An In-Depth Guide to the Jobs and Titles on a Film Set

When watching a film, we often focus on the actors, the director, and perhaps the writer. But the making of a movie is a massive collaborative effort involving hundreds of people, each playing a critical part. A film set functions like a small city, with a clear hierarchy, specialized departments, and carefully coordinated workflows. From creative visionaries to technical experts and organizational wizards, every job on a film set contributes to turning a script into a finished film.

Below is an extensive breakdown of the various jobs and titles you’ll find on a professional film set, organized by department.

1. Above-the-Line Roles

These are the key creative positions that are usually hired during pre-production and have the most significant influence on the film's direction, style, and tone.

Producer – Oversees the entire production from start to finish, handling budgeting, scheduling, financing, hiring, and overall management.

Executive Producer – May secure financing or lend their name for credibility. They are often more hands-off creatively.

Director – The creative leader responsible for translating the script to the screen, directing actors, and making artistic decisions.

Screenwriter – Writes the script or screenplay; may also revise dialogue or scenes during filming.

Lead Actors – The main performers who carry the narrative.

Casting Director – Works with the director and producers to select and audition actors for all roles.

2. Production Department

This department handles the logistical, financial, and day-to-day organization of the shoot.

Line Producer – Handles budgeting and logistics; works closely with the production manager.

Production Manager (Unit Production Manager, or UPM) – Oversees daily operations, budgets, contracts, and crew management.

Production Coordinator – Manages communication and paperwork, such as call sheets, travel, and equipment bookings.

Assistant Directors (ADs):

1st AD – Manages the shooting schedule and coordinates between departments. Key on-set organizer.

2nd AD – Prepares call sheets, manages background actors, and helps with logistics.

2nd 2nd AD / 3rd AD – Assists with crowd control, movement of extras, or helping the 2nd AD.

Script Supervisor – Ensures continuity between shots, takes notes on camera setups, script changes, and actor performance consistency.

3. Camera Department

Led by the Director of Photography, this team captures the visual imagery.

Director of Photography (DP or Cinematographer) – Collaborates with the director to define the film’s visual style and oversees camera and lighting.

Camera Operator – Physically operates the camera during takes.

1st Assistant Camera (1st AC or Focus Puller) – Maintains camera focus and manages the lens and camera gear.

2nd Assistant Camera (2nd AC or Clapper Loader) – Loads film or media cards and handles the slate (clapperboard).

Digital Imaging Technician (DIT) – Works with digital footage, backing up and color grading on set.

4. Grip and Electric Departments

These teams support the camera and lighting setups.

Gaffer (Chief Lighting Technician) – Designs and sets up lighting according to the DP’s vision.

Best Boy Electric – Assistant to the gaffer; organizes crew and equipment.

Electricians – Set up and operate lighting equipment and run power cables.

Key Grip – Leads the grip team that builds and adjusts rigging for lighting, camera movement, and safety.

Best Boy Grip – Assistant to the key grip; manages equipment and crew logistics.

Grips – Handle rigging, dollies, cranes, and lighting flags/diffusion tools.

5. Sound Department

Production Sound Mixer – Captures all on-set audio, including dialogue and ambient noise.

Boom Operator – Holds and positions the boom microphone.

Sound Utility – Assists with setting up wireless mics and cables; supports mixer and boom op.

6. Art Department

This team designs, builds, and decorates the physical world of the film.

Production Designer – Oversees the visual design of sets, locations, and props.

Art Director – Manages the art department and ensures the execution of the production designer’s vision.

Set Designer – Creates technical drawings and floor plans for set construction.

Set Decorator – Selects and arranges furnishings and decorations.

Prop Master – Manages all props used by actors on set.

Props Assistants – Handle, organize, and reset props during filming.

Construction Crew – Builds physical sets, from carpentry to scenic painting.

7. Costume Department

Costume Designer – Designs and plans all wardrobe pieces to reflect character and era.

Costume Supervisor – Manages the wardrobe team and logistics.

Wardrobe Assistants / Dressers – Assist actors in changing and maintaining continuity of clothing.

Tailors / Seamstresses – Alter and fabricate costumes as needed.

8. Hair and Makeup

Key Makeup Artist – Designs and applies makeup looks.

Makeup Assistants – Help apply and touch up makeup during shooting.

Hair Stylist / Key Hair – Styles hair to match the character and continuity.

9. Special Effects (SFX) and Visual Effects (VFX)

SFX Supervisor – Designs and executes physical effects on set (explosions, weather, prosthetics).

SFX Technicians – Build rigs, props, or rigs to create physical effects.

VFX Supervisor – Oversees computer-generated elements added in post-production.

VFX Artists / Compositors – Create digital images and blend them with live-action footage.

10. Stunts

Stunt Coordinator – Designs and supervises all stunt work for safety and choreography.

Stunt Performers – Execute physically demanding or dangerous actions in place of actors.

11. Locations Department

Location Manager – Scouts and secures filming locations, negotiates permits.

Location Scout – Finds potential locations that match the script’s requirements.

Location Assistants – Maintain the set, manage traffic, and liaise with property owners.

12. Transportation

Transportation Captain – Manages all vehicle logistics.

Drivers – Transport crew, cast, and equipment to and from set.

13. Post-Production (After Filming)

Editor – Cuts and assembles the film footage into a coherent story.

Assistant Editor – Prepares footage, syncs sound, and supports the editor.

Colourist – Adjusts the colour and visual tones to match the intended look.

Composer – Writes the film’s score.

Sound Designer – Creates and enhances soundscapes (effects, ambiance).

ADR Technician – Records replacement dialogue in studio.

Foley Artist – Creates sound effects using real-world objects.

Conclusion: A Symphony of Collaboration

Every title on a film set represents a cog in a vast, intricate machine. Whether it's the subtle work of a set dresser, the precision of a focus puller, or the sweeping vision of a director, film production is one of the most collaborative art forms in existence. Understanding the roles behind the scenes not only increases appreciation for the final product but reveals the astonishing scope of talent and coordination required to bring a cinematic story to life.

Whether working on a blockbuster or an indie passion project, these professionals embody the phrase: "It takes a village to make a movie."