What Does a Production Assistant Do? - Film Jobs Explained

Production assistants, or PAs for short, are pretty common on sets, all the way from big budget Hollywood films to small indie films. But what does a film production assistant do? Well the answer is a lot of things, so let’s go over all the various things a PA does on set.

Generally, PAs spend most of their time helping to set things up, such as crafty, meals, and handing out walkie talkies. They are basically there to help assist every department with anything they might need. Therefore, they are constantly running around on their walkie, replying to any calls for help.

Because of this, they are also responsible for carrying around spare charged walkie batteries, also known as hot bricks, for anyone who needs them. They then take the drained batteries and make sure they get charged up with electric juice again.

And speaking of communication, PAs can also help with communicating when the production is about to go for a take and prevent anyone from walking on set or through the background of the take.

They also often help inform the cast and crew when meal breaks are happening to ensure everyone is aware and gets in line for food. After all, the meal break doesn’t officially start till the last person has gone through the food line and gotten their meal so this is key.

PAs also often go on runs for last minute needs, such as getting people water or even going to the store to buy items.

And finally, PAs are usually the first people to show up and last people to leave because they help to wrap and clean everything up. This usually means they are picking up a tone of water bottles because everyone puts down their water bottle and forgets about it on set.

So now you know all of the various jobs a PA does. Phew… man it is quite a lot so make sure you treat your PAs well!

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