Graduate Film Production Assistant CV Template Example
The role of a Graduate Film Production Assistant is an exciting entry point for anyone looking to break into the dynamic world of film and television production. Often regarded as the backbone of a production team, a Film Production Assistant provides essential support across departments, ensuring shoots run smoothly and deadlines are met. The responsibilities typically include assisting with logistics, coordinating schedules, managing equipment, supporting crew members, and handling administrative duties. This role is perfect for graduates looking to gain hands-on experience and develop industry connections. Salaries for graduate positions in film production generally range from £18,000 to £24,000 per year, depending on location and production scale, with opportunities for growth as experience increases.
Creating a CV that stands out in the competitive film industry can be the difference between landing your first role and continuing the job search. With hundreds of applicants vying for the same positions, your CV must demonstrate not only your skills and experience but also your passion, creativity, and adaptability.
Why a Strong CV Matters
Your CV is your first impression. For a Graduate Film Production Assistant, it’s not just about listing qualifications; it’s about showcasing your practical experience, organisational skills, and understanding of production processes. Employers in the film industry are looking for candidates who are reliable, proactive, and capable of working under pressure in a fast-paced environment. A well-structured CV will highlight your relevant education, hands-on experience, internships, and transferable skills, positioning you as a candidate who can immediately add value to a production team.
Key Skills to Highlight on Your CV
When crafting your CV, it’s essential to focus on skills that are highly sought after in film production. These include:
Technical Knowledge: Familiarity with cameras, lighting equipment, editing software, and production tools.
Organisational Skills: Ability to coordinate schedules, manage logistics, and maintain records efficiently.
Communication: Clear and professional communication with directors, crew members, and external partners.
Problem-Solving: Quick thinking and adaptability when challenges arise on set.
Teamwork: Collaborative attitude and willingness to support colleagues in multiple departments.
Time Management: Meeting tight deadlines while maintaining attention to detail.
How to Structure Your Graduate Film Production Assistant CV
A well-structured CV should be clear, concise, and visually appealing. Here’s a recommended structure:
Contact Information: Full name, phone number, professional email, LinkedIn profile, and portfolio link (if applicable).
Professional Summary: A short, compelling paragraph summarising your key skills, career goals, and passion for film production.
Education: Degrees, diplomas, or certifications relevant to film, media, or communications. Include institution names, dates, and notable achievements.
Work Experience: List roles in reverse chronological order. Include internships, volunteer work, and part-time positions in media or production environments. Highlight responsibilities, achievements, and any measurable outcomes.
Skills Section: A bullet-point list of technical, soft, and transferable skills.
Projects & Achievements: Highlight any student films, short films, or independent projects where you contributed to production.
References: Optional but can be included if you have professional contacts in the industry.
Example Graduate Film Production Assistant CV Entry
Production Assistant | Independent Short Film | London
June 2024 – August 2024
Assisted the director and production manager with daily tasks, ensuring smooth set operations.
Managed equipment and coordinated schedules for cast and crew.
Supported post-production by organizing footage and logging metadata.
Collaborated with a team of 10 to ensure deadlines were met under tight timelines.
Education Example
BA in Film and Television Production | University of Westminster | 2024
Graduated with 2:1 honours.
Directed a short film that won the Best Student Project award at the University Film Festival.
Graduate CV Advice for Entry-Level Applicants
For graduates, your CV should emphasise practical experience over years in the industry. This includes:
Internships: Highlight any production internships or shadowing experiences.
Student Projects: Include relevant coursework or short films you contributed to.
Technical Skills: Software proficiency (Adobe Premiere, Final Cut, DaVinci Resolve) and equipment knowledge.
Volunteering: Film festivals, community media projects, or student media teams.
Middle and Senior Management CV Advice
If you are aiming for middle or senior management roles in film production, your CV should:
Focus on leadership experience, team management, and project oversight.
Include budget management, scheduling, and resource allocation skills.
Highlight industry recognition, awards, and successful productions led.
Demonstrate strategic vision for production planning and efficiency improvements.
CV Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s:
Keep your CV to 2 pages maximum.
Use action verbs like assisted, coordinated, managed, and produced.
Tailor your CV for each role, emphasising relevant experience.
Include keywords from the job description to pass applicant tracking systems (ATS).
Ensure spelling and grammar are impeccable.
Don’ts:
Don’t include irrelevant personal information or hobbies unless they add value.
Avoid long paragraphs—use bullet points for readability.
Don’t exaggerate or falsify experience. Integrity matters.
Avoid outdated formats; use a clean, modern design.
General Tips for Optimising Your CV
Personalise Your CV: Every production is unique. Tailor your CV to the style, scale, and requirements of the company.
Portfolio Matters: Include links to student films, reels, or production work. Visual proof of your experience is invaluable.
Networking: Mention connections or references from industry professionals if appropriate.
Continuous Learning: Highlight workshops, courses, or certifications that show commitment to growth.
Show Passion: Film production is competitive. Demonstrating genuine enthusiasm can set you apart.
Final Thoughts
Creating a graduate film production assistant CV that wins interviews takes careful planning, attention to detail, and a clear presentation of your skills and experience. Remember to structure your CV logically, highlight relevant projects, and showcase your adaptability and eagerness to learn. For middle and senior management candidates, focus on leadership, strategic skills, and proven project success. Avoid common pitfalls such as overly long CVs, generic statements, or unclear formatting.
I encourage all graduates and professionals to take the next step in their career by refining their CV and LinkedIn presence. If you’re serious about landing your dream role in film production, you can book an appointment with me to have your CV and LinkedIn profile professionally improved here: https://www.cvlondon.net/book-an-appointment/
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With over 25 years of experience coaching UK-based graduates and professionals, I’ve seen firsthand how the right CV can transform your career prospects. Let’s make yours stand out, get noticed, and land the interviews you deserve.
