The top searched job categories for Documentary Film Internship jobs in Rutherford, NJ are:

What cities near Rutherford, NJ are hiring for Documentary Film Internship jobs?

Cities near Rutherford, NJ with the most Documentary Film Internship job openings:

Infographic showing various Documentary Film Internship job openings in Rutherford, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% Internship, 63% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,111 per year, or $15 per hour.

Associate Vertical Video Producer - Scientific American

LabX Media Group

Manhattan, NY • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

About Scientific American
Founded in 1845, Scientific American is the oldest continuously published magazine in the United States, a title it has earned by translating the frontiers of science and technology for curious, general readers for nearly 180 years. Our pages have featured contributions from Albert Einstein and Nikola Tesla, and work by more than 150 Nobel Prize winners has appeared in our issues over the years. Since our 1948 relaunch, we've held to a simple but demanding standard: the best stories on science come from the people doing the work. Today we reach more than 20 million people worldwide across our print, digital, and international editions, continuing a mission that has outlasted the telegraph, the radio, and the internet alike. Join us in helping the next generation understand the world through science.


The Role

Scientific American is looking for an Associate Video Producer to help bring our journalism to life on screen. You'll work alongside editors, reporters, and the video team to shape complex scientific ideas into clear, compelling, visually engaging stories; from short-form social clips to longer explainers and documentary-style features. This is a hands-on production role for someone who loves science, storytelling, and the craft of video in equal measure.


What You'll Do

  • Assist in the planning, shooting, and editing of video content across formats, including social-first clips, explainers, and longer-form features
  • Collaborate with editorial staff to translate written science journalism into visual narratives
  • Manage pre-production logistics, including scheduling, shot lists, and coordination with subjects and experts
  • Edit footage, motion graphics, and animations using industry-standard editing software
  • Source and organize b-roll, archival footage, and licensed media
  • Support live shoots, interviews, and remote productions as needed
  • Stay current on video trends across platforms (YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, etc.) and help adapt content strategy accordingly
  • Maintain organized project files, footage archives, and production documentation


What You'll Bring

  • 1–3 years of experience in video production, editing, or a related field (internships included)
  • Proficiency with editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro; familiarity with After Effects a plus
  • A strong eye for visual storytelling and pacing
  • Basic camera and lighting operation skills
  • Excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines
  • A genuine curiosity about science, technology, and how to make complex ideas accessible
  • Strong collaborative instincts and openness to feedback from editors and producers
  • A bachelor's degree in film, journalism, communications, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience


Nice to Have

  • Experience producing content for science, education, or news organizations
  • Familiarity with motion graphics or animation
  • Experience with social-first video formats and platform-specific best practices
  • Basic sound design or mixing skills


Why Join Us

You'll be part of a small, dedicated video team within a publication trusted by millions of readers worldwide. Your work will help translate cutting-edge research and discovery into stories that reach and resonate with a global audience, continuing a legacy of science journalism nearly 180 years in the making.


Help the world see what's next in science.


This position is primarily remote, but will require in-person work for New York-area shoots and recording sessions.


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Scientific American is an enthusiastic equal opportunity employer that values diversity, equity, and
inclusion. We celebrate diverse perspectives and are committed to fostering a culture where
differences are valued and innovation thrives.


Reasonable accommodation is available for qualified individuals with disabilities, upon request
when contacted for an interview. We thank all candidates for applying. Only those candidates
selected for an interview will be contacted.


Please note: Our hiring process does not involve the use of artificial intelligence (AI) for candidate
screening or decision-making. All evaluations are conducted by our human resources team and
hiring managers.