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Production Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Research Innovations

Production Technician

Alexandria, VA

$18.50 - $23/hr

Production Technician Location: Alexandria Clearance Requirement : Candidate must have the ability ... You will also be expected to assist the lab manager with daily tasks and responsibilities. You will ...

Research Innovations

Production Technician

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$18.50 - $23/hr

Production Technician Location: Alexandria Clearance Requirement : Candidate must have the ability ... You will also be expected to assist the lab manager with daily tasks and responsibilities. You will ...

Research Innovations

Production Technician

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$18.50 - $23/hr

Production Technician Location: Alexandria Clearance Requirement : Candidate must have the ability ... You will also be expected to assist the lab manager with daily tasks and responsibilities. You will ...

E Logic

Salesforce Technical Project Manager

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$100K/yr

Oversee the deployment of updates and hotfixes to production, assist in design planning, and manage the migration of legacy applications to modern platforms. * Track and report performance metrics to ...

Life Care Services

Cook

Gainesville, VA

$20 - $23.50/hr

Demonstrate knowledge in all areas of cooking preparation and production. * Assist with serving of meals and ware washing as necessary. * Visit residents periodically to evaluate food service such as ...

New

Asbury Village

Cook

Gainesville, VA

$20 - $23.50/hr

Demonstrate knowledge in all areas of cooking preparation and production. * Assist with serving of meals and ware washing as necessary. * Visit residents periodically to evaluate food service such as ...

New

The Arlington of Naples

Cook

Gainesville, VA · On-site

$20 - $23.50/hr

Demonstrate knowledge in all areas of cooking preparation and production. * Assist with serving of meals and ware washing as necessary. * Visit residents periodically to evaluate food service such as ...

New

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Production Assistant information

See Reston, VA salary details

$11

$19

$31

How much do production assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for production assistant in Reston, VA is $19.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $20.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I be a production assistant without a degree?

Production assistants typically do not need a college degree and often gain experience through on-the-job training or internships. Employers value organizational skills, reliability, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment, with some roles requiring familiarity with equipment or software. Certifications are not usually mandatory but can enhance prospects.

What are Production Assistants?

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 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 qualifications do I need to be a production assistant?

Production assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and strong organizational and communication skills. Relevant experience or knowledge of production equipment and software can be beneficial, and flexibility with work hours is often required.

What does a production assistant do?

A production assistant supports film, television, or theater productions by performing tasks such as setting up equipment, assisting crew members, managing schedules, and handling administrative duties. They often work on set or in production offices and need good organizational skills and the ability to work under tight deadlines.

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 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.

How to become a production assistant with no experience?

To become a production assistant with no experience, start by gaining basic knowledge of film or TV production through online courses or workshops. Volunteer or seek entry-level opportunities on small projects to build skills, and demonstrate reliability, organization, and a willingness to learn. Networking and being proactive can also help you find opportunities in the industry.

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.

How much do production assistants make a month?

Production assistants typically earn between $1,500 and $3,000 per month, depending on the industry, location, experience, and whether they work full-time or part-time. Entry-level assistants may earn closer to the lower end, while those with more experience or specialized skills can earn higher wages.

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

Getting a job as a production assistant can be competitive, as it is an entry-level role that often requires little formal experience but benefits from strong organizational skills and flexibility. Candidates typically need to demonstrate reliability, a willingness to work long hours, and sometimes relevant certifications or knowledge of production tools. Networking and internships can also improve chances of securing a position.
More about Production Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Production jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Production jobs in Reston, VA are:
What job categories do people searching Production Assistant jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Production Assistant jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Production Assistant jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Production Assistant job openings:
Production Assistant jobs near you
Production Technician

Production Technician

Research Innovations

Alexandria, VA

$18.50 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Position Title: Production Technician 

Location: Alexandria

Clearance Requirement: Candidate must have the ability to obtain a U.S. security clearance

Employment type: Full Time

Research Innovations, Inc. (RII) is breaking through the big, slow status quo with transformative technology that fundamentally improves the world. We build advanced software solutions for government and military missions, applying agile development and user-centered design to solve complex, mission-critical problems.

RII is seeking an experienced Production Technician to join our SIGINT/EW team. We need a hands-on specialist with experience in the aerospace or defense industry who understands military standards and ruggedization. You will work directly in the lab alongside our engineering leads to prototype and produce hardware that solves unique and challenging problems. You will also be expected to assist the lab manager with daily tasks and responsibilities. 

You will be expected to support high-stakes manufacturing processes and uphold strict quality controls to support one of RII's most successful core values: Get s#it done.

WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING

 Complex Cable & Harness Assembly:

  • Build and inspect high-reliability cable assemblies, including MIL Spec connectors, RF cabling, and integrated data cables, ensuring strict adherence to applicable standards.

  • Perform shield termination on RF cables and verify continuity and isolation to prevent signal interference.

  • Execute water and dust proofing techniques for cable assemblies to ensure durability in harsh environments.

      Lab Collaboration & Production:

  • Collaborate daily in the lab with engineering and design teams to bridge the gap between initial prototypes and field-ready units.

  • Contribute to the ruggedization of sensitive hardware, ensuring components can withstand specific applications such as impact, heat, or salt water.

  • Assist in tracking incoming inventory and sourcing integration pieces to keep lab operations running smoothly.

      Quality Assurance & Standards:

  • Troubleshoot failures in assemblies and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

  • Conduct product testing to verify manufacturing quality, ensuring compliance with industry and safety standards.

  • Assist manage daily operations of the hardware development and prototyping lab environment.

  • Assist maintain organized workspaces, tools, equipment, and test areas to support engineering productivity.

  • Assist develop and enforce lab safety procedures, security protocols, and operational best practices.

  • Assist ensure lab readiness to support rapid prototyping, integration, and testing activities.

WHAT YOU HAVE DONE

  • Must have prior experience in Aerospace, Defense, Military Avionics, or Satellite/UAV manufacturing.

  • Experience in manufacturing small form factor electronics or cable assembly.

  • Strong familiarity with military standards (MIL-STD), ruggedization processes, and environmental protection (waterproofing, corrosion resistance).

  • Demonstrated ability to build complex wire harnesses and terminate RF connectors.

EVEN BETTER

  • A US security clearance.

  • Current or prior certification in IPC-J-STD-001 (Soldering) and IPC/WHMA-A-620 (Cable & Wire Harness).

  • Experience with a variety of prototyping equipment including 3D printing and Laser cutting.

  • Understanding of different materials and coatings for specific applications, such as impact or salt water corrosion.

  • Background in high reliability/low volume environments.

#LI-TC1

At RII, we believe that diversity in our workforce is critical to our success. We strive to hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds, not just because it's the right thing to do, but because it makes us stronger. We work to help your intellectual passions and creativity thrive. It's one of our core values: Let your geek flag fly.
 
We also offer all employees comprehensive benefits including: flexible work schedules, health insurance coverage, paid time off, 401k with a company match, paid parental leave, access to wellness programs and much more. You get this all from day one, and all paid for by RII.
 
It's all part of another of our core values: Stay human. It's why our comfortable and colorful offices such as our headquarters, include a community game room, pantry, massage chair, and an escape room, among other amenities. It's why we have community ambassadors and regular community events.
 
Research Innovations Incorporated is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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