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Film Programming Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Freelance: Nuke - Chicago

Chicago, IL · On-site

$64.75 - $73/hr

... film projects * A solid reel showing a wide range of shots and a creative eye * Excellent ... Programming and coding experience and knowledge * Experience with Hiero, Shotgun, After effects ...

Associate Producer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

... and local programming. You'll play a key role in shaping our storytelling, ensuring clarity ... Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, TV/Film, or equivalent experience * Strong writing ...

Associate Producer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

... and local programming. You'll play a key role in shaping our storytelling, ensuring clarity ... Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, TV/Film, or equivalent experience * Strong writing ...

Showing results 41-60

Film Programming information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$25.8K

$91.6K

$153.5K

How much do film programming jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for film programming in Chicago, IL is $91,628.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,400.00 and $119,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a film programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Film Programmer, you need a deep knowledge of film history, genres, audience trends, and typically a background in film studies or related fields. Familiarity with film distribution platforms, scheduling software, and box office management systems is often required. Strong organizational skills, cultural sensitivity, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for curating engaging lineups and collaborating with filmmakers, venues, and audiences. These skills and qualities are essential for creating compelling film programs that attract diverse audiences and ensure successful screenings or festivals.

What is the difference between Film Programming vs Film Curation?

AspectFilm ProgrammingFilm Curation
CredentialsKnowledge of film history, programming experienceSimilar credentials, often with a focus on art or film studies
Work EnvironmentMovie theaters, film festivals, cultural institutionsMuseums, galleries, film festivals, cultural organizations
Industry UsageUsed in cinemas, festivals, and institutions to select films for screeningsUsed in arts and cultural sectors to select and interpret films for exhibitions

Film Programming and Film Curation share overlapping skills and environments, often involving selecting films for audiences. However, Film Programming typically focuses on scheduling and organizing screenings, while Film Curation emphasizes the artistic and thematic interpretation of films for exhibitions or collections.

What is film programming?

A film programmer supports the programming director. Your duties and responsibilities may include promoting a show or play, working to curate a film festival, or working in cinema archives. You select what an event or establishment plays for guests. You may also maintain and develop relationships with people in the film community and negotiate agreements with distributors and filmmakers to play their films or use them for advertising. You participate in the planning of audience attendance goals and the annual budget for an event or your employer.

What are some of the key challenges film programmers face when curating a diverse lineup for a festival or cinema?

Film programmers often encounter the challenge of balancing audience preferences with the desire to showcase innovative or underrepresented films. They must thoughtfully curate a mix of genres, cultures, and formats while considering licensing restrictions and budget constraints. Additionally, film programmers collaborate closely with distributors, filmmakers, and marketing teams to ensure that each selection aligns with the organization's mission and appeals to a broad audience. Flexibility and strong communication skills are essential to navigate last-minute changes and stakeholder expectations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Film Programming jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Film Programming jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Film Programming jobs in Chicago, IL? For Film Programming jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Film Programming jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Film Programming jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Film Programming job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $91,628 per year, or $44.1 per hour.

Freelance: Nuke - Chicago

Framestore

Chicago, IL • On-site

$64.75 - $73/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Framestore Integrated Advertising are always on the look-out for exceptional talent to join our award winning team. If you are a freelancer who would be interested in being kept on our books for future freelancing opportunities with our team then please submit your details to us - we would love to hear from you!
Our freelance opportunities will always be live on the website and we will get in touch with people who have submitted their details as and when opportunities arise. There is no need to apply here more than once - once you're in then you're in and you will be on our radar! In fact, the people who submit here will be our first point of call when we're looking.
So if you want to freelance on some of the most exciting and challenging advertising work out there then you know what to do - hit that 'apply' button right now!
  • Excellent working knowledge of and at least 1 year production experience with Nuke in commercials, TV, and/or film projects
  • A solid reel showing a wide range of shots and a creative eye
  • Excellent organization, communication and interpersonal skills
  • A proactive and collaborative work ethic
  • A strong eye for detail, composition, color and lighting
  • The ability to multitask, prioritize and problem solve
  • Eagerness to learn and self-motivated in pursuit of own professional development
  • Proven ability in working with clients in order to create their vision
  • An understanding of color space principles
  • Photoshop and Linux experience
  • Must have US work authorization

Desired Skills:
  • Knowledge of practical lighting for photography
  • A working knowledge of the overall VFX pipeline
  • Programming and coding experience and knowledge
  • Experience with Hiero, Shotgun, After effects, Final Cut, Flame is an advantage
  • Compositing experience in a commercial environment is desirable