35 TV and Film Careers You Should Consider

There are numerous TV and Film careers available in the entertainment industry. There are numerous occupations to pick from, ranging from creative roles to set designers to marketing experts who promote the movie. To assist you choose the one that best suits you, we have listed a variety of TV and Film careers in this post.

35 TV and Film Careers

Below is a list of TV and Film careers along with their pay scales:

1. Hairdresser

National average yearly salary: $21,135

Primary responsibilities: Hairstylists’ main responsibilities in TV and Film careers are to give actors hair effects that accurately portray their characters. They fit the character’s personality, the period, and the weather that is present in the scene.

2. Finance Manager

National average yearly salary: $87,819

Primary responsibilities: Finance controllers’ main responsibilities in TV and Film careers are to oversee the legal and financial management team, which makes sure the movie stays within its budget.

3. A cinematographer or director of photography

National average yearly salary: $47,899

Primary responsibilities: A cinematographer, often known as a director of photography (DP) in TV and Film careers, is in charge of a film’s visual style. The camera and lighting crews are overseen by the cinematographer on a television or film set.

4. Construction supervisor

National average yearly salary: $85,609

Primary responsibilities: Construction managers’ main responsibilities in TV and Film careers include interpreting the production designer’s plans and constructing the set. They gather the supplies and employ the workers. After the shoot, they take everything apart.

5. Costume designer

National average yearly salary: $68,346

Primary responsibilities: The main responsibilities of a costume designer in TV and Film careers are to plan and make the costumes for the actors. They assemble a team, plan purchases, coordinate costume design, and schedule fittings.

6. A production helper

National average yearly salary: $32,814

Primary responsibilities: A production assistant’s main responsibilities in TV and Film careers are to support the director or producer. Production helpers handle errands, handle phones, set up, help with on-set catering, manage scanners and fax machines, and run errands.

7. Accountant for motion picture production

National average yearly salary: $54,689

Primary responsibilities: Production accountants’ main responsibilities in TV and Film careers include managing the production financing, cash flow, and completion guarantees (an insurance plan that guarantees the timely and affordable delivery of films).

8. A makeup artist.

National average yearly salary: $35,462

Primary responsibilities: The actor is covered in makeup by make-up artists in TV and Film careers. They ensure that the performers’ appearances meet the demands of the film. They occasionally have to employ latex, prosthetics, or other special effects.

9. Assistant director

National average yearly salary: $55,512

Primary responsibilities: The assistant director in TV and Film careers assists the director by overseeing the shooting schedule on location and coordinating the various departments.

A key grip chooses the camera and lighting arrangements that will best serve the film’s needs together with the producer and director of photography. For production, they employ their grip team.

10. Director of lighting

National average yearly salary: $51,951

Primary responsibilities: A lighting director’s main responsibilities in TV and Film careers include designing and setting up lighting equipment for visual productions. They develop budgets and plans. To realize the director’s vision, they collaborate with other production team members.

11. Sound editor supervisor

National average yearly salary: $39,458

Primary responsibilities: Supervisory sound editors’ main responsibilities in TV and Film careers include managing the sound crew and monitoring speech, sound effects, and background music.

12. A music creator

National average yearly salary: $55,280

Primary responsibilities: Composers of music in TV and Film careers construct a film’s soundtrack. While the editor assembles sequences, they get to work. They recognize when music is required and choose a genre that complements the narrative.

13. Script reader

National average yearly salary: $51,933

Primary responsibilities: A script reader’s main responsibilities in TV and Film careers are to read provided scripts and quickly analyze them to decide whether or not they should be considered for production. They then offer suggestions to the business they work for.

14. A movie programmer

National average yearly salary: $77,089

Primary responsibilities: Film programmers’ main responsibilities in TV and Film careers include choosing which movies will be screened at film festivals, in theaters, and on television.

15. A video editor

National average yearly salary: $43,287

The editor’s main responsibilities in TV and Film careers are to put the on-location photos together in the correct story order. They make judgments together with the director and present their creations to the producers for review.

16. Actor

National average yearly salary: $18,927

Primary responsibilities: The main responsibilities of an actor in TV and Film careers are to portray a character in a movie while memorizing the dialogue that was provided by the screenwriter. Characters are developed by actors through research. They participate in promotional activities and put themselves forward for interviews.

17. A floor runner

National average yearly salary: $25,872

Primary responsibilities: This includes doing errands, driving, relaying communications, and providing food and drinks. These professionals in TV and Film careers frequently move the cast and crew from the unit base to the set.

18. Marketing Assistant

National average yearly salary: $46,168

Primary responsibilities: Marketing assistants in TV and Film careers support marketing managers in creating effective campaigns. They might plan social media posts or place food orders for events.

19. An archivist

National average yearly salary: $65,229

Primary responsibilities: The primary responsibilities of an archivist in TV and Film careers include cataloging films and making them accessible to producing businesses. They scan and digitize old films to restore them as well.

20. A screenwriter

National average yearly salary: $59,939

Primary responsibilities: A screenwriter’s main responsibilities in TV and Film careers include writing dialogue and scene scripts for movies. They develop a plot, develop characters, and then revise the material until it is suitable for the screen.

21. A casting assistant

National average yearly salary: $59,215

Primary responsibilities: A casting assistant’s main responsibilities in TV and Film careers are to support the casting director. They assist with camera operation and screen testing. To allow the director and producer to view the casting session tape, they edit and upload it. They also help out with office work.

22. A cameraperson

National average yearly salary: $34,097

Primary responsibilities: Camera operators’ main responsibilities in TV and Film careers are to take pictures for films or television. They use a variety of lights, staging, and optical effects techniques like filtering and concentrating to accomplish their desired results. To capture the director’s thoughts and vision for the movie, they work along with other film industry specialists.

23. A member of the grip crew

National average yearly salary: $36,176

Primary responsibilities: A grip crew member in TV and Film careers is in charge of rigging (the machinery used to raise other machinery). They put up lighting setups to produce special effects or cam rigs to steady camera movement.

24. Publicist

National average yearly salary: $53,056

Primary responsibilities: Publicists’ main responsibilities in TV and Film careers are to secure media attention for the movie. They get in touch with journalists and critics, arrange screenings, and put together press kits with a summary and observations on the movie.

25. Marketing manager

National average yearly salary: $70,607

Primary responsibilities: Marketing managers’ main responsibilities in TV and Film careers are to design and direct the advertising strategy that will persuade consumers to see the film.

26. Set decorator

National average yearly salary: $37,372

Primary responsibilities: Set decorators’ main responsibilities in TV and Film careers are to create the backdrop for the film, which gives it visual context and tone. After reading the script and making the appropriate decisions, they organize to buy, rent, or engage workers to construct it.

27. A production buyer

National average yearly salary: $59,194

Primary responsibilities: Purchasing or renting set necessities. To control costs, these professionals in TV and Film careers work with the prop director and keep records of rental dates.

28. Producer

National average yearly salary: $45,791

Primary responsibilities: A producer’s main responsibilities in TV and Film careers are related to the profession of making movies. Producers manage script revisions, recruit the crew, and provide funding. Additionally, they organize venues, handle timetables, and resolve issues on set.

29. Director

National average yearly salary: $99,656

Primary responsibilities: From drafting a script to post-production, a director in TV and Film careers is in charge of all creative aspects of a film. Through the use of on-screen imagery and the actors’ performances, they convey the story.

30. Location manager

National average yearly salary: $51,589

Primary responsibilities: Location managers’ main responsibilities in TV and Film careers are to identify the actual location where the movie’s plot takes place. They schedule appointments and ask how much it will cost. Negotiations and contract signing take place once the director has given his or her consent.

31. Background actor (extra)

National average yearly salary: $21,778

Primary responsibilities: The main responsibilities of an extra in TV and Film careers are to remain in the background of a movie scene. By convincing the audience that the main character is surrounded by actual individuals, they contribute to the scene’s realism.

32. Audio mixer

National average yearly salary: $32,157

Primary responsibilities: Sound mixers in TV and Film careers oversee the audio that was recorded during the film. Dialogues, sound effects, or atmosphere can all contribute.

33. Cashier

National average yearly salary: $27,341

Primary responsibilities: Cashiers’ main responsibilities in TV and Film careers are to help assistant accountants as well as production accountants in maintaining correct financial records for a movie or TV drama. They reconcile the small cash.

34. Casting director

National average yearly salary: $70.481

Primary responsibilities: Casting directors’ main responsibilities in TV and Film careers are to discover suitable candidates while keeping an eye on the budget. To begin, they read the screenplay to become familiar with the various characters. To confirm availability and interest, they next set up casting calls or get in touch with the agencies of the leading performers.

35. Salesperson

National average yearly salary: $63,749

Primary responsibilities: The main responsibility is to sell the film or television series rights to distributors, who then distribute it across numerous channels. Producers employ salespeople.

How to Start a Career in TV and Film

If you’re interested in a career in the film and TV industry, there are several steps you can take to get started. Here’s a guide on how to get a career in film and TV:

  • Develop your skills and knowledge: To work in the film and TV industry, it’s important to develop your skills and knowledge in your area of interest. This may involve taking classes or courses, reading books or blogs, or practicing on your own.
  • Gain experience: Experience is crucial in the film and TV industry, and there are several ways to gain it. You may start by working on student films, volunteering on film sets, or interning at a production company. This will give you a chance to learn the ropes and make connections in the industry.
  • Build a portfolio: As you gain experience, start building a portfolio of your work. This can include writing samples, video projects, or photos of your work on set. A strong portfolio can help you stand out to potential employers.
  • Network: Networking is important in any industry, but it’s especially crucial in the film and TV industry. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with others in the industry on social media. This can help you make valuable connections and learn about job opportunities.
  • Apply for jobs: When you feel ready, start applying for jobs in the film and TV industry. This may involve submitting resumes and cover letters, attending job fairs, or reaching out to contacts in your network. Be persistent and don’t get discouraged if you don’t hear back right away.
  • Keep learning: The film and TV industry is constantly evolving, and it’s important to keep learning and growing as a professional. Take classes, attend conferences, and read industry publications to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies.
  • Be patient and persistent: Building a career in the film and TV industry can take time, so be patient and persistent. Keep working hard, building your skills, and making connections, and you’ll be well on your way to a successful career.

In conclusion, getting a career in film and TV takes hard work, dedication, and persistence. By developing your skills and knowledge, gaining experience, building a portfolio, networking, applying for jobs, and continuing to learn, you can make your dream of working in the film and TV industry a reality.

Skills needed to work in Film and TV

The film and TV industry is a highly competitive field that requires a range of skills to succeed. Here are some of the key skills needed to work in film and TV:

  • Creativity: The film and TV industry is all about creativity. Whether you’re working as a writer, director, or editor, you need to be able to come up with original ideas and approaches to storytelling.
  • Technical skills: A solid understanding of technical skills is essential in the film and TV industry. This can include knowledge of cameras, lighting, sound, and editing software.
  • Communication skills: Communication is crucial in the film and TV industry, as you’ll need to collaborate with a range of professionals, including actors, producers, and crew members. Strong communication skills are needed to convey your ideas effectively and work well with others.
  • Time management: The film and TV industry operates on tight deadlines, so time management skills are crucial. You need to be able to work efficiently and prioritize tasks to ensure that projects are completed on time.
  • Attention to detail: In the film and TV industry, even the smallest details matter. You need to have a keen eye for detail to ensure that everything from wardrobe to set design is perfect.
  • Adaptability: The film and TV industry is fast-paced and constantly changing, so you need to be adaptable to keep up with the latest trends and technologies.
  • Problem-solving skills: When things go wrong on set, you need to be able to think on your feet and come up with solutions quickly. Strong problem-solving skills are essential in the film and TV industry.

Working in film and TV requires a range of skills, including creativity, technical skills, communication skills, time management, attention to detail, adaptability, and problem-solving skills. By developing these skills and staying up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies in the industry, you can succeed in this exciting and dynamic field.

Industries that employ people in Film and TV

Several industries employ people in the film and TV sectors. Here are some of the main industries where you can find employment opportunities:

  • Film and television production: This is the most obvious industry that employs people in film and TV. These companies create films, TV shows, commercials, and other forms of visual media.
  • Broadcast and cable networks: TV networks like ABC, NBC, CBS, and cable networks like HBO, Showtime, and AMC produce and distribute TV shows and movies.
  • Streaming platforms: Companies like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Disney+ have disrupted the traditional TV and film industry and have created new opportunities for people working in this sector.
  • Advertising and marketing: Advertising agencies and marketing firms often create TV commercials, digital ads, and other forms of visual media to promote products and services.
  • Live events and sports: Live events like concerts, sports games, and award shows require camera operators, sound technicians, and other professionals to capture and broadcast the event.
  • Education: Colleges and universities often have media departments that produce educational videos, documentaries, and training materials.
  • Government: Government agencies, such as public broadcasting services, also employ people in the film and TV sector.

Many industries employ people in the film and TV sectors. From production companies to broadcasting networks, streaming platforms to advertising agencies, and beyond, there are a variety of career opportunities available to those interested in working in this exciting and dynamic field.

The typical work environment in Film and TV

The work environment in the film and TV industry can vary depending on the job role and the type of production. Here are some of the typical work environments you may encounter:

  • Production sets: A production set is where most of the filming takes place. Sets can range from small studio sets to large outdoor locations, and they can be constructed to look like anything from a hospital room to a castle.
  • Post-production studios: Post-production studios are where the editing, sound design, and visual effects are done after filming has finished. These studios can be small, with just a few people working on a project, or large, with multiple teams working on different aspects of a production.
  • Offices: Production companies, TV networks, and streaming platforms all have offices where the administrative work of the industry takes place. This can include writing scripts, developing story ideas, scheduling shoots, and managing budgets.
  • On location: Sometimes, film and TV productions require shooting on location. This could be anything from filming a TV show in a different city or country to shooting a commercial in a specific location like a beach or a mountain.
  • Live events: Live events, such as concerts, award shows, and sporting events, require camera operators, sound technicians, and other professionals to capture and broadcast the event live.
  • Freelance: Many people who work in the film and TV industry work as freelancers, meaning they work on a project-by-project basis rather than being employed full-time by a company. This allows them to work on a variety of projects and experience different work environments.

The work environment in the film and TV industry can vary depending on the job role and the type of production. From production sets to post-production studios, and offices to on-location shoots, and live events to freelance work, there are many different work environments in this exciting and dynamic industry.

Salary and job prospects for the Film and TV Industry

The salary and job prospects in the film and TV industry can vary greatly depending on the job role, experience level, location, and other factors. Here are some general guidelines:

  • Entry-level jobs: Entry-level positions in the film and TV industry, such as production assistants or interns, may pay minimum wage or slightly above. These positions are highly competitive and often require long hours and hard work.
  • Mid-level jobs: Mid-level positions, such as editors, camera operators, and sound technicians, can pay anywhere from $30,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
  • Senior-level jobs: Senior-level positions, such as directors, producers, and writers, can earn well over $100,000 per year, with some earning millions of dollars per project.
  • Job prospects: The job prospects in the film and TV industry can be competitive, as many people are interested in working in this field. However, with the rise of streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon, there has been an increase in demand for content, which has created new opportunities for people working in this sector.
  • Location: Salaries and job prospects can vary greatly depending on location. For example, salaries in Los Angeles and New York City tend to be higher than in other parts of the country.
  • Freelance work: Many people who work in the film and TV industry work as freelancers, which can offer flexibility but also uncertainty in terms of job security and income.

Salaries and job prospects in the film and TV industry can vary greatly depending on the job role, experience level, location, and other factors. While entry-level positions may be highly competitive and pay lower wages, there are opportunities for growth and higher salaries in mid and senior-level positions. With the increasing demand for content on streaming platforms, there are also new opportunities emerging in this sector.

Conclusion

In conclusion, careers in the film and TV industry can be exciting and rewarding, but also challenging and competitive. Whether you are interested in creative roles like directing or writing, technical roles like editing or cinematography, or business roles like producing or marketing, there are many different paths to explore in this dynamic industry. While it can take hard work, dedication, and perseverance to succeed in the film and TV industry, the opportunities for creativity, collaboration, and impact can make it a fulfilling career choice for those who are passionate about storytelling and entertainment.

Frequently Asked Questions about TV and Film Careers

Here are 5 frequently asked questions and answers on careers in the Film and TV industry:

  • What are the different job roles available in the film and TV industry?

There are many different job roles available in the film and TV industry, ranging from creative roles like writing, directing, and acting, to technical roles like cinematography, sound design, and visual effects, to business roles like producing, marketing, and distribution. Some other common job roles include editing, production management, art direction, costume design, and location scouting.

  • What kind of education or training do I need to work in the film and TV industry?

The education or training required for working in the film and TV industry can vary depending on the job role. Some roles may require a specific degree, such as a film or media studies degree, while others may require specific technical or creative skills. Many people in the industry start by working as interns or production assistants and working their way up through the ranks.

  • Is it possible to have a successful career in the film and TV industry without living in Los Angeles or New York?

While Los Angeles and New York are known as the main hubs for the film and TV industry in the US, there are also opportunities available in other locations. With the rise of streaming platforms, there has been an increase in production taking place in other cities such as Atlanta, Vancouver, and Toronto. However, living in these locations may still require proximity to a studio or production facility.

  • What are the typical work hours in the film and TV industry?

The work hours in the film and TV industry can be long and irregular, with productions often requiring work on evenings, weekends, and holidays. It’s not uncommon for crew members to work 12-hour days or longer during production periods, while post-production work may involve regular office hours.

  • What are some tips for breaking into the film and TV industry?

Some tips for breaking into the film and TV industry include networking and building relationships, seeking out internships or entry-level positions to gain experience, building a strong portfolio or demo reel, and continuing to learn and develop skills through workshops, classes, or online resources. It’s also important to be persistent and willing to work hard, as the industry can be competitive and challenging to break into.