How to Move from Set PA to Assistant Director (AD)

Posted on: Jul 10, 2025

Photo Credit: Chalabaia // iStock Photo

By Brendan Fitzgibbons

If you’ve ever worked a gig as a Production Assistant (PA), then you’ve probably done it all: late-night coffee runs, wrangling extras, guarding a location using only a clipboard and vibes, or holding an umbrella for an actor’s dog named “Fairness.” And during one of these chaotic, underpaid moments, you’ve likely asked yourself: “Can I do anything but this?”

Good news — yes, you absolutely can. One natural next step in your production career is becoming an Assistant Director (AD). Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you transition from set PA to trusted AD, covering essential skills, resume strategies, and the kind of networking that actually works.

Key Insights:

Excelling as a PA builds the foundation for becoming a trusted and promotable AD.
Understanding the AD department hierarchy and showcasing leadership early is key.
Strategic networking and resume-building can fast-track your path to the AD role.

1. Master the PA Role (and Take Names)

Before you fly, you have to walk—and that’s what the PA role is. While often considered an entry-level position, PAs are the unsung heroes who can make or break a set.

So treat it like it matters. Be on time, hustle, take mental notes, and say yes to every task. But more importantly, observe your AD. Learn their lingo (e.g., the difference between “rolling” and “rolling on rehearsal”) and watch how they manage chaos with calm precision. You’ll gain insight into how they motivate a crew, run a tight schedule, and keep things moving—even when the actors are doing bits and no one can stop laughing.

Be proactive, be helpful, and be the PA people remember for the right reasons. That’s how you earn referrals and callbacks.

2. Learn the Chain of Command

If you’re aiming to become a 1st AD, you’ll likely move through roles like Key PA, 2nd 2nd AD, and 2nd AD along the way. While the hierarchy may vary depending on the production, understanding the typical AD ladder will help you navigate it strategically.

Key PA: Leads other PAs and is the primary link to the 2nd AD.
2nd 2nd AD: Manages background talent and second unit logistics.
2nd AD: Handles call sheets, talent movement, and supports the 1st AD.
1st AD: Oversees the set, schedule, safety, and communication—like an air traffic controller with a clipboard (and often, the patience of a therapist).

The good news? If you’re reliable, well-connected, and excellent at oat milk orders, you can skip steps. But knowing the structure helps you plan ahead.

3. Build Your Résumé and Portfolio Strategically

If you want to be seen as an AD, you’ll need to start highlighting AD-adjacent experience on your résumé. Instead of just listing “PA,” go deeper:

“Assisted with creating and distributing call sheets”
“Supported 2nd AD with background coordination and talent logistics”
“Helped manage on-set flow during multi-location shoot”

Keep a running document of your credits and tasks—those details will make a big difference later. And if you’ve built a solid rapport with an AD, ask for a recommendation. A respected industry reference can open far more doors than a LinkedIn headline ever will.

4. Develop Essential AD Skills

Leadership is the #1 most important skill you’ll need—and you don’t need a formal title to start showing it. Take initiative on set, guide other PAs, and handle background actors with calm, respectful authority.

Next, get familiar with scheduling software like Movie Magic Scheduling. Study how production days are structured and start practicing your own sample call sheets or shoot breakdowns.

And finally: master time management. An AD’s main job is keeping every department on schedule—even when lunch is late or the next scene takes place beside a surprise drum circle.

5. Network Like a Pro

Your next job often comes from your last one. Stay in touch with 2nd and 1st ADs you’ve worked under. Don’t just ask for work—ask how you can help them. Use your judgment here: be persistent, but not annoying.

Also, join Facebook groups or forums for indie filmmakers, ADs, and union crew. Go to wrap parties, mixers, and film festivals. Networking doesn’t mean being fake—it means showing up, being kind, and staying curious. Ask thoughtful questions. Send a thank-you. People remember generosity and genuine interest far more than elevator pitches.

Final Takeaways:

Treat your PA job like an audition for your AD future—be reliable, observant, and proactive.
Understand the AD hierarchy and align your resume with the responsibilities of each level.
Build your leadership, scheduling, and time management skills early—and network with intention.

Brendan Fitzgibbons is a comedy writer and actor living in Los Angeles. He’s written for Comedy Central, The Onion, NBC, HuffPost and Bravo. As an actor, he’s appeared on Comedy Central, MTV and “Full Frontal with Samantha Bee.” His podcast, “Spiritual As****e” was named a Top Indie Podcast by Stitcher.

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