How to Find Production Assistant Jobs in Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta has become one of the busiest film and TV hubs in the country, which means production assistant (PA) jobs are in steady demand. Whether you’re just starting out or moving here for work, Atlanta offers real opportunities to get on set and build a career in production.

This guide breaks down how production assistant jobs in Atlanta work, where to find them, and what you can do locally to stand out.

What Does a Production Assistant Do in Atlanta?

A production assistant is an entry-level crew member who keeps a set or office running smoothly. In Atlanta, PAs can work on:

• Feature films
• TV series and streaming shows
• Commercials and music videos
• Corporate and social media shoots
• Live events and reality TV

Common on-set PA tasks in Atlanta include:

• Locking up streets and sidewalks during filming
• Helping move equipment and manage background actors
• Handling paperwork, call sheets, and runs for the production office
• Supporting departments (camera, wardrobe, art, etc.) as needed
• Communicating with security, facilities, and location staff

You don’t have to know everything about film to start, but reliability, professionalism, and clear communication are crucial on local sets.

Why Atlanta Is a Strong Market for PA Jobs

Atlanta’s film industry is centered around major studios and production stages spread across the metro area. Many productions shoot within the city and in surrounding areas like Fayetteville, Union City, and Covington.

For job seekers, this means:

• Frequent shoots across the metro area
• A mix of large studio shows and smaller indie projects
• Opportunities in both narrative work (films/series) and commercials

You may find yourself working in Midtown one week and a backroad in south Georgia the next, so flexibility and reliable transportation are huge assets.

Types of Production Assistant Jobs in Atlanta

Not all PA jobs are the same. In Atlanta, you’ll commonly see:

Set PA

Most common entry-level role.

• Works on set during filming
• Supports the Assistant Director (AD) team
• Manages background actors, lockups, and crowd control
• Helps maintain order and safety on set

Office PA

Works in the production office, usually in town.

• Handles phones, paperwork, and scheduling support
• Helps manage scripts, sides, and travel arrangements
• Often Monday–Friday with more regular hours than set work

Locations PA

Supports the locations department.

• Helps with permits, signage, and securing locations
• Assists with parking, basecamp, and cleanup
• Often does early call times and late wraps

Department PA

Attached to a specific department, such as:

• Camera
• Wardrobe
• Art / Set Decoration
• Grip / Electric

These roles usually require some prior knowledge or experience in that department.

Basic Requirements for PA Jobs in Atlanta

Most Atlanta productions look for:

• Age 18+
• Reliable transportation (many sets are outside MARTA reach)
• Smartphone for calls, texts, and maps
• Availability for long days (12+ hours is normal)
• Ability to work as a freelancer (not a traditional 9–5 job)

You typically don’t need a film degree, but you must show you’re dependable, organized, and easy to work with.

How to Find Production Assistant Jobs in Atlanta

There’s no single central hiring site, so you’ll want to use several approaches.

1. Local Facebook & Online Production Groups

Atlanta has active production job boards and groups where PAs are frequently hired. Look for:

• Atlanta-focused PA and crew call groups
• Groups that post “crew calls” for films, TV, and commercials
• Threads where coordinators and ADs ask for resumes

Search for groups that mention:

• “Atlanta production jobs”
• “Atlanta film crew”
• “Atlanta PAs”

Once you join, read the group rules, don’t spam, and respond professionally to postings.

2. Georgia Film Office Resources

The Georgia Film Office, part of the Georgia Department of Economic Development, is a key resource for anyone entering the industry.

Georgia Film Office
75 5th Street NW, Suite 1200
Atlanta, GA 30308
Phone: (404) 962-4000

They typically provide:

• A production directory of local companies and vendors
• Lists of productions currently filming or prepping in Georgia
• General guidance on getting started in the state’s film industry

This office does not usually hire PAs directly, but it helps you understand who is working in town and where to reach out.

3. Local Production Companies and Studios

Many Atlanta-based production companies and content shops regularly hire PAs for:

• Commercials
• Corporate shoots
• Branded content
• Social/digital projects

You can:

• Make a list of companies located in Atlanta (especially around Midtown, Buckhead, and the Westside)
• Check their “Careers” or “Contact” pages for instructions on submitting resumes
• Send a short, professional email expressing interest in PA work

Some major studio complexes around metro Atlanta may not accept unsolicited job requests, but knowing where they are helps you track who is working in town.

4. Background Acting & Entry-Level Set Exposure

Some people in Atlanta start as background actors (extras) to observe how a set operates. While that is not the same as PA work, it can:

• Help you learn set etiquette
• Let you watch how PAs and ADs communicate
• Give you a feel for early call times and long days

If you choose this route, always follow casting instructions carefully and treat it as a way to learn how a professional set runs.

5. Film Schools and Training Programs

Atlanta has film-related programs and workshops that can help you:

• Learn production basics
• Meet other emerging filmmakers
• Gain experience on student or small independent sets

You might find opportunities through:

• Local universities and colleges with film or media programs
• Community workshops and short courses in production
• Nonprofit arts and film organizations in the city

Student sets are usually low or no pay, but they can be a safe way to practice PA skills before jumping onto a larger professional show.

How Much Do Production Assistants Make in Atlanta?

Rates can vary based on:

• Type of project (union vs. non-union, studio vs. indie)
• Commercial vs. film/TV
• Your experience level

Common patterns:

• Many entry-level set PAs work for a flat day rate, often for long days
• Office and locations PAs may be offered a weekly rate on longer shows
• Smaller independent shoots in Atlanta may pay less than larger studio productions

Always clarify rate, hours, and expectations before you accept a job. Ask:

• “Is this a 12-hour day rate?”
• “Is overtime paid?”
• “Is mileage or parking reimbursed?”

Skills Atlanta Employers Look for in PAs

You don’t need to be an expert, but you should show core strengths:

• Punctuality – Atlanta traffic is tough; arrive early
• Professional communication – clear, respectful, and brief
• Positive attitude – calm under pressure, solutions-focused
• Attention to detail – follow instructions exactly
• Physical stamina – able to be on your feet most of the day

Local PAs who consistently show up on time and stay organized often get called back for job after job.

Tools & Gear That Help on Atlanta Sets

You’re usually not expected to bring professional equipment, but some basics help:

• Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing (Atlanta heat and humidity can be intense)
• Closed-toe shoes or boots with good support
• Small notebook and pens
• Phone charger and portable battery
• Reusable water bottle and light snacks

On some shows, a basic headset or earpiece for walkies may be handy, but many productions will provide what you need.

Building Experience and a Network in Atlanta

Most PA careers in Atlanta grow through word of mouth. To build momentum:

Do Excellent Work on Every Job

Atlanta’s production community is big but connected. ADs, coordinators, and producers:

• Remember who showed up early
• Notice who stayed helpful and focused
• Share names of reliable PAs with other productions

Treat every job like an extended interview for your next job.

Stay in Touch With People You Meet

After a show wraps:

• Ask if you can stay on a department or AD email list
• Let coordinators know when you’re again “available to work”
• Keep a well-organized list of your contacts and projects

A simple, professional message like:
“Hi [Name], this is [Your Name], we worked together on [Show]. I’m currently available for PA work in Atlanta if you hear of anything coming up.”
can go a long way.

Consider Which Direction You Want to Grow

As you gain experience, you may lean toward:

• Assistant Director track (AD / production management)
• Camera department
• Art department
• Locations
• Post-production (less PA, more office-based)

Atlanta offers paths in all of these, especially if you stay persistent and keep improving your on-set skills.

Typical Day for a Production Assistant in Atlanta

Every shoot is different, but a typical set PA day might look like:

1. Early call time – often before sunrise, especially in summer
2. Gear up – grab your radio, get your assignment from the AD team
3. Set up – help with signs, lockups, and preparing set or basecamp
4. During shooting – manage background actors, respond to radio calls, keep walkways clear, assist departments when requested
5. Wrap – help break down set areas, collect paperwork, and reset for the next day

Be prepared for:

• Outdoor shoots in heat, rain, or cold
• Long stretches of standing
• Quick changes in plans based on weather and locations

Simple Atlanta PA Job Hunt Checklist

Use this quick reference to keep your search organized:

Practical Tips for Working as a PA in Atlanta

A few local realities and how to handle them:

• Traffic & Travel: Call times can be very early to avoid rush hour. Aim to arrive 20–30 minutes early, especially if you’re driving across town or to outer-metro locations.
• Weather: Atlanta summers are hot and humid. Hydrate, dress smart, and use sunscreen when working outside.
• Parking: Some in-town locations have limited crew parking. Always read parking instructions carefully and budget extra time.
• Professionalism: Even on relaxed sets, avoid gossip, oversharing, and posting set photos online. Productions in Atlanta take confidentiality seriously.

If you’re based in Atlanta or planning to move here, production assistant jobs can be a realistic and valuable way to break into the city’s fast-growing film and TV scene. With a focused search, strong work habits, and a willingness to learn, you can start building your reputation on sets across the metro area.