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Short Film Acting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Our short, motivational videos focused on life, business, and relationships receive over 1 Billion ... actors and various locations * Background in digital media, cinematography, film studies or related ...

Our short, motivational videos focused on life, business, and relationships receive over 1 Billion ... actors and various locations * Background in digital media, cinematography, film studies or related ...

... of content, short-form and long-form video, podcasts, promos, and event recaps that uphold a ... Lead film and video projects from concept to final delivery, including pre-production planning ...

... of content, short-form and long-form video, podcasts, promos, and event recaps that uphold a ... Lead film and video projects from concept to final delivery, including pre-production planning ...

... of content, short-form and long-form video, podcasts, promos, and event recaps that uphold a ... Lead film and video projects from concept to final delivery, including pre-production planning ...

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Short Film Acting information

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$8

$40

$169

How much do short film acting jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for short film acting in the United States is $40.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $38.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is short film acting?

Short film acting involves performing as a character in a film that typically has a runtime of 40 minutes or less. Actors in short films are responsible for conveying a story and developing their roles within a limited timeframe, often requiring strong skills in expressing emotion and character quickly. Short film acting can be a great way for actors to gain experience, build their portfolios, and collaborate with emerging filmmakers. Many film festivals feature short films, making this a valuable platform for exposure and networking. Overall, short film acting is both an art form and a stepping stone for actors at various stages of their careers.

What is the difference between Short Film Acting vs Commercial Acting?

AspectShort Film ActingCommercial Acting
CredentialsBasic acting training, demo reelBasic acting training, demo reel
Work EnvironmentFilm sets, independent productionsStudio, on-location shoots for ads
Industry UsageFilm festivals, indie projectsAdvertising campaigns, TV commercials
Search & ComparisonOften compared for acting skills and versatilityOften compared for appearance and delivery

Short Film Acting involves performing in independent or student films, focusing on storytelling and character development. Commercial Acting centers on promoting products or services through advertisements, emphasizing a relatable or persuasive presence. While both require acting skills and basic training, the work environments and industry applications differ, with short film acting more artistic and experimental, and commercial acting more commercial and client-driven.

What are some common challenges actors face when working on short films compared to feature-length projects?

Actors in short films often need to develop their characters quickly and convey a compelling story within a limited timeframe, which can be challenging compared to feature-length projects. The pace of production is usually faster, with less rehearsal time and fewer takes, requiring actors to be adaptable and prepared. Additionally, short film sets may have smaller crews and budgets, so actors might take on additional responsibilities or work more collaboratively with the director and crew. Despite these challenges, short films offer valuable opportunities to showcase talent, experiment with diverse roles, and build a professional network.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a short film actor?

To thrive as a Short Film Actor, you need strong acting skills, script analysis abilities, and often some formal training in drama or performing arts. Familiarity with on-camera techniques, basic knowledge of film production processes, and experience with audition platforms or casting systems are highly beneficial. Adaptability, emotional intelligence, and effective collaboration set standout actors apart in this role. These skills ensure compelling performances, smooth teamwork on set, and successful navigation of the unique demands and fast pace of short film projects.

How to get into short film acting?

To get into short film acting, aspiring actors should build a portfolio with headshots and demo reels, gain experience through local theater or student films, and network with filmmakers and casting directors. Developing acting skills through classes and understanding the filmmaking process can also improve chances of landing roles in short films.

How to get actors for a short film?

To get actors for a short film, casting calls can be posted on online platforms such as casting websites, social media groups, or industry-specific forums. Attending local theater groups or acting classes can also help find suitable talent, and conducting auditions allows for assessing skills and fit for the roles.
More about Short Film Acting jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Short Film Acting jobs?

The most popular types of Short Film Acting jobs are:

What states have the most Short Film Acting jobs?

States with the most job openings for Short Film Acting jobs include:

Infographic showing various Short Film Acting job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $84,880 per year, or $40.8 per hour.

Department of Theatre, Television, & Film Lecturer Pool 2026-2027

California State University

San Diego, CA

$5.5K - $6.6K/mo

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


California State University rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

260th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Department of Theatre, Television, & Film Lecturer Pool 2026-2027

Apply now Job no: 556991
Work type: Instructional Faculty - Temporary/Lecturer
Location: San Diego
Categories: Unit 3 - CFA - California Faculty Association, Temporary, Part Time

Description

The School of Theatre, Television, and Film in the College of Professional at San Diego State University is accepting applications for their part-time lecturer pool.  

We welcome applications from prospective temporary faculty with expertise or experience in the following areas: Acting, Directing, Choreography, Musical Theatre, Scenic, Costume, Lighting, Sound and Projection Design, Playwrighting, Dramaturgy, Screenwriting, Cinematography, Film Production, History & Critical Studies in Theatre, Television, and Film, New Media Production (AR/VR), Editing

Temporary appointments may be either full- or part-time. Appointments from the part-time pool are often made just prior to the start of the academic term, so applicants must be available on very short notice. The Fall term begins mid-August and end late-December; the Spring term begins mid-January and ends mid-May.  Opportunities for teaching during the Summer Sessions may also be available. Initial appointments are typically one semester or one academic year, to be renewed contingent on satisfactory evaluations and continuing availability of work. Applications will remain in our applicant pool during the academic year you apply.

Qualifications

Criteria 

  • Graduate degree in any relevant areas of Theatre, Television, Film and New Media Production
  • Bachelor's degree with equivalent professional experience in area of expertise   
  • University teaching or relevant professional industry experience
  • Demonstrated currency in subject matter
Application Instructions

Prospective temporary faculty who would like their applications on file are invited to send the following items:

  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Contact information for three (3) professional references (new employees only)
  • Cover letter (new employees only)
  • Unofficial transcripts (new employees only)
  • Active links, portfolios and websites demonstrating professional work and experience

Initial rank and salary for lecturer faculty are based on professional experience and educational background and are determined by the hiring department. Most new appointees are hired at the Lecturer A or B rank and placed at the beginning of the range.

As of July 2024, the classification salary ranges for the respective ranks are:

Lecturer A: $5,507 - $6,677

Lecturer B: $6,221 - $13,224

Lecturer C: $6,825 - $14,523

Lecturer D: $8,593 - $15,211

Inquiries: For application inquiries, please email Director of Theatre, Television, & Film Stephen Brotebeck at sbrotebeck@sdsu.edu

Pursuant to Education Code 89521, the California State University requires that employment applicants disclose any final administrative decision or final judicial decision issued within the last seven years determining that the applicant committed sexual harassment.  This requirement applies specifically to applicants who meet the minimum qualifications for the Academic or Administrative position they are applying to.  Disclosures shall be provided to the San Diego State University Center for the Prevention of Harassment and Discrimination for further adjudication. Please contact cphd@sdsu.edu.

As part of its commitment to a safe and equitable "OneSDSU" community, SDSU requires that individuals seeking faculty employment provide at the time of application authorization to conduct background checks if they become a finalist for the position; applications without this authorization will be considered incomplete and not considered.

The person holding this position is considered a "mandated reporter" under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment.

A background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily before any candidate can be offered a position with the CSU. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the application status of applicants or continued employment of current CSU employees who apply for the position.

Equal Opportunity and Excellence in Education and Employment

All university programs and activities are open and available to all regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin. Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, San Diego State University (SDSU) provides equal opportunity in education and employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin. Our commitment to equal opportunity means ensuring that every student and employee has access to the resources and support they need to thrive and succeed in a university environment and in their communities. SDSU complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the California Equity in Higher Education Act, California's Proposition 209 (Art. I, Section 31 of the California Constitution), other applicable state and federal anti-discrimination laws, and CSU's Nondiscrimination Policy. We prohibit discriminatory preferential treatment, segregation based on race or any other protected status, and all forms of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in all university programs, policies, and practices. 

SDSU is a diverse community of individuals who represent many perspectives, beliefs and identities, committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and intellectually vibrant environment. We cultivate a culture of open dialogue, mutual respect, and belonging to support educational excellence and student success. Through academic programs, student organizations and activities, faculty initiatives, and community partnerships, we encourage meaningful engagement with diverse perspectives. As a higher education institution, we are dedicated to advancing knowledge and empowering individuals to reach their full potential by prioritizing inclusive curriculum development, faculty and staff training, student mentorship, and comprehensive support programs. At SDSU, excellence is built on merit, talent, diversity, accessibility, and equal opportunity for all.

Advertised: Apr 07 2026 Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close:

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About California State University

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California State University, Fresno is one of 23 campuses in the California State University System. The University's mission is to boldly educate and empower students for success through our values of Discovery, Diversity and Distinction. The current student population is more than 25,000, including a large percentage of students with diverse and culturally rich backgrounds. The University serves the San Joaquin Valley while maintaining deep involvement with the state, nation, and across the globe.

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Colleges, universities, and professional schools

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1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Long Beach, CA, US