Job Descriptions

Production Runner Job Description

What is the job description of a Production Runner? What are the duties and responsibilities of a Production Runner? What does a Production Runner do?

Job description of a Production Runner

A production runner is an entry-level position, the most junior role in the production department of a broadcast, film or video company. There is no single job description as runners act as general assistants and undertake whatever basic tasks are required to ensure the smooth running of the production process.

Runners’ general responsibilities include tea making, transporting scripts and hire equipment, taking messages, looking after guests and getting everything in place for shoots.

This Production Runner job description example includes the list of most important Production Runner duties and responsibilities as shown below. It can be modified to fit the specific Production Runner profile you're trying to fill as a recruiter or job seeker.

Production Runner Duties and Responsibilities

Production Runner job description should contain a variety of functions and roles including:

  • Undertaking basic research;
  • Keeping the set clean and tidy;
  • Hiring props;
  • Making arrangements for staff on location, such as booking meeting rooms or ordering food;
  • Ordering stock;
  • Making and handing out tea, coffee and lunches;
  • Fetching and carrying items, such as equipment, tapes, cable and scripts;
  • Transcribing production tapes;
  • Picking up cast for make-up calls;
  • Transporting cast, crew and production staff between offices, studios and shoot locations;
  • Answering the telephone;
  • Photocopying and undertaking general administrative work;
  • Taking care of petty cash;
  • Looking after studio guests;
  • Driving cars, vans or trucks between locations and around sets;
  • Helping set up a location for a shoot;
  • Writing down shot lists;
  • Using maps, tapes and clapper boards, and other film and television production equipment.
  • Handing out post and messages to colleagues within the production team;
  • Delivering post to local clients;
  • Sorting out the kit bags, for example checking that the camera bag contains all the necessary items;

Production Runner Requirements / Skills / Qualifications

Production Runner job description should include these common skills and qualifications:

  • High school diploma
  • A bachelor's degree in media and communication studies, drama or theatre studies or other relevant discipline.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Excellent time management and organisational skills with the ability to work to tight deadlines
  • Flexibility and the ability to think on your feet in order to find practical solutions to logistical problems
  • Ability to prioritise efficiently
  • Ability to network with a range of people (including actors, directors and caterers, among others)
  • Ability to remain calm and perform well under pressure
  • Proactive approach to work
  • Understanding of the industry
  • Good research skills
  • Initiative and problem-solving ability
  • Physical stamina and resilience
  • Teamworking skills
  • Enthusiasm and motivation.

As a hiring manager, recruiting an ideal Production Runner starts with crafting a good job description. Use this Production Runner job description template to save yourself time and help you attract the most qualified candidates. Feel free to revise it to meet your specific needs.

Job seekers interviewing for the role of a Production Runner may also reference it in preparation for the interview.