ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Short Film Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bolt Graphics, Inc.

Screenwriter (Contract)

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$68.19 - $97.12/hr

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

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 ...

LA 411

Executive Producer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$111.60 - $223.20/hr

John Funk Productions (ROSES ON THE VINE) is looking for an Executive Producer collaborator on the short film, AMERICAN FOLK STORY, written and to be directed by John Funk. EP will work with the team ...

Complex

Director, Branded Video

New York, NY · On-site

$140K - $150K/yr

Who You Are * 10+ years of experience in branded video and photo production as a film director ... Short-term/long-term disability and life insurance * Paid Parental leave * 401k with 4% match * Pet ...

Complex

Director, Branded Video

New York, NY · On-site

$140K - $150K/yr

Who You Are * 10+ years of experience in branded video and photo production as a film director ... Short-term/long-term disability and life insurance * Paid Parental leave * 401k with 4% match * Pet ...

Complex

Director, Branded Video

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$140 - $150/hr

Who You Are * 10+ years of experience in branded video and photo production as a film director ... Short-term/long-term disability and life insurance * Paid Parental leave * 401k with 4% match * Pet ...

Runway

Youtube Creator & Educator

New York, NY · On-site +1

$150K - $215K/yr

You'll show people how to make a real ad, cut a real short film or build a real production workflow ... You know how to shoot, light and direct, even simply * Advanced hands-on Runway experience and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsArts and Entertainment JobsEntertainment JobsStudio Producer JobsShort Film Director Jobs

Short Film Director information

See salary details

$29.5K

$76.9K

$119.5K

How much do short film director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a short film director?

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.

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.

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 industry connections. Typically, they may earn from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per project, with many working on a freelance basis or for low pay early in their careers. Income can increase with reputation, awards, and the ability to secure funding or distribution deals.

How to become a short film director?

To become a short film director, gain experience by creating your own projects or working on student or independent films, develop strong storytelling and technical skills, and build a portfolio. Knowledge of filmmaking tools like cameras and editing software, along with networking within the industry, can also help advance your career.
More about Short Film Director jobs

What cities are hiring for Short Film Director jobs?

Cities with the most Short Film Director job openings:

What states have the most Short Film Director jobs?

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

What job categories do people searching Short Film Director jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Short Film Director jobs are:

Short Film Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Short Film Director job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,855 per year, or $36.9 per hour.

Co-Producer for a short, No-Budget, Insomnia/Comedy film

LA 411

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$133K - $135K/yr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Co-Producer for a short, No-Budget, Insomnia/Comedy film

This is a Lo/No Deferred position in the field of Film / Motion Picture Production , located in Los Angeles, CA .


The employer is Sleep Awake Films.


Please note: clicking "Apply" will direct you to apply through ProductionHUB.


Bold, quirky comedy seeking a Co-Producer for a two or three day short film this JulyComedy isn't for everyone and working on tiny shoe-string budgets is not always ideal. But if the alternative is to not make something funny with a lot of heart then the show must go on.We are currently working on access to a great camera, a cinematographer and some locations. Looking to bring another resourceful person to our dynamic team. Everyone on board has a can do attitude and hopefully that's you as well.This is a fast-paced 5 page comedy, revolving around a neurotic protagonist who can't go to sleep! When they do go to sleep it's temporary so they live their life in a zombie sleepwalking state but with some slapstick comedy. It's less dialogue based and more visual to convey the comedy of operating on no sleep.We're in the process of assembling a crew with casting to follow. I'm looking for someone that can actually bring something to the film that will make this production easier. Whether it's a location, access to some more equipment or professionalsIt's a bold comedy so we need a bold co-producer who is up for the challenge. Unless our producer can ''find money'' there isn't any money to pay but maybe a dark funny short film would be considered an achievement. Everyone is donating time, equipment and themselves to make this festival bound short a reality. If you have access to any locations or anything please let us know in your message.Take a few minutes to Let us know why a challenge like this might interest you and what you can bring to this project. We're more interested in ability to help over experience as well as ability to read the entirety of this post.


About Sleep Awake Films

Sleep Awake Films is a bold and quirky comedy production company known for its unique storytelling and minimal dialogue. Our past short films have been featured in various film festivals, and we aim to expand our reach by participating in larger festivals and enhancing our internet presence, all while exploring themes of universal relatability to insomnia.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply