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 Creator / Writer / Director
Director of Photography
Production team
Actors and creative talent
Location and production teams
Sound and post-production teams
Ideal candidate 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
