The Roles and Responsibilities of a Production Assistant: An Inside Look

The Roles and Responsibilities of a Production Assistant: An Inside Look

Are you wondering what the duties of a production assistant (PA) encompass? A production assistant is often referred to as a "gofer," which essentially means you're there to do whatever is needed at the last minute. This role may vary depending on the production, but let's delve into the multifaceted tasks that come with being a PA.

Understanding the 'Gofer' Title

The term "gofer" is a slang name for a production assistant, precisely because of the nature of their job. As a gofer, you're often called upon to run errands, fetch supplies, and handle a variety of other tasks as needed. These duties can be quite diverse and may involve anything from shopping for supplies and bringing coffee and lunch to more administrative tasks like cleaning the office and restrooms.

Variety of Duties

The duties of a production assistant can range widely depending on the production they are working on. Here are some examples:

Location-Dependent Tasks

I once worked with 15 other PAs on the set of Punisher (2004), where we had to ensure that no one walked on a beach to avoid interfering with car stunts. Another time, I worked for the NFL Network, and any time I had to drive to the store with supplies, I had to go through a vehicle x-ray machine and be scanned by law enforcement. These experiences highlight the wide range of tasks that can fall under the responsibilities of a production assistant.

Corporate and Logistics Tasks

As an office PA, you might handle tasks such as running errands for the production manager, driving multiple people around in a van, or even assisting with more complex logistics such as renting a rare car or lifting a grand piano for a music video shoot. These tasks showcase the versatility and adaptability required in this role.

Technical and Intellectual Tasks

I had the opportunity to assist with a Cannon commercial for Maria Sharapova, where I had to drive a box of film to a lab, which represented a significant financial investment. This experience taught me the importance of handling such sensitive items with care and attention to detail.

Entertainment and Creative Tasks

Working on a commercial for a frozen food company, I served as a caveman stand-in to test out a set, incorporating creative tasks into the responsibilities of a PA. This demonstrates how a production assistant can contribute to the creative process in unexpected ways.

Challenges and Positive Experiences

While the duties of a production assistant can be diverse and at times repetitive, there are also many positive and memorable experiences. One of the most memorable occasions was when I worked with LeVar Burton, who once starred in Reading Rainbow. Meeting and working with such a prominent figure was genuinely exciting and intellectually stimulating. Although my role may be simply described as a "gofer," the experience of being part of such a significant production and interacting with industry professionals made it incredibly rewarding.

Conclusion

Being a production assistant, or a "gofer," involves handling a wide range of tasks, from the mundane and administrative to the creative and challenging. While the role may not always be glamorous, it provides a unique opportunity to learn, grow, and be part of the production process. So, if you're considering a career as a production assistant, be prepared for a diverse and exciting journey with plenty of opportunities to learn and contribute in a meaningful way.