Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a TV Assistant

🎯 Role Definition

A TV Assistant, often known in the industry as a Production Assistant (PA) or Runner, is the versatile and indispensable entry-level professional at the heart of any television production. They act as the primary support system for the entire crew, providing crucial hands-on assistance across all departments—from pre-production planning and research to on-set logistics and post-production wrap-up. The role demands adaptability, resourcefulness, and a proactive attitude, as the TV Assistant is responsible for ensuring the countless moving parts of a production operate smoothly, efficiently, and on schedule. They are the ultimate problem-solvers and facilitators, making them a foundational element of a successful show.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Media, Film, or Communications Degree Graduate
Production or Media Internship
Administrative or Executive Assistant roles
Event Coordination or Hospitality positions

Advancement To:

Production Coordinator
2nd or 3rd Assistant Director (AD)
Associate Producer
Script Supervisor

Lateral Moves:

Casting Assistant
Post-Production Assistant
Camera Assistant or Trainee
Art Department Assistant

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Facilitate clear and constant communication between departments (e.g., directing, camera, art, sound) by physically relaying messages, distributing schedules, and ensuring all team members have the most current information.
Prepare and meticulously distribute daily production paperwork, including call sheets, scripts, sides, health and safety notices, and contact lists to all cast and crew members.
Provide direct, on-set support to the Director, Assistant Directors, and Producer, anticipating their needs and executing tasks promptly to keep the shoot on schedule.
Manage the security and lockdown of the set during filming to prevent unauthorized access, control noise, and ensure a safe, focused environment for talent and crew.
Coordinate the transportation of cast, crew, and key personnel to and from various locations, including airports, hotels, and filming sites, often requiring complex logistical planning.
Assist the art department and props master with sourcing, setting up, striking, and maintaining continuity for props and set dressing between takes and scenes.
Serve as the first point of contact for actors and on-screen talent, escorting them to and from their trailers, makeup, wardrobe, and the set, ensuring they are prepared and on time for their scenes.
Manage and organize production equipment, including walkie-talkies, headsets, and other gear, by distributing them at the start of the day and collecting/charging them upon wrap.
Handle general administrative and office duties within the production office, such as answering phones, making photocopies, scanning documents, and managing incoming/outgoing mail and deliveries.
Perform essential errands critical to the production, which can range from picking up props and wardrobe items to securing last-minute supplies or delivering tapes and drives to post-production houses.
Maintain a high level of organization and cleanliness on set and in the production office, ensuring a safe and efficient working environment for everyone involved.
Assist with crowd control and the management of background actors (extras), guiding them to their positions and ensuring they follow the direction given by the Assistant Director.

Secondary Functions

Support the research needs of the production by gathering information, finding stock footage, or performing fact-checking for scripts and creative concepts.
Assist the locations department with on-site tasks, including setting up signage, liaising with property owners, and helping to restore locations to their original state after filming.
Manage craft services and catering logistics, ensuring food and beverages are available for the cast and crew throughout the demanding shooting day.
Create and manage detailed logs, notes, and reports during filming, such as continuity logs or tape logs, to aid the post-production and editing process.
Assist with the collection and organization of release forms, contracts, and other essential legal paperwork from cast, crew, and location providers.
Operate basic video and audio equipment for behind-the-scenes content capture or to record casting sessions and rehearsals under supervision.
Help coordinate and schedule meetings, appointments, and travel arrangements for senior production staff, ensuring seamless logistical flow.
Support the wardrobe and costume department by helping with fittings, organizing costumes, and assisting with on-set continuity and quick changes.
Handle petty cash and complete expense reports for minor production-related purchases, ensuring accurate record-keeping and accountability.
Participate in production wrap-out, which involves archiving documents, returning rented equipment, and ensuring the production office and locations are cleared out properly.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Office Software Proficiency: High level of competence in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Drive) for scheduling, reporting, and communication.
Production Management Software: Familiarity with industry-standard software like Movie Magic Scheduling, Final Draft, or similar script breakdown tools is a strong asset.
Basic Camera Operation: A fundamental understanding of operating DSLR or other basic video cameras for capturing behind-the-scenes footage or assisting the camera department.
Driving & Logistics: A valid driver's license and a clean driving record are often essential for running errands and transporting personnel or equipment.
Communication Equipment: Experience using and managing walkie-talkies, understanding set etiquette and proper channel communication.
Basic Editing Software: Entry-level knowledge of Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro for logging footage or assembling rough cuts can be beneficial.

Soft Skills

Unwavering Adaptability: The ability to pivot quickly and calmly in a high-pressure, constantly changing environment without losing focus.
Proactive Problem-Solving: A "can-do" attitude with the foresight to anticipate potential issues and the resourcefulness to find solutions independently.
Exceptional Communication: Clear, concise, and professional verbal and written communication skills; an attentive listener who can follow complex instructions accurately.
Discretion and Professionalism: The ability to handle sensitive information, interact with high-profile talent, and maintain a professional demeanor at all times.
Resilience and Stamina: The capacity to work long, often irregular hours on your feet while maintaining a positive and energetic attitude.
Impeccable Time Management: Superior organizational skills with the ability to prioritize a multitude of competing tasks effectively to meet tight deadlines.
Strong Teamwork Ethic: A collaborative spirit and the willingness to jump in and help any department or team member, regardless of the task.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or equivalent.

Preferred Education:

Associate's or Bachelor's Degree.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Film & Television Production
Communications
Media Studies
Theatre Arts
Journalism

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 0 - 2 years.

Preferred: Direct experience through one or more internships within a production company, on a film/TV set, or at a broadcast station is highly advantageous. Experience in fast-paced hospitality or event management roles is also considered relevant.