Entertainment & Media

Producer and Director

SOC 27-2012.00 · ESCO 2654 · OSCA 231231

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Role snapshot

Overview

Oversees the creative and logistical aspects of film, television, or stage productions, from script selection and budgeting to casting and post-production. Coordinates large teams and makes artistic decisions that shape the final product audiences see. This role demands a blend of artistic vision, strong leadership, and meticulous project management to bring a creative concept to fruition.

Brings stories and creative visions to life for audiences, influencing culture and entertainment. Ensures complex productions are executed efficiently and to a high artistic standard.

On the job

  • Develop and manage production budgets and schedules, ensuring projects stay on track and within financial constraints.
  • Select scripts, cast actors, and audition crew members, building a cohesive and talented production team.
  • Direct actors and crew during filming or rehearsals to achieve the desired artistic vision and performance.
  • Oversee post-production activities, including editing, sound mixing, visual effects, and final delivery.
  • Collaborate with writers, cinematographers, designers, and other department heads to ensure project cohesion and quality.
Producer and Director at work

Tools & technology

Final Cut ProAdobe Premiere ProAvid Media ComposerMovie Magic BudgetingShotgun (Autodesk Flow Production Tracking)

Average salary

$120K
MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD
$75K Bottom 10%
$200K Top 10%

Job outlook

Stable

Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Education & training

Bachelor's degree in film, television, theatre, or a related field; significant industry experience often more critical than formal education.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Executive Producer
Showrunner

CURRENT ROLE

Producer and Director

Entertainment & Media

ADJACENT MOVES

Creative Director (Advertising)
Assistant Director
Production Manager
Editor

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

A

artistic · AEC

People who enjoy creative expression, leading projects, and meticulously organizing complex tasks often thrive in this dynamic role.

Personality characteristics

Visionary

Eager to explore new ideas, concepts, and storytelling techniques to bring compelling narratives to life.

Decisive Leader

Comfortable leading large teams, making decisive artistic choices, and inspiring others to execute a shared vision.

Organized

Able to manage complex projects, budgets, and schedules while maintaining creative integrity and attention to detail.

Collaborative

Works effectively with diverse personalities and departments, balancing artistic vision with team input and feedback.

Resilient

Maintains composure and focus in high-pressure environments, such as during production challenges or tight deadlines.

Best for

  • Individuals with a strong creative vision who are also natural leaders and excellent communicators.
  • Professionals who thrive in dynamic, fast-paced environments and enjoy overseeing complex projects.
  • Those who are passionate about storytelling and have a meticulous approach to planning and execution.

Watch out for

  • Irregular and long hours are common, especially during production phases, requiring high stamina and dedication.
  • The role involves high-pressure situations and constant problem-solving, which can be demanding.
  • Managing diverse personalities and large teams requires strong interpersonal and diplomatic skills.

A week in the life

A representative working week for a Producer and Director — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.

8am9am10am11am12pm1pm2pm3pm4pm5pm6pm
Mon
Production Planning & Budget Review
Script Development & Storyboarding
Casting Auditions & Talent Meetings
Tue
On-Set Directing & Scene Blocking
Reviewing Dailies & Performance Feedback
Wed
Post-Production Meeting (Editing/Sound)
Marketing & Distribution Strategy Session
Creative Concepting for Future Projects
Thu
Location Scouting & Technical Recce
Stakeholder Update & Investor Relations
Fri
Team Debrief & Project Wrap-up
Administrative Tasks & Correspondence
Deep work Meeting External Social Admin

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