What a Great Production Assistant Actually Does
A Production Assistant is the connective tissue of any working set. On a typical shoot day in Burbank, a strong PA is managing basecamp logistics, running paperwork between departments, driving talent or equipment when needed, locking up set during takes, and making sure the AD has what they need before they ask for it. Office PAs keep the production office running smoothly, handling distribution of sides, call sheets, and deal memos while fielding the constant stream of incoming questions from crew and vendors.
The best PAs are proactive, calm under pressure, and genuinely understand set etiquette. They know when to speak up and when to stay out of the way. If you are hiring for a longer engagement, look for someone who has worked on productions of a similar scale to yours and who has references from coordinators or ADs who can speak to their reliability and attitude.
What to Look for When Hiring a PA in Burbank
- Familiarity with the local area, including studio lots, gear houses, and common base camp locations around Burbank and the surrounding area
- A valid California driver's license and a clean driving record, especially if the role involves runs or transporting talent
- Experience with the specific type of production you are running, whether that is a scripted series, commercial, music video, or documentary
- Strong references from a coordinator, UPM, or AD on a recent project
- Clear communication and a professional attitude toward long hours and shifting priorities
Rates for Production Assistants in Burbank
PA rates in the Burbank and greater Los Angeles area vary depending on the type of production, the duration of the hire, and whether the project is union or non-union. Non-union productions typically pay day rates that reflect the local cost of living and the competitive nature of the market. Union productions covered under IATSE or other guild agreements will have minimums that apply. It is worth budgeting realistically for a PA who has enough experience to operate independently, since the time you save in supervision and corrections is worth the difference in rate. When posting your project, being transparent about your rate range will attract more qualified applicants and move the hiring process along faster.
Find Your Burbank PA on NeedaCrew
NeedaCrew is the marketplace built specifically for US and Canadian film and TV productions. Crew members on the platform are verified, and the system is designed to help producers and coordinators post a project, review applicants, and confirm a hire without the back-and-forth that slows everything down.
If you are a producer or production coordinator with an upcoming shoot in Burbank, post your project on NeedaCrew and start receiving applications from local, experienced PAs right away.
If you are a Production Assistant based in Burbank or the greater Los Angeles area and you are looking for your next gig, join NeedaCrew as a crew member and get your profile in front of the productions that are hiring now.