ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Filmmaking Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Latino Film Institute

Filmmaking Mentor

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$31.80/hr

In collaboration with a co-mentor, YCP Mentors implement our rigorous filmmaking curriculum and guide students through the filmmaking process to produce high-quality short film content over the ...

Latino Film Institute

Filmmaking Mentor

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$31.80/hr

In collaboration with a co-mentor, YCP Mentors implement our rigorous filmmaking curriculum and guide students through the filmmaking process to produce high-quality short film content over the ...

StudioBinder

Motion Graphics Animator

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

Many of our videos break down filmmaking techniques, analyze scenes, or explain production workflows, and motion graphics play a key role in making those concepts visually engaging. You'll ...

StudioBinder

Video Editor

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$60 - $90/hr

What You'll Do As part of the video team, you'll edit educational videos that explore filmmaking techniques, storytelling principles, and production workflows. Your work will involve shaping footage ...

Flick

Senior/Staff Frontend Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$143K - $196K/yr

Flick is defining the future interface for AI native filmmaking, combining technology and artistry. They are seeking a founding front-end engineer to lead the development of their core experience ...

Art List

Content Creative Solutions Lead

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Strong background in filmmaking, creative technology, content production, or media innovation. * Excellent presentation and public speaking skills. * Comfortable presenting to executives, partners ...

NYFA

Cinematic AI Specialist

Burbank, CA · On-site

$55 - $75/hr

The program is designed for students and professionals working across filmmaking, content creation, advertising, media arts, marketing, publishing, and related creative industries. Instructors guide ...

NYFA

Cinematic AI Specialist

Burbank, CA · On-site +1

$55 - $75/hr

The program is designed for students and professionals working across filmmaking, content creation, advertising, media arts, marketing, publishing, and related creative industries. Instructors guide ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsFilmmaking JobsFilmmaking Jobs in California

Filmmaking information

See California salary details

$60.7K

$125.3K

How much do filmmaking jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for filmmaking in California is $121,934.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $122,400.00 and $124,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is filmmaking?

Filmmaking is the process of creating a film or movie, from the initial idea and scriptwriting through production, shooting, editing, and final distribution. It involves various stages such as pre-production (planning and preparation), production (actual filming), and post-production (editing, sound, and effects). Filmmaking is a collaborative art form that requires contributions from directors, producers, actors, cinematographers, editors, and many other professionals. The goal is to tell a compelling story visually and audibly to engage and entertain audiences.

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

To thrive as a Filmmaker, you need a strong grasp of storytelling, visual composition, and film production, often supported by a degree in film or media studies. Proficiency with editing software (such as Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro), cameras, and sound equipment is typically required. Creativity, leadership, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with diverse teams and realizing a creative vision. These skills enable filmmakers to deliver compelling stories, manage complex projects, and succeed in a highly competitive industry.

What are some common challenges filmmakers face when working on a film set, and how can they overcome them?

Filmmakers often encounter challenges such as tight budgets, unpredictable weather, and coordinating large teams on set. Effective communication and detailed planning are crucial to addressing these issues, as is the ability to adapt quickly when unexpected situations arise. Building strong relationships with crew members, fostering a collaborative environment, and maintaining a positive attitude can help filmmakers navigate hurdles and keep production running smoothly.

What is the difference between Filmmaking vs Video Production?

AspectFilmmakingVideo Production
CredentialsFilm school, filmmaking coursesVideo editing certifications, multimedia courses
Work EnvironmentFilm sets, studios, post-productionCorporate, events, online content
Industry UsageFilm industry, entertainmentAdvertising, corporate, online media

Filmmaking primarily focuses on creating artistic and narrative films, often involving storytelling, directing, and cinematography. Video production covers a broader range of content, including corporate videos, commercials, and online media, emphasizing quick turnaround and versatility. While both roles require technical skills and creative vision, filmmaking tends to be more artistic and narrative-driven, whereas video production is more commercial and diverse in content.

Does filmmaking pay well?

Filmmaking can offer a wide range of salaries depending on experience, location, and the type of projects. Entry-level roles often pay modestly, while experienced directors, producers, and cinematographers working on major productions can earn high salaries, sometimes exceeding six figures annually. Success in filmmaking often depends on skills, networking, and the ability to secure funding or distribution.

What careers are in filmmaking?

Careers in filmmaking include roles such as director, producer, screenwriter, cinematographer, editor, production designer, and sound engineer. These positions involve various skills like storytelling, technical knowledge of cameras and editing software, and often require collaboration on set or in post-production environments.

What jobs are there in filmmaking?

Jobs in filmmaking include roles such as director, producer, screenwriter, cinematographer, camera operator, editor, production designer, sound engineer, and lighting technician. These positions require skills in specific tools and techniques, often involving collaboration on set or in post-production to create a finished film or video project.

What are popular job titles related to Filmmaking jobs in California?

For Filmmaking jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Filmmaking jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Filmmaking jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Filmmaking jobs?

Cities in California with the most Filmmaking job openings:

Filmmaking jobs near you
Infographic showing various Filmmaking job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 37% Full Time, 57% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 41% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 58% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,934 per year, or $58.6 per hour.

Filmmaking Mentor

Latino Film Institute

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$31.80/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Youth Cinema Project Filmmaker Mentor - Part-Time

** This position is in Napa or Stockton, CA.** 

** This position begins in January 2026**


Job description

The Youth Cinema Project (YCP) is a project-based learning program that teaches film to youth in public schools during regular school and/or after school/summer school. YCP Mentors are professional filmmakers that teach 90-minute film classes, twice a week to students in 5th - 12th grades. In collaboration with a co-mentor, YCP Mentors implement our rigorous filmmaking curriculum and guide students through the filmmaking process to produce high-quality short film content over the course of the school year (August - June). YCP Mentors can expect to work 7-14 hours a week.

Minimum Requirements:

  • Candidates MUST have a minimum of 3 years working in the film industry as a producer, director or in any below-the-line position.

  • Candidates MUST have expertise in at least one specific area of filmmaking.

  • Candidates MUST have editing experience - not to a professional editors level but enough to edit simple short content.

  • Candidates MUST be comfortable using Google Suite

  • Travel (up to 50 miles) may be required. Mileage is reimbursed.

  • Candidates MUST have a Bachelors in film.

  • Candidates MUST be comfortable in a school environment teaching children.

  • Collaborate with other mentors and staff to create a positive and inclusive environment

  • Help youth develop life skills such as communication, problem-solving, and decision-making

  • Provide emotional support and encouragement to youth facing challenges

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Film School graduate, a plus

  • Previous teaching experience, a plus

  • Experience using DaVinci Resolve, Frame.io, Dropbox.

  • Advanced working knowledge of camera and audio equipment

  • Basic working knowledge of G&E equipment

  • Advanced working knowledge of film set logistics

  • Intermediate to Advanced working knowledge of film story structure

Duties:

  • Teach a year-long film program in the classroom during regular school

  • Attend all YCP trainings and professional development meetings (monthly)

  • Thoroughly prepare before each class with co-mentor utilizing provided curriculum

  • Complete, compile and submit program materials and program data in a timely manner

  • Responsible for all class deliverables (finished scripts, films, etc.)

  • Commitment to the mission statement and philosophy of the program