2026 Mill Valley Film Festival Theater Operations Production Assistant

About the role

Theater Operations Production Assistant supports venue-specific operations for the Mill Valley Film Festival, ensuring smooth setup, execution, and breakdown of festival needs within venues. This hands-on role is critical to the daily functioning of our theaters venues, helping uphold the festival's high standard of hospitality, safety, and production quality.

Responsibilities

• Venue Setup & Breakdown
• Assist with load-in/load-out of festival venues including moving equipment and furniture.
• Set up and break down stages, signage, and event spaces before, during and after shows.
• Support installation of venue supplies, branded decor, stanchions, and theater signage.
• Ensure venue setups meet safety and accessibility standards.
• Signage & Branding
• Install, monitor, and strike festival signage and directional banners at assigned venues.
• Ensure brand consistency across all visible materials and signage.
• Technical & Logistical Support
• Help transport and position gear such as speaker systems, lighting, risers, and A/V carts.
• Collaborate with the technical team on room layouts and equipment setup.
• Keep back-of-house and storage areas organized and stocked.
• Event & Patron Support
• Assist with ushering, line management, and audience flow.
• Help backstage and front-of-house teams with guest and talent coordination.
• Support red carpet events, press lines, and special presentations.
• Inventory & Maintenance
• Track equipment and signage inventory during festival operations.
• Keep tools and gear clean, organized, and accounted for throughout the event.
• Maintain general venue cleanliness and professionalism.

Qualifications

• Experience in theater, live events, production, or festivals preferred.
• High level of reliability, attention to detail, and adaptability under pressure.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
• Able to lift/move up to 50 lbs and remain on feet for long periods.
• Familiarity with basic tools and safe lifting techniques.
• Valid driver's license and ability to drive festival vehicles is a plus.

Work Conditions

• Must be available for the full festival window: September 24–October 13, 2026.
• Hours may include early mornings, late nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Work is primarily on-site at venues, both indoors and outdoors, rain or shine.
• Requires frequent walking, lifting, bending, and standing.