A Production Assistant, usually called a PA, is an entry level all rounder who keeps film and television productions moving. Think of the PA as the friendly fixer who supports every department, keeps communication flowing, and solves the little problems before they become big ones. It is one of the best ways to learn how sets actually work, and it opens doors across production, editorial and technical roles. ScreenSkills describes the role as a vital link through pre production, production and post production, which is exactly how it feels on real jobs.

At Crew Studio we regularly work with brilliant PAs across the UK. If you need a PA for hire or full production services, we can book trusted crew for film, television and commercial shoots.

Core skills that make a great PA

• Organisation and multitasking in a fast moving environment
• Clear communication with crew, talent and clients
• Time management under pressure
• Calm problem solving and a positive attitude
• Practical knowledge of set etiquette, paperwork and basic kit

These align with UK guidance for runners and production support roles, which highlights copy and distribution of paperwork, runs, and general support as everyday tasks. 

What a Production Assistant actually does

A PA touches almost every stage of a project. Here is how the job tends to break down.

Pre production

• Office support such as scheduling meetings, updating contact sheets, filing and preparing call sheets
• Research on locations, props and suppliers
• General preparation including kit checklists, stationery and set essentials
  This blend of administrative, practical and creative support is echoed in UK role descriptions for broadcast and scripted production.

On set

• Hand out call sheets and sides, relay messages between departments and keep the day flowing
• Look after craft area and refreshments if required
• Support talent with transport and timings
• Keep an eye on safety and tidy work areas
  The National Careers Service and ScreenSkills describe runners and PAs as the hands and feet of the production team, which matches this picture.

Post production

• Admin such as logging, file labelling and courier or digital deliveries
• Assist with media management and exports where appropriate
• Help prepare final documentation and asset handover
  These duties are commonly listed in UK PA job descriptions and freelance toolkits.

What a PA gets paid in the UK

Pay varies with location, project scale and whether you work staff or freelance. Current UK sources indicate the following.

• Indeed lists an average Production Assistant salary around £25k per year across the UK, with London averages a little higher.
• Glassdoor reports similar national figures for TV and film Production Assistant roles.
• Many PAs work freelance on day rates that scale with budget and responsibility. BECTU publishes rate card guidance by department, and advises freelancers to use going rates and scope to set fees. Exact PA figures are not always public, so the union resources and your network are the best reference points when negotiating.

In practice this means many early career PAs see annualised earnings between £20k-£30k depending on the mix of corporate, commercial, television and film work, and on how steady the bookings are. The upper end tends to be in London and on larger shows. That aligns with the salary snapshots above.

How to get started as a PA in the UK

• Build experience on short films, student shoots and local productions. Real credits matter
• Use UK platforms such as Mandy, ScreenSkills, and The Knowledge for entry level listings and training
• Network at festivals and crew meet ups, and stay in touch with coordinators and assistant directors
• Learn set etiquette and paperwork inside out, then be the first to volunteer for the unglamorous tasks
• Keep your profile clear and current so producers can find you when they search for a PA for hire in the UK

ScreenSkills maintains job profiles, checklists and a freelance toolkit that can help you prepare and price work.

Final thoughts

A Production Assistant role is a smart first step into film and television because you learn how the whole machine fits together. If you bring energy, curiosity and reliability, people will ask for you again, which is how careers grow in this industry.

If you need a reliable Production Assistant in the UK, or you want full crew and production support, Crew Studio can help. We work with trusted PAs and production teams across film, television and commercial projects, and we can match the right person to your brief.