Production Assistants

A film set is an exciting environment, but the production assistant may be treated poorly there. With a positive attitude, energy, and a desire to be useful, PAs will earn respect from the production department.

There are unwritten rules that should be followed. A production assistant is expected be respectful and well behaved on location. This means that production assistants should be quiet, stay out of the way, and avoid touching sets and equipment. If a production assistant behaves as a guest, but remains helpful when needed, he or she will earn a good reputation that will be valuable for his or her career advancement.

The work environment will vary; PAs may be required on location, or may work mainly in the studio. Production assistants must be willing to work long, demanding hours. Film productions are typically off schedule and over budget, requiring dedication from all those involved. Production assistants and other crewmembers often go days without seeing family members.