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TV or film production runner

TV or film production runners work behind the scenes on sets and locations, doing lots of different tasks to help keep things running smoothly.

Annual Salary

£0 to £0

Average UK salary in 2023 was £34,963
(source Office for National Statistics)

Working hours

40 to 55 variable

You could work: evenings / weekends / bank holidays; away from home

1.4%
Future employment

There will be 1.4% more TV or film production runner jobs in 2029.

Day to day tasks

As a TV or film production runner, you could:

  • answer calls and emails, pass on messages and run errands
  • file, photocopy and distribute paperwork necessary for filming
  • check to confirm the availability of actors and guests for shoots
  • help with script reports and script read-throughs
  • drive vehicles around sets or between locations
  • maintain stationery stocks and keep track of day-to-day expenses
  • look after cast, crew and guests and provide refreshments during filming

Working environment

You could work at a TV studio, at a film studio or on a film set.

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • a college course
  • an apprenticeship
  • volunteering
  • applying directly
University

You could do a degree although it's not essential.

Relevant subjects include:

  • creative media production
  • film and television production
  • film and TV studies
  • performing arts

You might find it helpful to choose a course that includes practical skills, work placements and the chance to make industry contacts.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
For more information
  • equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
  • student finance for fees and living costs|https://www.gov.uk/student-finance
  • university courses and entry requirements|https://www.ucas.com/
College

You could take a college course, which may help you gain some of the skills you'll need to find a trainee position.

Courses include:

  • creative media production
  • art and design
  • business and administration
  • T Level in Media, Broadcast and Production

Apprenticeship

You may be able to apply for a Broadcast Production Assistant - Screen and Audio Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship with a media production company.

The BBC, ITV and Channel 4 also offer apprenticeship opportunities.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
For more information
  • equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
  • BBC apprenticeships|https://www.bbc.co.uk/careers/trainee-schemes-and-apprenticeships
  • ITV apprenticeships|https://careers.itv.com/teams/early-careers/apprenticeships
  • Channel 4 apprenticeships|https://careers.channel4.com/4talent/apprenticeships
  • guide to apprenticeships|https://www.gov.uk/apprenticeships-guide
Volunteering and work experience

Get as much practical work experience as you can to show employers that you're committed to learning about the industry. You can get experience through:

  • student film or TV productions
  • community or student radio
  • work experience placements

This can also help you meet people working in TV and film. Building a network of contacts can be useful when you're looking for work.

The BBC, ITV and Channel 4 offer work experience placements, and 'insight' and 'talent days'. Competition can be tough, but if you're successful, it will help you get a better understanding of the industry.

You can search for film and TV companies to approach about opportunities through media business listing services like PACT and The Knowledge.

ScreenSkills also has information on finding work experience and starting out.

Direct application

You can apply directly to become a runner. This job is often seen as a first step into the industry and many employers will be looking for enthusiasm and initiative, above formal qualifications.

They will also expect you to be well organised, able to prioritise tasks and be a good timekeeper.

Requirements and restrictions

You'll need to:

  • A driving licence and access to a vehicle will usually be required, especially when working on location.

More information

Career tips

You can subscribe to production companies' social media channels. This will help you to identify who might be useful to follow and make contact with, as well as hearing about latest industry news and trends.

Further information

You can learn more about how to become a production runner and find information on other careers in the creative industries from ScreenSkills.

You can also get details about opportunities in television from the Royal Television Society.

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If you already have some industry experience or have completed training, then you may be able to apply for a ScreenSkills Trainee placement.

With experience, you could become a production assistant, production co-ordinator or assistant producer (AP).

Video stories related to this job

Skills required and how your skills match up

What skills are required?

You'll need:

  • the ability to work well with others
  • active listening skills
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • knowledge of media production and communication
  • to be flexible and open to change
  • the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
  • excellent verbal communication skills
  • the ability to come up with new ways of doing things
  • to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
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