01 / ProductionStarting out
Production Runner
Often day-rate work- How to get in
- Show reliability, driving ability where required and understanding of set etiquette.
- The honest bit
- It is an entry point, but work can be irregular and tasks are basic.
Career World · Creative industries
05Film and television
Productions need technical, creative, logistical, financial and administrative teams—from lighting and sound to locations, accounts and post-production.
See this world in action
Your first day on a film set
A guided tour of a working set that explains the people, departments and rules around production.
Reviewed example · ScreenSkillsOpen on YouTube ↗The team behind the world
5 jobs you may not have considered.
Pay is an indicative UK guide. Contracts, location, shifts and experience can change it considerably.
02 / LocationsStarting out
Location Assistant
£23k–£32k equivalent- How to get in
- Organisation, local research and practical problem-solving; short production credits help.
- The honest bit
- Early starts, travel and dealing respectfully with the public are common.
03 / Camera & lightingChanging career
Lighting Technician
£28k–£50k equivalent- How to get in
- Electrical or theatre-lighting experience can transfer; learn production safety and equipment.
- The honest bit
- The work is technical, physical and frequently freelance.
04 / FinanceChanging career
Production Accountant
£32k–£60k equivalent- How to get in
- Accounts experience followed by production-specific software and cost-reporting knowledge.
- The honest bit
- Deadlines move quickly and every department depends on accurate budgets.
05 / Post-productionProgressing
Editor
£30k–£65k equivalent- How to get in
- Build a strong showreel and credits using professional editing tools.
- The honest bit
- Creative judgement matters, but so do file management and intense deadlines.
A sensible route in
Learn the route before buying the course.
Requirements change between employers. Start with real adverts and recognised sector guidance, then pay for training only when the target role genuinely asks for it.
- 01Choose a department rather than aiming vaguely to work in film
- 02Build evidence with student, community or small productions
- 03Use recognised trainee programmes and job boards
- 04Keep a second income plan while building freelance credits
Keep exploring