Production Trainee

What does a production trainee do? The scope of the job changes depending on the size of the production, but one thing remains the same – the Production Trainee is always busy! They might start their day making sure the production office is well stocked with all the essential supplies needed for the day ahead, then do a tea and coffee run for the team, before moving on to copying essential paperwork like call sheets, sides and scripts – then distributing to the crew.

The Production Trainee will assist the Production Co-Ordinator in any way necessary, and keep the office organised and well maintained.

What’s a production trainee good at?

• Watching film and TV drama: having a passion for the genre and a love of the industry is a must!

• Learning by watching and asking: observe the Production Co-Ordinator and ask questions at appropriate moments

• Taking instruction: listen, do what’s asked, stay calm under pressure and be able to effectively prioritise

• Reliability: being on time and able to work well on your own when needed

• Communication: work well with crew across all departments

Who does a production trainee work with? Production Trainees/Assistants are the backbone of the production office! They are responsible for assisting the Production Co-Ordinator as well as other members of the team to ensure the smooth running of the wider production department.

Tools of the trade These items are useful to start with:

• Notebook

• Pens, Sharpies

• Bum bag / backpack

• Waterproof clothing / Walking boots or wellies

• Smartphone with maps (and a charger or power bank!)

Salary: £12.60 per hour (Real Living Wage, based on contracted hours)

Working Hours: 40 hours per week (prep/wrap weeks) / 60 hours per week (shoot weeks)

Holidays: 28 days per year (including statutory holidays) – pro rata based on contract length

Pension: Auto-enrolment pension scheme available (if eligible)

Main Duties and Responsibilities

The Production Trainee will support the day-to-day running of the production office and help the team with a wide range of tasks. This is a great opportunity to learn how a working TV production operates behind the scenes.

Duties may include:

• General office admin – helping with photocopying, scanning, completing paperwork (such as purchase orders and petty cash returns), and making sure the production office is kept tidy and organised.

• Answering phones – picking up the main production line, taking messages, and directing calls to the right people.

• Distributing paperwork – printing and handing out schedules, scripts, call sheets, risk assessments and other important documents to crew.

• Communicating with departments and suppliers – helping to arrange things like travel, shipping, or equipment by contacting relevant people inside and outside the company.

• Keeping the office stocked – making sure the team has everything they need, such as stationery, snacks, or supplies, and going on errands when needed.

• Running items to and from set – delivering important materials or equipment to set and back.

• Helping with hospitality – occasionally making tea or coffee and collecting lunch orders to support the team during busy times.

You’ll be a valued part of the team, and while some tasks may be small, they’re all important in keeping the production running smoothly. There will be lots of chances to learn and ask questions along the way.

Person Specification

• Enjoys watching film & TV and a general fascination of the creative industries

• Enthusiastic and motivated

• Responsible and keen to build upon existing skills and confidence

• Reliable – excellent timekeeper

• Good at communicating and working with people

• Flexible and an adaptable approach to the pace of work

• Excellent organisational skills

Essential Criteria: We’re looking for applicants who can show:

• A genuine interest in film and television – especially curiosity about how things are made behind the scenes.

• Motivation to learn – a positive attitude and a desire to build skills and confidence through hands-on experience.

• Good IT skills – especially using MS Word and Excel

• Reliability – someone who shows up on time, follows through on tasks, and works well in a team.

• Ability to follow instructions and stay calm under pressure – particularly when things get busy or plans change.

• Good communication skills – clear and professional in person, on the phone and in emails

• Strong organisational skills – able to keep track of tasks and manage time effectively

• Problem-solving attitude – able to deal with the unexpected and use initiative when needed

• Flexibility – willing to adapt when plans change or when working in different locations

• Physical stamina and practicality – comfortable being on your feet for extended periods and working outdoors at times. Willingness to work long production days (often 11–12 hours), with reasonable adjustments made where needed to support access and wellbeing.

• The right to work in the UK and a willingness to work across different locations in Northern Ireland.

Desirable Criteria: You don’t need these to apply, but it’s a bonus if you have:

• A full UK driving licence and access to a car for work (travel expenses may be supported if this isn’t possible).

• Experience staying organised – using notebooks, apps or any system to manage tasks, schedules or notes

• An interest in building a long-term career in film and TV, even if you’re just starting out.