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Short Film Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bolt Graphics

Screenwriter (Contract)

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$60/hr

You will be working closely with the CMO, Creative Director, and internal studio to write and develop a ~5 minute short film based on a story outline. This is a two (2) month contract role with ...

Latino Film Institute

Filmmaking Mentor

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$31.80/hr

... short film content over the course of the school year (August - June). YCP Mentors can expect to ... Candidates MUST have a minimum of 3 years working in the film industry as a producer, director or ...

Latino Film Institute

Filmmaking Mentor

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$31.80/hr

... short film content over the course of the school year (August - June). YCP Mentors can expect to ... Candidates MUST have a minimum of 3 years working in the film industry as a producer, director or ...

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Short Film Director information

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$29.5K

$76.9K

$119.5K

How much do short film director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for short film director in the United States is $76,855.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,500.00 and $90,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Short Film Director vs Film Producer?

AspectShort Film DirectorFilm Producer
Primary RoleOversees creative aspects, directs actors, and manages the artistic vision of a short film.Handles production logistics, funding, and overall project management of a short film.
Required SkillsCreative vision, directing, storytelling, leadershipBudgeting, organization, negotiation, project management
Work EnvironmentOn set during filming, collaborating with cast and crewOffice, meetings, overseeing production progress
Industry UsageCommonly credited as director in film creditsOften credited as producer, involved in financing and distribution

While both roles are essential in short film production, the Short Film Director focuses on the creative and artistic direction, whereas the Film Producer manages the logistical, financial, and organizational aspects. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the film industry.

How much do short film directors make?

Short film directors' earnings vary widely based on experience, project budget, and whether they work independently or for production companies. On average, they may earn from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per project, with some working on passion projects or unpaid early in their careers. Many also supplement income through other filmmaking activities or grants.

What are some common challenges Short Film Directors face when working with limited budgets and resources?

Short Film Directors often encounter the challenge of creating a compelling story with limited budgets and resources. This typically requires creative problem-solving, such as maximizing the use of available locations, working with a smaller crew, and sometimes managing multiple roles themselves. Directors must also prioritize essential elements like casting and equipment, while maintaining high production values. Flexibility and strong communication skills are crucial to ensure the vision is realized despite constraints.

Is a 40 minute film a short film?

In the context of a short film director, a film lasting 40 minutes is generally considered a feature-length film, as short films typically run up to 40 minutes. However, industry standards often define short films as those under 40 minutes, so a 40-minute film may be viewed as borderline or slightly longer than traditional short films. Filmmakers and festivals may have specific definitions based on duration, but most consider anything over 40 minutes as a feature.

What does a short film director do?

A short film director is responsible for overseeing the creative vision of a short film, guiding actors and crew, and making decisions on cinematography, editing, and storytelling. They collaborate with writers, producers, and editors to bring the script to life within a limited runtime, often working within a tight schedule and budget.

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

To thrive as a Short Film Director, you need a deep understanding of film language, storytelling, and visual composition, often backed by formal education or practical experience in filmmaking. Familiarity with editing software (such as Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro), camera equipment, and production management tools is essential. Strong leadership, creative vision, and excellent communication skills help guide the cast and crew effectively. These skills ensure that the director can bring their artistic vision to life while managing resources and collaborating efficiently on set.

How to become a short film director?

To become a short film director, gain experience by creating and directing short films, often starting with personal projects or student films. Developing skills in storytelling, cinematography, and editing, along with knowledge of film production tools, is essential. Building a portfolio and networking within the industry can help secure opportunities and advance your career.
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Short Film Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Short Film Director job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,855 per year, or $36.9 per hour.
Film Instructor / Filmmaking Mentor (Part-Time Teaching Artist)

Film Instructor / Filmmaking Mentor (Part-Time Teaching Artist)

Latino Film Institute

Napa, CA • On-site

$31.80/hr

Part-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Film Instructor / Filmmaking Mentor (Part-Time Teaching Artist)


Compensation: $31.80/hour + paid prep + mileage reimbursement

Schedule: Part-time, 7-19 hrs/week

Locations: Napa, CA


Keep one foot in the craft while shaping the next generation of filmmakers.

The Youth Cinema Project hires working filmmakers to teach project-based film classes to students in grades 5-12, guiding them from script to screen on a real short film over the school year. It’s flexible, part-time work that fits around freelance gigs, with paid prep time and a curriculum already built for you. You bring the craft; we bring the lesson plans.

What you’ll do

  • Teach two 90-minute film classes a week, partnered with a co-mentor

  • Guide students through the full filmmaking process, writing, shooting, and editing, to produce a finished short film

  • Teach from our ready-made, rigorous curriculum (no lesson planning from scratch)

  • Help young people find their voice and discover a path into film

Why filmmakers take this role

  • Flexible hours (avg. 7-14/week) that work around production schedules and freelance gigs

  • $31.80/hour, plus paid preparation time and paid training

  • Mileage reimbursed for any travel

  • Stay creatively engaged between projects, and give back to your community

What you’ll need

  • 3+ years working in the film industry, as a director, producer, or in any below-the-line role

  • Strong skills in at least one area of filmmaking

  • Enough editing ability to cut simple short content (DaVinci Resolve a plus)

  • Comfortable and confident working with kids in a school setting

  • Valid driver’s license, auto insurance, and reliable transportation (some travel up to 50 miles; mileage reimbursed). Comfortable using Google Workspace.

Nice to have (not required)

  • Film degree or film-school background

  • Previous teaching or mentoring experience

  • Knowledge of camera, audio, and G&E equipment; film story structure

  • Experience with Frame.io and Dropbox


How to apply

Send your résumé and a link to your reel or portfolio. That’s all to get started. Promising candidates will be asked for a few work samples and a short note about your interest in the next step.


Good to know

This position works directly with students and requires successful completion of a background check, Live Scan fingerprinting, and a TB screening prior to employment. The role involves extended periods of standing, frequent outdoor work, and the ability to safely lift and transport up to 50 pounds of filmmaking equipment. All required state-mandated trainings, including Child Abuse Mandated Reporter and Harassment Prevention training, are provided and compensated. Please note that participation in or completion of the pre-instruction Boot Camp training does not guarantee employment or placement as a YCP Mentor.


The Latino Film Institute Youth Cinema Project is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, religion, age, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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