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Movie Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pixar

Senior Research Scientist

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$219K - $284K/yr

Conduct world-class research in computer graphics and AI to develop innovative solutions for Pixar and Disney movie productions. This role bridges the gap between academic research and practical ...

iMemories

Research Admin

Scottsdale, AZ

$17/hr

With its innovative online video experience and fully automated personal home movies conversion ... Comparing and researching videotape content to see if we can improve on quality. * Analyze notes in ...

Dolby

Sr Data Researcher -Agentic Systems

Atlanta, GA · On-site

As a member of the Dolby team, you'll see and hear the results of your work everywhere, from movie ... Our researchers have a broad range of expertise related to computer science and electrical ...

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Movie Researcher information

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$30K

$113.1K

$164.5K

How much do movie researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for movie researcher in the United States is $113,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $154,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Movie Researcher, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in film studies, media, or a related field. Familiarity with film databases, archival research methods, and citation management tools is typically required. Exceptional communication, critical thinking, and organizational skills help you synthesize information and present findings clearly. These skills ensure accurate, thorough research that supports the creative and factual needs of film productions.

What is the difference between Movie Researcher vs Film Archivist?

AspectMovie ResearcherFilm Archivist
Required CredentialsDegree in film studies, media, or related fieldDegree in library science, archival studies, or related field
Work EnvironmentFilm sets, production offices, research librariesArchives, museums, libraries, preservation facilities
Industry UsageUsed during pre-production for research and fact-checkingUsed for preservation, cataloging, and maintaining film collections

While both roles involve working with films, a Movie Researcher focuses on gathering information and sourcing materials for productions, whereas a Film Archivist specializes in preserving and organizing film collections for long-term access. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and employer expectations in the film industry.

What does a Movie Researcher do?

A Movie Researcher is responsible for gathering and verifying factual information to support film production, ensuring accuracy in scripts, settings, costumes, and historical details. They work closely with directors, writers, and production designers to provide background research on various topics, such as specific time periods, locations, or professions depicted in a film. Their work helps create a more authentic and believable experience for the audience. Movie Researchers may use libraries, archives, interviews, and online resources to compile their findings.

How does a Movie Researcher typically collaborate with directors and screenwriters during film development?

Movie Researchers play a crucial role in supporting directors and screenwriters by providing them with accurate historical, cultural, or technical information relevant to the script and storyline. They work closely with creative teams to ensure authenticity, suggesting credible sources, verifying facts, and sometimes even helping with visual references or dialogue accuracy. Effective communication and adaptability are key, as researchers often need to translate complex information into actionable insights for the creative team. This collaboration enhances the film's realism and helps avoid common pitfalls related to anachronisms or inaccuracies.
More about Movie Researcher jobs
What cities are hiring for Movie Researcher jobs? Cities with the most Movie Researcher job openings:
What states have the most Movie Researcher jobs? States with the most job openings for Movie Researcher jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Movie Researcher jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Movie Researcher jobs are:
Movie Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Movie Researcher job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Senior Research Scientist

Pixar

Emeryville, CA • On-site

$219K - $284K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Conduct world-class research in computer graphics and AI to develop innovative solutions for Pixar and Disney movie productions. This role bridges the gap between academic research and practical studio application.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Research & Innovation: Identify and solve complex graphics/AI problems; design, develop, and deploy scalable algorithms and prototype software.

  • Production Collaboration: Work directly with artists, technical directors, and engineers to address real-world production challenges under tight deadlines.

  • Leadership & Publication: Lead research projects, publish results in peer-reviewed journals (e.g., SIGGRAPH), and maintain Pixar's presence in the global research community.

  • Strategy: Stay current on emerging technologies and provide recommendations for studio adoption.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Demonstrated leadership in the computer graphics or closely related research communities

  • Ph.D. in Computer Science, AI, or a related field

  • 7+ years of post-graduate research experience in academia or industry R&D

  • Sustained history of original research and publications in top-tier forums (ACM SIGGRAPH, CVPR, NeurIPS) and recognized leadership in the field

  • Deep expertise in at least one area of graphics/AI, solid coding skills, and the ability to analyze cutting-edge technologies

SKILLS:

  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills across diverse roles (artists to executives)

  • Ability to manage multiple tasks independently and within a team

  • Strong presentation and technical writing capabilities

  • Commitment to diverse perspectives and collaborative innovation

The hiring range for this position in Emeryville is $219,980.00 to $284,680.00 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors.

Pixar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We know our storytelling is at its best when we include, celebrate and embrace difference. We strive to be a diverse workforce that is representative of our audiences, and where all can thrive and belong. We are committed to building a team that includes and respects a variety of voices, identities, backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Pixar participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

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