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How much do film festival programming intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for film festival programming intern in the United States is $19.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $20.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a film festival programming intern do?

A Film Festival Programming Intern assists the programming team with tasks such as reviewing film submissions, helping to organize screening schedules, and communicating with filmmakers. They may also participate in the curation of films, research potential selections, and provide administrative support for festival events. This role offers valuable behind-the-scenes experience in film festival operations and is ideal for those interested in film curation, event planning, or the entertainment industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a film festival programming intern?

To thrive as a Film Festival Programming Intern, you should have a solid understanding of film theory, strong organizational skills, and a passion for cinema, often supported by relevant coursework or experience in film studies. Familiarity with database management systems, film submission platforms, and basic editing or screening tools is typically required. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate make someone stand out in this position. These skills are essential for helping curate compelling film lineups, coordinating logistics, and ensuring a seamless festival experience.

What is the difference between Film Festival Programming Intern vs Film Festival Programming Assistant?

AspectFilm Festival Programming InternFilm Festival Programming Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically enrolled in or recent graduate of film, media, or related programsOften similar, may require some experience in film or event coordination
Work EnvironmentInternship setting within festival offices, often part-time or seasonalFull-time or part-time staff role within festival organization
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in festivals to train and evaluate future professionalsUsed as a support role to assist programming staff in curation and scheduling

The main difference is that a Film Festival Programming Intern is typically a learning position for students or recent grads gaining experience, while a Film Festival Programming Assistant is a more experienced support role assisting with programming tasks. Interns often have limited responsibilities and are in a learning phase, whereas assistants handle more operational duties within the festival's programming team.

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What cities are hiring for Film Festival Programming Intern jobs? Cities with the most Film Festival Programming Intern job openings:
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Film Festival Programming Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Film Festival Programming Intern job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,174 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Festival Short Film Programmer

Sundance Institute

Los Angeles, CA

$22.25/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Temporary

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Festival Short Film Programmer is charged with evaluating and curating short film submissions for the Sundance Film Festival.

Working closely under the direction of a Senior Programmer, the Festival Short Film Programmer supports Sundance Institutes commitment to discovering and championing emerging filmmakers while upholding the artistic integrity of the Sundance Film Festival.

This temporary position works from Wednesday, September 2, 2026 through Friday, January 31, 2027. From September 2, 2026 through Sunday, November 15, 2026 the role is expected to work 20 hours per week. The position will work full-time hours (40 hours per week) from Monday November 16, 2026 through Sunday, November 22, 2026. The role will then work a part-time, variable hour schedule of 0 - 20 hours until Monday, January 18, 2027 when hours will increase to a full time schedule through the end of employment.

This position may work a flexible schedule and must be based within a commutable distance to Boulder, CO, Salt Lake City, UT, Los Angeles, CA, or New York, NY. Preference will be given to candidates in the greater Los Angeles, CA area. The role requires flexibility as well as travel to Institute locations, events, and meetings as needed.

Top priorities include but are not limited to

  • Watching and evaluating Sundance Film Festival short film submissions including providing coverage, writing notes assessing appropriateness for further consideration, and assigning a final rating to each film.

  • Making determinations regarding advancement, rejection, and second reviews based on artistic merit, originality, and alignment with programming goals.

  • Screening between 500 and 1000 short films in both the first as well as the second and final round of submissions.

  • Identifying strong short films as well as emerging talent to support.

  • Performing outreach to the global filmmaking community in order to solicit works of short film to be considered for selection into the Festival.

  • Actively participating in the selection of films and the structure of the Festival Short Film program.

  • Supporting with preparing written materials as needed, including proofreading copy and film still selection.

  • Supporting with notifying filmmakers of acceptance or rejection and collecting supporting materials for accepted filmmakers as needed.

  • Conducting film intros and facilitates film Q&A sessions at Festival

  • Traveling to other Festivals to participate on juries or panels may be required.

You have the following direct or transferable qualifications and skills:

  • 2 years of experience in programming and evaluating films.

  • Short film programming expertise including a keen curatorial instinct and a deep understanding of the film landscape.

  • Knowledge of U.S. and international marketplaces, film festivals, and various film communities operating across the country and globally

  • Exceptional communication skills, written, verbal, and interpersonal, essential for engaging with the public, filmmakers, industry professionals, donors, and internal teams.

  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy in recording, tracking, and sharing information.

  • Passion for independent film and a strong alignment with Sundance Institutes mission.

  • Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to set priorities and manage multiple demands effectively.

  • Legal authorization to work in the United States.

You will be successful in this role if you...

  • Work closely with the larger programming team to curate and deliver a well-balanced, diverse, and compelling short film program.

  • Thoroughly review 500-1000 short films ensuring the Programming team can meet key Festival program decision deadlines.

  • Deliver a well-balanced, diverse, and compelling short film program.

  • Actively contribute to the deliberation of up to 300 finalist films, offering insightful feedback that helps shape the Short Film program.

In addition to an hourly pay of $22.25, this position* is eligible for benefits & perks, highlights include:

  • Paid sick leave and Institute holidays

  • Employee assistance program

  • Employee Wellness Initiatives

  • Sundance Film Festival passes and benefits (varies each year)

*Applications open 7/31/2026 and will be accepted for at least one week

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