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Getting Started and Finding Jobs in the Film & Television Industry

photo of a film crew working on a film set
Source

How do you get started in the Film & Television Industry?

You will need to complete the Motion Picture Industry Orientation Course (MPIO).

Developed in partnership between Creative BC, MPPIA and industry labour organizations, this course is administered by Actsafe and provides information you need to know before working on a film set. It’s also a requirement for membership or permittee status in most unions. The Motion Picture Industry Orientation is a 1-day course and costs $75.00 + GST.

Course topics include the structure of the BC film industry, stages of production, industry jobs, set terminology, set etiquette, basic safety and communication skills.

MPIO is offered through the following educational institutions:

List of other ActSafe workshops
You may be asked to also complete this in addition to MPIO
You may be asked to also complete this in addition to MPIO

Which Unions Represent Workers in the Film & Television Industry?

After completing coursework, contact the Union representing your type of work and ask about membership.

The Association of Canadian Film Craftspeople represents accounting, art, catering, construction, continuity, craft services, editing, electric, greens, grip, hair, make-up, production office props, prop building, publicity, scenic art, security, set decoration, sound, special effects, transportation, wardrobe, wranglers (animal)
Representing IATSE Local 891, ICG Local 669 and Teamsters Local Union 155
Represents Director, 2nd Unit Director, Production & Unit Manager, plus those employed in the various Assistant Director and Locations Departments
Membership includes: Directors of Photography, Camera Operators, Camera Assistants, Unit Publicists, Unit Still Photographers, Electronic Camerapeople, Video Assist, Digital Engineers and Technicians
International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees – Production Technicians) represents accounting, art, construction, costume, editing, first aid / craft service, greens, grips, hair, lighting / electrics, make-up, painting, production office, props, script supervisors, continuity coordinator, set decorating, sound, special effects, visual effects
Represents drivers, security, catering, animal handlers & wranglers, mechanics
Branch of ACTRA represents actors. Stunt people, singers, dancers, puppeteers, voices.

Getting Experience

 Everyone who hires in film and broadcasting want applicants who already have experience, whether volunteer or professional. Most people get their first film or broadcasting job through a contact – an acquaintance who knows about an unadvertised job or where work can be found.

How can you make these very important contacts?

  • Make yourself visible. The only way people will know about you is because you’re already working, or from your school or volunteer work.
  • Be an enthusiastic worker. If you’re willing to try anything and enjoy what you’re doing, people will remember you.
  • Be curious about others. Your network is not just about you. Have a genuine interest in what others do and enjoy learning from them.
  • Stay in touch. Relationships need constant work. Give your contacts a call now and then, and ask them how they’re doing. Tell them what you’re up to.

Source: Careers in Culture [Cultural Human Resources Council], Careers in Film & Broadcasting, Career Routes

Online Job Postings

Creating a List of Potential Employers

You can use directories to produce lists of employers in the film & television industry in British Columbia. Contact them directly to find out if they’re hiring.

Weekly updated list of all productions currently shooting in BC (feature films, TV series, TV pilots, reality TV)