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What does an Assistant Director do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

An assistant director is a person who helps the director with the making of a film.

Assistant Director job duties include:

  • Assist the director in all aspects of pre-production, production, and post-production
  • Work with the director to develop the overall vision and tone for the project
  • Help the director to cast the film, hire crew, and schedule shoots
  • Oversee day-to-day operations on set and troubleshoot any issues that arise
  • Ensure that the production stays on schedule and within budget
  • Help to coordinate and manage all logistics for the shoot
  • Keep track of all paperwork and legal documents related to the production
  • Serve as a liaison between the director and other departments (e.g. production, post-production, marketing, etc.)
  • Handle any additional duties as assigned by the director

Assistant Director Job Requirements

An Assistant Director typically needs a bachelor's degree in a field such as business administration, human resources, or industrial relations. Many organizations prefer candidates who have a master's degree in business administration (MBA) or a related field. Certification is not typically required, but may give candidates an advantage in the job market. Assistant Directors typically need several years of experience working in management or a related field before being promoted to this position.

Assistant Director Skills

  • Multitasking
  • Leadership
  • Problem solving
  • Time management
  • Organization
  • Communication
  • Negotiation
  • Delegation
  • Public speaking
  • Event planning
  • Budgeting

Related: Top Assistant Director Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become an Assistant Director

The first step to becoming an Assistant Director is to gain experience in the film industry. This can be done by working as a production assistant or other entry-level position on film sets. It is also helpful to take classes or earn a degree in film production.

Once you have some experience under your belt, the next step is to start networking. Get to know as many people in the industry as possible, and let them know your aspirations of becoming an Assistant Director. Attend industry events and functions, and make sure your resume is up-to-date and available to anyone who might be interested in hiring you.

If you are able to land an interview for an Assistant Director position, be prepared to discuss your experience and qualifications in detail. Be confident and articulate, and make sure you emphasize your passion for film and your willingness to work hard.

With dedication and hard work, it is possible to achieve your goal of becoming an Assistant Director. Remember to network, stay positive, and always be prepared for opportunities that come your way.

Related: Assistant Director Resume Example

Related: Assistant Director Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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