Assistant Director (1st AD) — Client Project

1st Assistant Director (1st AD) — Client Project Aru Labs | Project-based opportunity Aru Labs is looking for a 1st Assistant Director (1st AD) for an upcoming independent web-series project being produced for a client. This is a project-based opportunity, not a permanent position at Aru Labs. The series is a character-driven story exploring startups, ambition, relationships, friendship, money and life. We are looking for someone who can help turn the creative vision into a well-organized, efficient and professionally executed production. What you'll do - Work directly with the Director and DOP during pre-production - Break down scripts and scenes for production - Build the shooting schedule and daily production plan - Prepare call sheets - Coordinate actors, crew and locations - Manage the shooting day and keep the production on schedule - Coordinate with the DOP and other department heads - Help identify production requirements and potential issues before filming - Coordinate production assistants and supporting crew - Communicate schedule changes and requirements across departments - Help keep the production lean, practical and on budget - Support the Director in maintaining a smooth set environment What we're looking for - Previous experience as a 1st AD, 2nd AD, production coordinator or similar production role - Strong understanding of film, television, web-series or commercial production - Excellent organization and communication skills - Comfortable working with a small, independent production team - Strong time-management and problem-solving ability - Comfortable coordinating multiple departments simultaneously - Experience working with independent filmmakers is a plus We're not looking for someone who only knows how to work within a large production company. We want someone who can help build the production structure from the ground up. Working arrangement Remote: Yes, during pre-production Travel: Required during production Engagement: Project-based / contract Production window: Late November – early December Potential locations: San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, London, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Bali and other global creative and startup hubs International and India-based candidates are welcome. Who you'll work with You will work closely with: - Creator / Writer / Director - Director of Photography - Production team - Actors and creative talent - Location and production teams - Sound and post-production teams The production will be intentionally lean and collaborative, with a small core team supported by project-based crew. Ideal candidate You might be a good fit if you: - Enjoy working on independent productions - Can take a script and turn it into a practical shooting plan - Are comfortable making decisions under time pressure - Know how to keep a set moving without creating unnecessary complexity - Enjoy working directly with creative people - Want to help build a new series rather than simply execute an existing studio workflow How to apply Please send: - CV / profile - Previous production experience - Relevant credits or portfolio - LinkedIn / Instagram - Current location - Availability during late November / early December - Expected project fee or day rate Apply with the subject: 1st AD — Web Series Client Project Aru Labs is coordinating this opportunity on behalf of the client. Project-based. Remote-first. Travel required during production. If you're interested in helping build and execute an ambitious independent web series with a lean team, we'd love to hear from you. Originally posted on Himalayas