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Entry Level Film Production Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

NPR

Petra Mayer Memorial Fellowship

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$30.05/hr

We also cover the many elements of culture-from television, film, music, books, the arts and the ... Production, diversity tracking and research for Books We Love, NPR's annual interactive reading ...

Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas

Kitchen Staff

Gaithersburg, MD

$15.25 - $19.75/hr

Keeps all kitchen areas stocked with dry products and prep materials and restock dry goods ... entry-level with career growth potential. ServSafe training certification preferred or must ...

Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas

Kitchen Staff

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$14 - $18/hr

... innovation, film, and hospitality worldwide. AS A CINÉPOLIS TEAM MEMBER, YOU ARE WHAT IS MOST ... dry products and prep materials and restock dry goods consistently throughout shift and at end of ...

All JobsFilm Production JobsEntry Level Film Production JobsEntry Level Film Production Jobs in Washington

Entry Level Film Production information

See Washington salary details

$12

$18

$23

How much do entry level film production jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level film production in Washington is $18.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.88 and $20.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical responsibilities and learning opportunities for someone in an entry level film production role?

In an entry level film production role, you can expect to assist with a wide variety of tasks, such as setting up equipment, helping with lighting and sound, managing production paperwork, and supporting various departments on set. This hands-on involvement provides a strong foundation for understanding the workflow of a film set and allows you to observe and learn from experienced crew members. Entry level positions often serve as a stepping stone to more specialized roles, so you'll have the chance to build industry connections and gain practical skills that are valuable for career advancement.

What are the qualifications to get an entry level film production job?

The qualifications to get an entry-level film production job depend on the type of work you do. To get a production assistant job on the crew side of production, you may only need a high school diploma or GED certificate and an interest working in the film industry. Advanced training, such as post-secondary courses in sound production, lighting, theater, and camera work may help improve opportunities, but they are not always required. Film scouts typically need their own vehicle. For creative-side production jobs, you may need a bachelor’s degree as well as excellent interpersonal communication skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level film production professional, and why are they important?

To thrive in Entry Level Film Production, you need a basic understanding of filmmaking processes, strong organizational skills, and often a relevant degree or coursework in film or media. Familiarity with cameras, lighting equipment, editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro, and production management tools is typically expected. Excellent communication, teamwork, and adaptability help you effectively support crew members and handle fast-paced, evolving tasks on set. These skills ensure smooth production workflows, contribute to creative problem-solving, and are essential for successfully launching a career in the film industry.

What is the difference between Entry Level Film Production vs Production Assistant?

AspectEntry Level Film ProductionProduction Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some may have film-related courseworkHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentFilm sets, studios, post-production facilitiesFilm sets, locations, offices
Employer & Industry UsageProduction companies, studios, freelance projectsMajority of film productions, TV shows, commercials
Common Search & ComparisonEntry Level Film Production vs Production Assistant

Entry Level Film Production roles typically involve basic tasks in various departments, often requiring some film-related education. Production Assistants (PAs) are entry-level workers supporting the entire production process, handling logistics, equipment, and general assistance. While both roles are foundational, PAs are more focused on on-set support, making them a common comparison for those starting in the industry.

How to get a job in entry level film production with no experience?

Entry level film production roles often require little to no experience and focus on skills such as teamwork, communication, and basic technical knowledge. Gaining relevant skills through online courses, volunteering on local productions, or assisting with student or independent projects can improve your chances; familiarity with equipment like cameras and editing software is also beneficial.

How to start a career in entry level film production?

To start a career in entry level film production, gain basic knowledge of filmmaking through online courses or workshops, and develop skills in operating equipment like cameras and lighting. Internships or assistant roles provide hands-on experience and networking opportunities, while familiarity with industry-standard tools such as Adobe Premiere or Final Cut Pro is beneficial.

What are the easiest jobs to get in the entry level film production industry?

Entry level film production jobs such as production assistant, intern, or set runner are typically the easiest to obtain, often requiring minimal experience and offering on-the-job training. These roles provide opportunities to learn industry skills, work on set, and network for future positions.
More about Entry Level Film Production jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Film Production jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Film Production jobs in Washington are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Film Production jobs in Washington?

For Entry Level Film Production jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Film Production jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Film Production jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Entry Level Film Production jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Entry Level Film Production job openings:

Entry Level Film Production jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Film Production job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,132 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Petra Mayer Memorial Fellowship

NPR

Washington, DC • Hybrid

$30.05/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Key responsibilities

  • Assist with production, research, and diversity tracking for Books We Love and the Book of the Day podcast.

  • Research and pull tape for reporters, lay up audio stories, and produce digital pages for stories and reviews.

  • Conduct research for critical projects and support digital production, including basic headline writing and social media promotion.

Job description

Intro To Position

NPR's Society & Culture Desk offers news, discovery and analysis of arts and culture to curious audiences on digital, radio, podcasts, social platforms and video. We also cover the many elements of culture-from television, film, music, books, the arts and the internet - to the moments when people come together for shared experiences large and small. We uplift voices and perspectives that enrich and deepen our understanding of today's cultural conversations. We provide original reporting, insight, context and signature curation initiatives that set NPR apart as a relevant journalism and cultural institution. 

The Petra Mayer Memorial Fellowship was established in memory of beloved NPR Books Editor Petra Mayer, by her parents, to support fellowships with NPR's Culture News Team.

The Petra Mayer Memorial Fellow will play a vital role in every aspect of our work, while also learning the core tenets of public service journalism, media ethics and multi-platform reporting and producing. Working alongside top professionals in the field, fellows are given real-world, hands-on responsibilities. 

The fellow will focus their term on Books We Love and the Book of the Day podcast, signature NPR products founded by Mayer. They will also assist reporters with research on critical stories, both long-term projects and breaking news. They will also learn the basics of production by researching and pulling tape, securing rights and excellent audio quality, and by learning to mix pieces featuring varied soundscapes. We will also look to our fellows for assistance in digital production, basic headline writing, creative selection of art and social media promotion.

Applications close on Monday, August 31st at 11:59 pm ET.

Responsibilities
  • Production, diversity tracking and research for Books We Love, NPR's annual interactive reading guide
  • Researching and pulling tape for reporters as well as laying up audio stories and pieces
  • Producing digital pages for our stories and reviews
  • Conducting research for critical projects

The above duties and responsibilities are not an exhaustive list of required responsibilities, duties and skills. Other duties may be assigned, and this job description can be modified at any time.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Basic research
  • Basic reporting and writing
  • Voracious appetite for books and pop culture
Preferred Skills
  • Basic radio production (ability to edit would be a bonus)
  • Intermediate level of social media proficiency
  • Strong time management 
Education Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent in work experience
Work Location & Requirements
  • Hybrid Permitted: This is a hybrid permitted role. The employee will be required to be in the office at the Washington, D.C. location at few days a week. The employee must also reside in Washington, D.C. / Maryland / Virginia.
Application Requirements 
  • Resume 
  • Cover Letter - we encourage you to showcase your appetite for books and pop culture!
Job Type
  • This is a temporary (20-week) full time position.
Compensation

Hourly Rate: The U.S. based anticipated hourly rate for this opportunity is $30.05 per hour. The range displayed reflects the minimum and maximum hourly rate NPR expects to provide for new hires for the position across all US locations.

NPR Benefits: NPR offers access to comprehensive benefits for employees and dependents. Regular, full-time employees scheduled to work 30 hours or more per week are eligible to enroll in NPR's benefits options. Benefits include access to health and wellness, paid time off, and financial well-being. Plan options include medical, dental, vision, life/ accidental death and dismemberment, long-term disability, short-term disability, and voluntary retirement savings to all eligible NPR employees. 

Does this sound like you? If so, we want to hear from you.

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