Want to break into film? Learn how to become a production assistant or runner with no experience. Get practical steps to start your entertainment career today.

A production assistant (PA) or runner is your best first job in film and television. These entry-level positions need zero experience and open doors to every department in the industry. You'll work long hours doing basic tasks, but you'll meet everyone and learn how productions actually work.

Most successful directors, producers, and crew members started as PAs. It's the fastest way to get on real sets and prove you're reliable.

What Production Assistants and Runners Actually Do #

Production assistants handle whatever the production needs that day. You might lock down a street corner so filming isn't interrupted. You could fetch coffee for the director or drive equipment between locations.

Runners do similar work but focus more on deliveries and pickups. You'll transport scripts, collect lunch orders, or move props. Both roles teach you film set etiquette and help you understand how different departments connect.

The work isn't glamorous. You'll stand in the cold, work 12-hour days, and do repetitive tasks. But you're getting paid to watch professionals work and building contacts who can hire you for better positions later.

How to Get Started With No Experience #

You don't need film school or connections to become a PA. Productions care about three things: Can you show up on time? Can you follow instructions? Do you have a good attitude?

Start by creating a simple resume that highlights reliability. Include any customer service jobs, volunteer work, or school projects where you showed responsibility. Even retail or restaurant experience proves you can handle pressure and long shifts.

Get a driver's license if you don't have one. Many PA jobs require you to drive, and having a clean driving record makes you more hireable. Productions also prefer PAs with their own reliable car, though this isn't always mandatory.

Where to Find Production Assistant Jobs #

Film job websites are your primary resource. Check ProductionHub, Staff Me Up, and Entertainment Careers daily. These sites show hundreds of PA positions. Set up email alerts so new postings reach you immediately.

Facebook groups for film workers in your city post jobs constantly. Search for "[Your City] Film Jobs" or "Production Assistants Network." Join multiple groups and check them every morning.

Local film commissions maintain crew lists and share job postings. Visit your state or city film commission website and add yourself to their database. They often send production companies looking for local crew directly to these lists.

Call production rental houses like camera shops or lighting companies. Ask if they know productions hiring PAs. Rental house staff talk to production coordinators daily and hear about jobs before they're posted publicly.

Tips That Make You Stand Out #

Apply fast when you see a PA job posted. Production coordinators hire the first reliable people who respond, not necessarily the most qualified. Send your application within two hours of a posting going live.

Your email should be three sentences maximum. State you're available, confirm you have reliable transportation, and mention any relevant experience. Production coordinators receive 50+ emails per position, so brevity wins.

When you get hired, show up 15 minutes early. Bring a small backpack with snacks, water, a phone charger, and a notebook. Dress in dark, comfortable clothes with good walking shoes. This simple preparation makes you look professional.

Never use your phone for personal reasons during work hours. Production coordinators notice PAs who scroll social media between tasks. Stay alert and ask, "What can I help with next?" when you finish an assignment. This eagerness gets you invited back to future projects.

What to Expect in Your First PA Jobs #

Your first few PA jobs might be one-day gigs or week-long projects. Daily rates typically range from $150 to $250 depending on your location and the production's budget. Big-budget films pay more than small independent projects.

Work comes in waves. You might work five days straight, then have nothing for two weeks. Save money during busy periods to cover slow times. Most PAs work multiple productions simultaneously or have flexible side jobs.

After you complete 5-10 PA jobs, you'll start getting repeat calls. Production coordinators who liked working with you will hire you again. This repeat work becomes your steady income while you learn what department interests you most.

Many PAs transition into specialized roles within 1-2 years. You might become an assistant director trainee, a camera assistant, or a production coordinator. The key is telling people what interests you and asking questions while you work.

Your Next Steps Starting Today #

Pick two job websites from the list above and create profiles tonight. Upload your resume and set your availability to, immediately available. Check these sites every morning before breakfast.

Join three Facebook film groups in your area this week. Introduce yourself in each group as a new PA seeking opportunities. Film people respect newcomers who show genuine enthusiasm.

Contact your local film commission and ask how to join their crew database. This single action can generate job offers without any additional effort from you.

Production assistant work is hard, but it's the proven path into film and television. Every professional you admire likely spent time carrying equipment and directing traffic. Start applying today, and you could be on set within two weeks.