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Production Assistant Jobs in Berkeley, CA (NOW HIRING)

Paula Leduc

Event Production Assistant

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$66K - $73K/yr

Event Production Assistant Employment Type: Exempt, Full-Time + Benefits Salary Range: $66k to $73k This position is an exceptional opportunity for a talented hospitality professional to join the ...

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Production Assistant information

See Berkeley, CA salary details

$13

$23

$37

How much do production assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for production assistant in Berkeley, CA is $23.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.85 and $24.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a production assistant?

Production Assistants (PAs) are entry-level professionals in the film, television, or video production industry who support the crew and help ensure that shoots run smoothly. Their responsibilities can vary widely, from running errands and handling paperwork to assisting with equipment setup and managing on-set logistics. PAs are crucial to the day-to-day operations of a production and often serve as a stepping stone to more specialized roles in the industry. The position requires flexibility, strong communication skills, and the ability to work well under pressure. Many people begin their entertainment careers as Production Assistants to gain experience and network within the industry.

What does a production assistant do?

In the film and television industry, a production assistant or PA handles a variety of tasks on set, from running errands to assisting with equipment setup and break down. As a PA, you perform many essential duties that don’t fall neatly into other crew members’ responsibilities, including making copies of the script, moving equipment, performing light research, helping camera operators set up shots, assisting visitors, and responding to requests by members of the cast and crew. It’s typical for PAs to take food or coffee orders for talent, clients, or other workers on set and facilitate their pickup or delivery. You also may be asked to fulfill special requests. You usually work on film or television sets or in studios, but the job is essentially the same regardless of the scale of the production.

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

To thrive as a Production Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of film or television production processes, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant coursework. Familiarity with scheduling software, walkie-talkie communication protocols, and general office tools is typically required. Outstanding communication, adaptability, and the ability to work well under pressure help set top candidates apart. These skills ensure smooth production operations, efficient problem-solving, and effective support for cast and crew on fast-paced sets.

What are some common challenges production assistants face on set, and how can they prepare for them?

Production Assistants (PAs) often encounter fast-paced environments, last-minute changes, and the need to juggle multiple tasks at once. It's common to be asked to assist with everything from setting up equipment to coordinating crew movements. To prepare, PAs should develop strong organizational and communication skills, stay adaptable, and always be proactive about anticipating the needs of the team. Building good relationships with crew members and maintaining a positive attitude even under pressure can make these challenges manageable and help you stand out for future opportunities.

What is the difference between Production Assistant vs Production Coordinator?

AspectProduction AssistantProduction Coordinator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer related courseworkHigh school diploma; often a bachelor's degree in film, media, or related field
Work EnvironmentOn set, assisting with daily tasks, supporting crewOffice and on-set, coordinating schedules and logistics
Employer & Industry UsageFilm, TV, commercials, theaterFilm, TV, commercials, event production
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both roles support production teams, a Production Assistant primarily handles on-set tasks and general support, whereas a Production Coordinator manages scheduling, logistics, and communication to ensure smooth operations throughout the project.

Can I be a production assistant without a degree?

Production assistants typically do not need a college degree to start in the role, as employers often prioritize relevant skills, such as organization, communication, and familiarity with production equipment. Entry-level positions may require some on-the-job training, and having a high school diploma or equivalent is usually sufficient. Certifications in safety or equipment operation can be beneficial but are not mandatory.

How hard is it to get a job as a production assistant?

Getting a job as a production assistant can be competitive, especially in popular media markets, but entry-level positions are often available for those with basic organizational skills and a willingness to work long hours. Many employers value relevant experience, such as internships or related coursework, and some may require a valid driver's license or the ability to work flexible schedules.

How much can you make as a production assistant?

Production assistants typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, with entry-level positions often paying around minimum wage and experienced assistants earning higher rates. Salaries can vary based on location, industry, and the complexity of the production, and some may receive overtime pay or per diems for travel and long hours.
More about Production Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Production jobs in Berkeley, CA?

The most popular types of Production jobs in Berkeley, CA are:

What job categories do people searching Production Assistant jobs in Berkeley, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Production Assistant jobs in Berkeley, CA are:

What cities near Berkeley, CA are hiring for Production Assistant jobs?

Cities near Berkeley, CA with the most Production Assistant job openings:

Production Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Production Assistant job openings in Berkeley, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,039 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Freelance Production Assistant

Paramount

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$18.67/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Paramount Senior Living rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

NEWS PRODUCTION ASSISTANT
Position OverviewThis entry-level role provides essential clerical and technical support to the news production team. Freelance Production Assistants operate the teleprompter during live newscasts, manage and organize archival materials, and assist with daily newsroom communications. Successful candidates show drive, curiosity, and enthusiasm for journalism and local news while upholding high standards of professionalism.
Responsibilities
  • Operate teleprompter and assist technical staff during live or recorded broadcasts
  • Locate, catalogue, and retrieve file video and archival material
  • Answer phones, relay information, and handle general office tasks
  • Run newsroom errands and assist with set logistics as needed

Cross-Training OpportunitiesCross-training and advancement opportunities may be available for freelance Production Assistants who excel but are not guaranteed parts of this position. Our goal is to help freelance Production Assistants expand their skills and grow into other newsroom roles through cross-training. Those who consistently demonstrate drive, initiative, and enthusiasm will be considered for advancement opportunities as they develop professionally.
  • Writing news copy for broadcast and digital platforms
  • Managing and creating posts for social media accounts
  • Editing video and audio for broadcast
  • Operating technical production equipment
  • Supporting the Assignment Desk: story research, pitching, and newsroom coordination

Desired Qualities
  • Demonstrated enthusiasm, initiative, and excitement for new opportunities
  • Strong curiosity about news, journalism, and broadcast media
  • Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving abilities
  • Ability to work independently or as part of a motivated team
  • Willingness to work flexible hours - including mornings, nights, and weekends
  • Reliability, punctuality, and professionalism are essential

CBS News and Stations, brings together the power of CBS News, 28 owned television stations in 17 major U.S. markets, the CBS News Streaming Network, CBS News Streaming local platforms, local websites and cbsnews.com, under one umbrella. CBS News and Stations is home to the nation's #1 news program 60 MINUTES, the CBS News Streaming Network, the first 24/7 digital streaming news network, the award-winning broadcasts CBS MORNINGS, CBS SATURDAY MORNING, the CBS EVENING NEWS WITH NORAH O'DONNELL, CBS SUNDAY MORNING, CBS WEEKEND EVENING NEWS, 48 HOURS and FACE THE NATION WITH MARGARET BRENNAN. CBS News and Stations provides news and information for the CBS Television Network, CBSNews.com, CBS News Radio and podcasts, Paramount +, all digital platforms, and the CBS News Streaming Network, the premier 24/7 anchored streaming news service that is available free to everyone with access to the internet. The CBS News Streaming Network is the destination for breaking news, live events, original reporting and storytelling, and programs from CBS News and Stations' top anchors and correspondents working locally, nationally and around the globe. CBS News' streaming services, across national and local, amassed more than 1.01 billion streams in 2021. Launched in November 2014 as CBSN, the CBS News Streaming Network is available on 30 digital platforms and apps, as well as CBSNews.com and Paramount+. The service is available live in 91 countries. CBS News and Stations is dedicated to providing the highest quality journalism under standards it pioneered and continues to set in today's digital age. CBS News earns more prestigious journalism awards than any other broadcast news division.
Organizations that wish to receive job vacancy notices from this posting's television station should contact sf_recruitingsupport@paramount.com.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Hiring Salary Range: $18.67 - 18.67.
The hiring salary range for this position applies to New York, California, Colorado, Washington state, and most other geographies. Starting pay for the successful applicant depends on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training, and education. The benefits available for this position include medical, dental, vision, 401(k) plan, life insurance coverage, disability benefits, tuition assistance program and PTO or, if applicable, as otherwise dictated by the appropriate Collective Bargaining Agreement. ((cust_payTransSTIP)) ((cust_payTransSalesInc))
https://www.paramount.com/careers/benefits
Paramount is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) including disability/vet.
At Paramount, the spirit of inclusion feeds into everything that we do, on-screen and off. From the programming and movies we create to employee benefits/programs and social impact outreach initiatives, we believe that opportunity, access, resources and rewards should be available to and for the benefit of all. Paramount is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status, marital status, disability, gender identity, gender expression, and Veteran status.
If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access https://www.paramount.com/careers as a result of your disability. You can request reasonable accommodations by calling 212.846.5500 or by sending an email to paramountaccommodations@paramount.com. Only messages left for this purpose will be returned.

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