Shorts Programmer (seasonal)

About the role

Tribeca is seeking a Seasonal Shorts Programmer to join the Programming team for the 2027 Tribeca Festival. Reporting to the VP, Shorts Programming, this role will play an active part in reviewing and evaluating short film submissions, developing and curating shorts programs, identifying emerging filmmakers and storytellers, and helping shape a compelling shorts lineup for the Festival. The Shorts Programmer will bring a strong knowledge of the short film landscape, a thoughtful curatorial perspective, and an understanding of what creates both audience excitement and industry interest.

The role will work collaboratively with the Shorts Programming team throughout the selection and programming process and will participate in Festival events and activities related to the shorts program. This is a seasonal position from September - June and requires regular film screening and evaluation, participation in weekly programming meetings, and on-site involvement during the 2027 Tribeca Festival.

About you

The ideal candidate has deep knowledge of the short film landscape and experience programming or evaluating short films, preferably within a film festival environment. You are excited by the opportunity to discover new films and storytellers and understand the responsibility involved in evaluating a large submission pool and helping shape it into a highly selective Festival program. You bring creativity and imagination to curation and enjoy exploring how individual films can be brought together around themes, ideas, and perspectives to create thought-provoking and memorable audience experiences. You are equally comfortable working independently and collaborating with a broader programming team.

Responsibilities

• Review, evaluate, and recommend short film submissions for consideration for the 2027 Tribeca Festival.
• Contribute to the curation of short film programs, including identifying programming themes and recommending ways films can be paired to create compelling audience experiences.
• Participate actively in Shorts Programming meetings and discussions throughout the review, selection, and programming process.
• Identify and track promising short films in development, production, or as works in progress that may be appropriate for submission to the Festival.
• Track shortlisted projects for eligibility, premiere status, and other Festival requirements.
• Develop and maintain relationships with filmmakers, producers, and other creatives while continuing to build new relationships that expand Tribeca’s network of storytellers.
• Communicate with prospective and selected filmmakers and serve as a knowledgeable point of contact regarding Tribeca’s submission and shorts selection process.
• Build relationships with relevant cultural and arts organizations that may support filmmaker outreach and engagement.
• Work with the seasonal Shorts screening team, monitor highly rated films, and help organize regular discussions of recommendations, emerging themes, and program ideas.
• Maintain accurate film and programming information within the Festival database, including entering and updating film information, assigning films for screening as needed, and generating reports.
• Participate in short film programming and events throughout the 2027 Tribeca Festival, including introducing films, participating in Q&As, and attending talks, screenings, and industry events.

Requirements

• 3–5 years of experience in the film industry, preferably including short film programming or programming for film festivals.
• Strong knowledge of the short film landscape and an understanding of festival programming and selection.
• Familiarity with Tribeca’s Shorts Programming and curatorial approach.
• Established industry relationships with filmmakers, producers, distributors, sales agents, and other industry professionals.
• Strong curatorial judgment and the ability to evaluate films thoughtfully, consistently, impartially, and fairly.
• Ability to watch, review, and provide recommendations on a high volume of short films according to established deadlines.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and comfort collaborating through Slack and other team communication tools.
• Ability to work autonomously, exercise sound judgment, and take ownership of assigned areas of work.
• Strong relationship-building skills and the ability to engage effectively with filmmakers, industry professionals, and colleagues.
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• This is a hybrid position requiring on-site work at Tribeca’s New York City office a minimum of three (3) days per week, as well as additional on-site availability during the 2027 Tribeca Festival.

Pay

$1,100–$1,275 per week