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Entry Level Movie Studio Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

A strong work ethic and a positive mindset are critical for this entry-level role as well as being ... Movie has joined the studio library, now comprising three of the top 10 animated films of all time.

A strong work ethic and a positive mindset are critical for this entry-level role as well as being ... Movie has joined the studio library, now comprising three of the top 10 animated films of all time.

Entry Level Movie Studio information

See California salary details

$24.7K

$47.2K

$67.6K

How much do entry level movie studio jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level movie studio in California is $47,205.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $51,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level movie studio?

An entry-level movie studio job is a beginner position in the film industry, typically involving administrative, production, or support tasks. These roles can include production assistants, office assistants, interns, or runner positions, helping with on-set duties, office organization, or general studio tasks. They provide hands-on experience, networking opportunities, and a chance to learn industry fundamentals. Many professionals start in these roles to gain skills and move into higher-level positions.

What are the typical responsibilities of an entry level movie studio position?

In an entry-level movie studio role, you might assist with scheduling, help coordinate shoots, prepare production paperwork, and support producers and department heads with daily tasks. You could also be tasked with administrative functions such as answering phones, organizing files, tracking expenses, and facilitating internal communication among departments. It’s common to be involved in a variety of both creative and logistical tasks, which offers excellent exposure to how a studio operates. These roles are designed to build broad experience and provide valuable industry insights that can help you take on more specialized responsibilities as your career advances.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed for an entry level movie studio position?

To thrive in an entry-level movie studio role, you need basic knowledge of film production, strong organizational abilities, and a relevant degree or coursework in film, media, or communications. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as editing software (Adobe Premiere, Avid), office suites, and production management platforms is often expected. Strong communication, time management, and teamwork skills help you stand out, as you will interact with various departments and support multiple projects. These skills are essential for efficiently handling administrative and production tasks while building a foundation for future career growth in the industry.

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Movie Studio jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Movie Studio job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Movie Studio job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,205 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Finance Coordinator

Santa Monica, CA • On-site

Illumination
11 - 50 employees

$31 - $36/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Illumination is seeking a Finance Coordinator, this position will provide day-to-day accounting needs across different departments including overhead, development, and marketing. They will be instrumental in maintaining accurate accounting records and adhering to accepted procedures for all production payments. A strong work ethic and a positive mindset are critical for this entry-level role as well as being highly organized, detail-oriented, and collaborative.
Responsibilities
  • Work closely with Illumination's teams including Overhead, Development and Marketing to process union, non-union, and above-the-line payroll
  • Execute weekly accounts payable for production and studio teams such as, but not limited to paying invoices, setting up vendors, initiating, and finalizing all paperwork
  • Review and process employee expense reports; perform monthly reconciliation of corporate cards
  • Prepare journal entries with supporting backup, ensuring that correct account codes are utilized, and transactions are accurately explained and supported
  • Maintain digital filing of all AP and related documentation
  • Perform ad hoc financial analyses and miscellaneous projects as needed

Qualification
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance, or related field preferred
  • 1- 2 years of related accounting experience
  • Experience processing payroll through Entertainment Partners or similar is preferred but not required
  • Handles confidential information with a high degree of discretion and good judgment
  • IATSE Local 839 and Local 700 Experience is a plus
  • Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills
  • Detail-oriented with a high degree of accuracy
  • Experience working with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Adobe
  • Strong technical aptitude with the ability to quickly learn new software

The base salary range for this role is $31 - $36 per hour. We rely on market indicators to determine compensation and an offer will consider various factors including experience, qualifications, skills, and training. Our comprehensive and competitive benefits package includes medical, dental and vision insurance for employees and their family, 401(k), paid time off, tuition reimbursement and a variety of other perks.
About Illumination
Illumination, founded by Chris Meledandri in 2007, is one of the entertainment industry's leading producers of event-animated films, including Despicable Me-the most successful animated franchise in cinematic history-as well as Dr. Seuss' The Lorax, Dr. Seuss' The Grinch and The Secret Life of Pets and Sing films. The 2023 release of Illumination's The Super Mario Bros. Movie has joined the studio library, now comprising three of the top 10 animated films of all time. Illumination's iconic, beloved franchises-infused with memorable and distinct characters, global appeal and cultural relevance-have grossed more than $9 billion worldwide. Illumination has an exclusive financing and distribution partnership with Universal Pictures.
Illumination is based in Santa Monica, CA and its studio, Illumination Studios Paris, is located in the center of Paris, France.
Illumination's policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, gender identity or expression, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, membership in the uniformed services, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable law. Illumination will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with relevant legal requirements, including the City of Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative For Hiring Ordinance, where applicable.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.