What a Great Production Assistant Does on Set
A Production Assistant is the connective tissue of any working set. On a Montreal production, your PA might be running scripts to cast, managing a walkie channel, locking up a location during a take, coordinating base camp logistics, or making sure the coffee situation never becomes a crisis. The best PAs are proactive, calm under pressure, and already two steps ahead of whatever the AD is about to ask for.
Strong candidates know set etiquette, understand the chain of command, and can pivot from administrative tasks to hands-on physical work without missing a beat. For bilingual shoots in Quebec, a PA who is comfortable working in both English and French is a genuine asset, especially when coordinating with local vendors, location contacts, or municipal liaisons.
What to Look for When Hiring a PA in Montreal
- Demonstrated on-set experience, even if entry-level, including student films, commercials, or corporate video
- Familiarity with standard production paperwork such as call sheets, one-liners, and daily reports
- A valid driver's license and reliable transportation, since PA work often involves runs across the city
- Bilingual fluency in English and French, which is particularly valuable in the Montreal market
- References from a coordinator, AD, or producer who can speak to their reliability and attitude
- Flexibility with hours, since production schedules shift and early calls are the norm
Typical PA Rates in Montreal
Production Assistant day rates in Montreal typically vary depending on the type of production, union or non-union context, and the individual's experience level. Entry-level PAs on independent or lower-budget productions typically earn less than those working on larger commercial or broadcast projects. Rates on union-affiliated productions are governed by applicable collective agreements. When budgeting, it is worth factoring in overtime, meal penalties, and any travel or kit fees that may apply. NeedaCrew lets you post your project with your rate and conditions clearly stated so you attract candidates who are the right fit from the start.
Why Producers Use NeedaCrew to Hire in Montreal
NeedaCrew is built specifically for film and TV hiring in the US and Canada. Every crew member on the platform has a verified profile, so you are not sorting through generic job boards or cold LinkedIn messages. You can post a project, describe exactly what you need, and receive applications from PAs who are available in Montreal and ready to work.
Whether you are staffing a single shoot day or need a PA for a multi-week run, NeedaCrew gives you a fast, organized way to find and book the right person.
Ready to hire? Post your project on NeedaCrew and start receiving applications from Montreal PAs today.
Are you a Production Assistant based in Montreal or elsewhere in Quebec? Join NeedaCrew as a crew member and get discovered by producers actively hiring in your area.