Production Assistant

Description: A production assistant performs various odd jobs during the filming of a television or cinematic production, which may include office work, driving talent and crew to and from locations, or working with the grip and lighting department.

Knowledge Required: Film and television production, writing, critical thinking, physical fitness

Skills: Assertiveness, patience, communication, time management

Career Path: A production assistant is an entry-level position, and the easiest way to get involved is to start as an intern and work hard to move up the ranks as a production manager or associate producer.

Best Cities for this job: Large metropolitan areas with a concentration of entertainment are Los Angeles, New York City, San Francisco, and Washington D.C.

Median Annual Income: Pay varies depending on the type of television show or film production. Standard rates in film typically range from $150-250 for 12 hours plus overtime.

Future Growth: The Bureau of Labor Statistic predicts a 14 percent growth in employment between 2008 and 2018.

From the field:  "I love working in this business. This business is a very special thing. It's very demanding. Sometimes things are really fast, and then it slows down, and then it gets fast again." - Jason Sklar, Production Assistant