Filmmaking Mentor - Seasonal Summer Instructor

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Seasonal Calistoga, CA, US

30+ days ago Requisition

The Youth Cinema Project (YCP) is a project-based learning program that teaches filmmaking to youth in public schools during the regular school year and summer sessions.

YCP Summer Mentors are professional filmmakers who lead immersive, hands‑on film classes for students in grades 5–12. During the summer term, mentors guide students through an accelerated filmmaking experience, supporting them in developing, producing, and completing short film projects within a condensed timeline.

Mentors work collaboratively with a co‑mentor to implement YCP’s curriculum while fostering a creative, supportive, and inclusive classroom environment.

• Program Dates:
  July 6 – June 31, 2026
• Paid Training:
  June (required prior to placement)
• 4 hours of instruction per day
• 1 hour of prep per day
• 1 hour of supplemental/admin time per day
• 24 - 30 hours per week

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in the film industry (producer, director, or below-the-line roles)
• Expertise in at least one area of filmmaking
• Candidates MUST have editing experience - comfortable in editing simple short content.
• Proficiency in Google Workspace
• Comfortable working in a school environment teaching children.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• Ability to foster a positive and inclusive learning environment
• Help youth develop life skills such as communication, problem‑solving, and decision‑making
• Provide emotional support and encouragement to youth facing challenges

• Position based in Calistoga , CA
• Must have a valid driver’s license, auto insurance, and reliable transportation
• Travel up to 50 miles may be required (mileage reimbursed)

• Associate’s degree in Film or related field (Required)

• Previous teaching experience, a plus
• Experience with DaVinci Resolve, Frame.io, Dropbox
• Advanced working knowledge of camera and audio equipment
• Basic working knowledge of G&E equipment
• Advanced working knowledge of film set logistics
• Intermediate to Advanced working knowledge of film story structure

• Teach an accelerated summer film program in a classroom setting
• Attend all YCP trainings and professional development meetings
• Collaborate with co‑mentor to deliver curriculum effectively
• Prepare daily lesson plans using provided materials
• Guide students through all stages of filmmaking (development → production → post)
• Ensure completion of class deliverables (scripts, films, etc.)
• Track and submit program data and materials in a timely manner
• Build and maintain positive relationships with students and school staff
• Maintain consistent communication with YCP administration
• Conduct equipment inventory and ensure proper use of gear
• Support youth in developing life skills such as communication, collaboration, and problem‑solving

Mandatory training prior to hire

Assessment Criteria:

• Understanding of teaching structure and curriculum delivery
• Professionalism, communication, and classroom presence

• Training Pay: $17.28/hour
• Mentor Pay (post-certification): $31.80/hour

Successful trainees will be offered a Mentor role and assigned to a summer site.

• Ability to lift/carry up to 40 lbs of equipment
• Ability to stand for extended periods
• Frequent bending, kneeling, pushing, and pulling
• Ability to project voice clearly in a classroom setting

• Resume
• 3 samples of film work

• Candidates must complete:
• Background check
• Live Scan fingerprinting
• TB test
• Proof of valid auto insurance
• Required trainings (e.g., sexual harassment prevention, mandated reporter) will be compensated at the training rate.

The Latino Film Institute Youth Cinema Project is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, gender, religion, age, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under federal, state, or local law.