Beginner’s guide to film jobs: Get hired on your first UK film set

The UK film industry is thriving, from blockbuster productions at Pinewood Studios to independent shorts being shot on the streets of Manchester, Cardiff, or Glasgow. But if you’re just starting out, getting your first job on a film set can feel like an impossible mission-especially when everyone keeps saying you need experience to get experience.

The truth is, there is a way in. It takes persistence, a bit of strategy, and a willingness to start small. Whether you dream of directing one day, working in camera, costume, or production, getting your foot in the door usually begins the same way: as a runner or another junior role. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you break into the UK film industry and land that crucial first gig.

Contents

1. Build some kind of experience (even if It's unpaid)
2. Make contacts in the film industry
3. Craft your CV and start applying for jobs
   • What to include
   • Where to find jobs
   • What role to apply for
4. Final thoughts: Be patient, be persistent

1. Build some kind of experience (even if it's unpaid)

Film sets are fast-paced, high-pressure environments. There’s little time to explain every detail to someone brand new, which is why it helps enormously if you’ve already been on set—even a tiny one. It shows you understand basic set etiquette, can follow instructions, and won’t freeze when asked to grab a cable or make a coffee run.

Here’s how to get that first taste of experience:

Volunteer on short films: Look on Mandy.com or Shooting People for unpaid or low-budget productions that need crew. These often pop up with little notice and are desperate for help—perfect for getting started.

Join student productions: University students are always looking for enthusiastic people to help on their projects. Search Facebook groups like "Student Filmmakers UK" or contact local film schools and media programs directly. Many student filmmakers also share casting and crew calls via social media stories or posts. Search hashtags like #studentfilmuk, #filmcrewcall.

Help at film festivals: Volunteering at UK film festivals like the BFI London Film Festival, Glasgow Film Festival, or regional events is a great way to meet people in the industry and understand how productions and screenings work behind the scenes.

Sign up as a film extra: While you won’t be part of the crew, working as a background artist through agencies like Uni-versal Extras or The Casting Collective is a great way to get on set and see how productions run. Plus, it’s paid work. Register with multiple agencies to increase your chances, and be as flexible as possible—many roles come up at short notice, sometimes even the day before. Having your own transport is a big advantage, as productions often prioritise extras who can get themselves to set.

Work in live events: Festivals, theatre productions, and music events often need stagehands, runners, and crew members. These roles require many of the same skills used on film sets e.g, problem-solving, stamina and teamwork, and look great on your CV. Local theatres and arts centres often need casual staff for backstage, technical, and front-of-house roles. Check sites like The Stage Jobs or ATG Careers for listings. Volunteering at festivals such as Glastonbury, Edinburgh Fringe, Green Man, or Boomtown can also open doors and help you gain valuable industry contacts while learning how large-scale events run. These opportunities often offer perks like free entry, meals, and great networking potential.

Be open to any opportunity at first. The goal is to learn, connect, and prove you’re capable of being on a professional set, even if it’s not film-related just yet.

2. Make contacts in the film industry

Yes, networking is important—but don’t panic. You don’t need to start cold-emailing UK directors or hanging around film sets with your CV. In fact, most early career connections are made online or through grassroots events.

Here are some effective, non-cringey ways to build your network:

• Join online communities: Facebook groups like “Film & TV Production Crew UK” or “People in TV: Runners” regularly post jobs, call-outs, and advice. Engage with posts, ask questions, and introduce yourself when appropriate.
• Follow industry professionals on social media: LinkedIn and X can be goldmines. Do your research and find and follow assistant directors, production managers, and crew from shows you admire. Pay attention to what they post—they might mention upcoming projects or job openings.
• Attend talks, workshops, and screenings: These events are often hosted by film schools (National Film and TV School, London Film School), independent cinemas, or local media organisations. It’s a great way to learn and meet people who might be looking for help on their next shoot. You can also find likeminded people by joining a film group - see our list of Indie film groups and meetups in London.
• Take a short course: If you have the time and resources, consider a practical short course or evening class in film production. These can help you meet other beginners and tutors who are industry professionals. Check out London' best film schools, the BFI, or ScreenSkills for course listings.

Remember, networking is about building real connections, not just asking for jobs. Be curious, helpful, and genuine. The people you meet now could become collaborators or employers down the line.

3. Craft your CV and start applying for jobs

When you’re ready to apply for real jobs on real sets, your CV is key. In film, CVs are usually no more than one page and get scanned quickly, so make sure yours is clear, professional, and focused.

When contacting production companies or assistant directors, keep your message clear, polite, and to the point.

What to include:

• Relevant experience: Even if it’s just student films or volunteering, list what you did and what you learned.
• Transferable skills: Time management, working long hours, dealing with stress and problem-solving are all useful skills to have on set.
• Your availability and location: If you’re willing to travel or relocate, say so.
• Contact info: Include email, phone number, and ideally a link to a professional profile (LinkedIn or personal website).
• Optional but helpful: A small headshot and a list of references.

Always attach your CV as a PDF, clearly named (e.g. Firstname_Lastname_CV.pdf), and end with a simple thank you. Make sure to proofread your message for typos or grammatical errors—a well-written email makes a strong first impression.

Don’t be tempted to lie about your experience. It's completely fine to be new—everyone starts somewhere. Focus on what you can offer, rather than trying to overstate what you’ve done.

Where to find jobs:

• The Talent Manager – especially for TV production jobs.
• Mandy – useful for both crew and acting work.
• Film London – for industry news and regional opportunities.
• Facebook groups and LinkedIn – as we mentioned earlier, many jobs are still found through word of mouth and informal posts.

What roles to apply for:

Look out for these entry-level jobs:

• Runner (production runner, set runner, office runner)
• Location Assistant
• Production Assistant (PA)
• Props Assistant
• Driver or Driver’s Assistant

These roles are stepping stones and a way to learn about the different departments on set. Many crew members move between roles early in their career before specialising.

Final thoughts: Be patient, be persistent

Breaking into film is rarely instant. You might send out dozens of emails and get one reply. You may work a few unpaid gigs before your first paid job. That’s normal.

The people who succeed are the ones who stick with it, stay humble, and keep learning. Every short film, every late-night festival shift, every coffee run is a chance to prove yourself and meet the people who’ll hire you again.

Once you’re in, things tend to move faster. Your name gets passed around. You get added to call sheets. You become part of the network, and you get to help the next person coming up behind you. Your first job on a film set could be just one message, course, or conversation away. So start today—and keep going.