Jobs and Volunteer Opportunities

At Rooftop Films, we believe that film is powerful, not only as a creative medium, but as a vehicle for engaging in valuable dialogue with one another about the issues facing our communities. By bringing films directly to audiences, we foster connections between neighbors, artists, activists, youth and the unique spaces we all share. 

A growing nonprofit organization, our mission at Rooftop Films is to engage and inspire diverse communities by showcasing the work of emerging filmmakers in outdoor locations, helping filmmakers to produce new films, and renting equipment & supporting film screenings citywide at low-cost to artists, nonprofits and community groups.

Rooftop Films is more than a film festival. We are a community. For over 27 years, Rooftop Films has been championing the work of independent filmmakers and bringing films rooted in compassion, solidarity, learning, togetherness, exploration, and inspiration to tens of thousands of people across all five boroughs of New York City. 

We would love to have you join our team!

Now Accepting Applications for the Following Positions:


Volunteer Coordinator (Seasonal)

Rooftop Films is looking for a Volunteer Coordinator to take a crucial role in the operations of our 28th anniversary Summer Series film festival, taking place May through August 2024 at outdoor locations throughout NYC. The Volunteer Coordinator will be the liaison to our growing volunteer base who assist us in putting on our events all summer. The person in this position will work with the Operations Manager and Venue Manager, in addition to all other auxiliary staff  to ensure that this aspect of our shows runs smoothly. 

The Volunteer Coordinator will also maintain morale among the volunteers and create a fun work environment. We are looking for a candidate who has availability for part time work in April with a transition to full time in late April/May, through early September.

Roles and Responsibilities: 

  • Event Planning
    • Create and execute volunteer recruitment plan, incentives, and outreach strategies
    • Work with corporate, social, civic and community organizations to develop partnerships to recruit volunteers.
    • Obtain in-kind sponsorships for volunteer meals, community deals
    • Maintain a volunteer database for tracking information, hours, roles and event participation.
    • Plan volunteer orientations and create volunteer manuals.
    • Maintain ongoing communication with volunteers including social media and weekly emails.
    • Schedule volunteers based on event and venue needs.
    • Update and communicate with event staff and senior staff on volunteer related issues.
    • Focus on trends in retention rates of the volunteer base 
  • On-Site at Events
    • Welcome and lead volunteers on venue walk-throughs.
    • Inspire volunteers and maintain a fun work environment.
    • Equip volunteers with all necessary information of venue and event staff in order for them to be an informative representative to patrons  
    • Utilize skills-based volunteer methods-evaluate the strengths of individuals and place them accordingly. 
    • Rotate stations, check-in, and lead volunteers throughout the course of the event.
    • Facilitate meals for Volunteers & other on-site staff 
    • Assist the Venue Manager with other aspects of event execution as needed. 
    • Assist the Lead Technicians and Venue Manager with breakdown of events

Start Date: April 2024

Application Deadline: March 29, 2024

Compensation:

Compensation is $900 – $960 per week, commensurate with experience. The contract period will be mid-April through mid-September for the full duration of the 2024 Summer Series and one week of wrap.

Rooftop Films is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to building a culturally diverse staff and an inclusive work environment, and strongly encourages people of all backgrounds, abilities, gender expressions, ethnicities, races, sexual orientations, religions, and nationalities to apply.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit résumé, cover letter and references in a single Word or PDF document saved as candidate’s first and last name with subject VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR to jobs@rooftopfilms.com. Only applications submitted in this format will be reviewed. No phone calls, please. Applications are due by March 29th, 2024.


Venue Manager (Seasonal)

Rooftop Films is looking for a Venue Manager to take a crucial role in the production and operations of our 28th anniversary Summer Series film festival, taking place May through August 2024 at outdoor locations throughout NYC. This is a flexible, creative position, employing a variety of skills. The Venue Manager will assist with in-office preparations for and on-site management of all Rooftop Films Summer Series screenings. We are looking for a candidate who has availability for part time work in April with a transition to full time in late April/May, through early September.

Responsibilities include pre-season preparations, permitting, liaison to sponsors, execution of sponsorship activations, as well as supporting the Operations Manager in general event preparation and execution as needed. Rooftop screens in multiple locations that require unique event management systems and procedures; since there are many venues, each with their own particulars, certain basics change from venue to venue. This position reports directly to the Operations Manager.

Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • On-Site Event Management
    • Act as primary liaison between Rooftop Films staff and venue operator/staff to ensure clear communication and that all venue procedures are adhered. 
    • Oversee internal and external security staff in audience safety procedures and reinforce social distancing policies (per city and state guidelines)
    • Coordinate with venue staff and Box Office Coordinator to create a plan for audience traffic flow and procedures
    • Coordinate with Operations Manager and Technical Manager to ensure adequate PPE inventory is maintained and distributed to staff.
    • Manage and lead event support staff 
      • Work  with Box Office Coordinator to ensure smooth check in and audience load in procedures
      • Coordinate with external venue staff and Box Office Coordinator to create and execute audience traffic flow and procedures
      • Supervise set-up of any necessary tables, tents, or other supplies/staging needed for Rooftop Films staff, vendors, and sponsors
      • Oversee crowd flow, ushering, security, audience relations, permit compliance, and safety protocols
      • Oversee daily cleaning procedures and coordinate with third party vendors for deep cleaning as needed
  • Event Planning
    • In collaboration with the Operations Manager, and other office FOH staff, the Venue Manager will be responsible for the following in relation to events:
      • Assist with securing venue and event permitting (D.O.B, Parks Dept., Catering, etc.)
      • Financial management: track and manage show related expenditures.
      • Coordinate with security, cleaning, facilities and other vendors as needed
      • Create support staff weekly schedules and approve bi-weekly payroll
      • Create and distribute daily event schedules to all staff, venue contacts and partners, as needed
      • Coordinate weekly department meetings with FOH seasonal staff 
      • Arrange weekly production meetings with Technical staff to review inter-department planning, event production schedules, and weather accommodations (when applicable).

Qualifications:

  • Minimum 3 years event production, house management, venue operations management and/or film festival experience.
  • Possess flexibility, strong organizational, project management, writing and verbal communication skills.
  • Be culturally engaged. A familiarity with and interest in independent film is a plus.
  • An understanding and dedication to our mission.
  • Ability to thrive in a small team environment, to take responsibility and to meet tight deadlines.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with internal staff and external constituencies at all levels. 
  • Supervisory/training experience preferred.
  • Basic computer skills required, including spreadsheets and databases; familiarity with Adobe Creative a plus.
  • Ability to work flexible hours as required, including evenings and weekends.
  • Understanding of and experience securing permits a plus.

Start Date: April 2024

Application Deadline: March 29, 2024

Compensation:

Compensation is $960 – $1100 per week. The contract period will be mid-April through mid-September for the full duration of the 2023 Summer Series and one week of wrap.

Rooftop Films is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to building a culturally diverse staff and an inclusive work environment, and strongly encourages people of all backgrounds, abilities, gender expressions, ethnicities, races, sexual orientations, religions, and nationalities to apply.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit résumé, cover letter and references in a single Word or PDF document saved as candidate’s first and last name with subject VENUE MANAGER to jobs@rooftopfilms.com. Only applications submitted in this format will be reviewed. No phone calls, please. Applications are due by March 29th, 2024.


Box Office & Membership Coordinator (Seasonal)

Rooftop Films is looking for a Box Office & Membership Coordinator to take a crucial role in the production and operations of our 28th anniversary Summer Series film festival, taking place May through August 2024 at outdoor locations throughout NYC. This is a flexible, creative position, employing a variety of skills. The position is full-time, working both in the office and on-site at our Summer Series shows on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and some additional weeknights. We are looking for a candidate who has availability for part time work in April with a transition to full time in May, through early September.

Under the supervision of the Operations Manager, the Box Office Coordinator will be responsible for overseeing online ticket sales, managing guest lists and ensuring smooth execution of the box office and line management on site at events, as well as supporting the Venue Manager in general event preparation and execution as needed. Rooftop screens in multiple locations that require unique event management systems and procedures; since there are many venues, each with their own particulars, certain basics change from venue to venue. 

We are looking for someone creative, energetic, forward thinking, and committed. Strong organizational, communication, and customer service skills are a must, and previous box office and theater/house management experience is preferred. It is imperative that the person in this position be able to multi-task, manage time and people, be able to work collaboratively with internal staff and external constituencies at all levels.  He or she must possess solid writing and verbal communication skills, as well as the ability to think of new ways to impact our events and streamline processes. 

Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Ensure smooth execution of box office and audience load in:
    • Manage set-up and supervise staffing of Box Office areas.
    • Oversee crowd flow and line management.
    • Oversee Box Office Assistant Venue Managers and line management volunteers.
    • Oversee check in of VIP guest list, members, and ticket buyers.
    • Work with Venue Manager and Assistant Venue Managers to manage on site sales and stand by lines.
    • Hospitality (talent, sponsors, VIP guest list, Rooftop Films members, etc.).
    • Assist the Venue Manager with other aspects of event execution as needed. 
  • Event preparation and office responsibilities:
    • Track and report to event and senior staff, ticket sales and event attendance numbers on a daily basis. 
    • Assist the Development Manager in maintaining membership database and ongoing membership communications
    • Coordinate with the Communications Manager on creation and management of VIP and special event invitations
    • Attend weekly department meetings and weekly marketing meetings
    • Alongside the Festival Assistant, support the Venue Manager(s) in preparing and packing show materials, creating signage and other logistics as needed.
    • Summer Series “wrap-up” and paperwork at the end of the summer.
    • Coordinate with programming department on talent arrivals, reserved seating, and filmmaker / distributor requests 

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Minimum 2 years event production, house management, venue operations management and/or film festival experience.
  • Possess flexibility, strong organizational, customer service, project management, writing and verbal communication skills.
  • Be culturally engaged. A familiarity with and interest in independent film is a plus.
  • An understanding and dedication to our mission.
  • Ability to thrive in a small team environment, to take responsibility and to meet tight deadlines.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with internal staff and external constituencies at all levels. 
  • Basic computer skills required, including spreadsheets and databases; familiarity with Adobe Creative and online ticketing platforms is a plus.
  • Ability to work flexible hours as required, including evenings and weekends.

Start Date: mid-April 2024

Application Deadline: March 29, 2024

Compensation:

Compensation is approximately $900 – $960 per week for 19 weeks, commensurate with experience. The contract period will be mid-April through mid-September for the full duration of the 2022 Summer Series and one week of wrap.

Rooftop Films is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to building a culturally diverse staff and an inclusive work environment, and strongly encourages people of all backgrounds, abilities, gender expressions, ethnicities, races, sexual orientations, religions, and nationalities to apply.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit résumé, cover letter and references in a single Word or PDF document saved as candidate’s first and last name with subject BOX OFFICE & MEMBERSHIP COORDINATOR to jobs@rooftopfilms.com. Only applications submitted in this format will be reviewed. No phone calls, please. Applications are due by March 29, 2024.


Technical Coordinator (Seasonal)

Rooftop Films is looking for a Technical Coordinator to take a crucial role in the production of our Summer Series film festival, taking place May through September 2024 at outdoor locations throughout NYC, as well as coordinating equipment rental and consulting events. This position reports to the Technical Manager.

Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Event Production
    • Assist technical manager with production for internal and contracted events, which span 40-50 internally programmed screenings in addition another 30-40 screenings with recurring rental clients in a vendor capacity.
    • Creating pack lists and daily priority schedule on a weekly basis based on event calendar
    • Assisting in email and phone correspondence with contracted clients in anticipation of upcoming events
    • Creating detailed informational show schedules, priority lists, and site-specific details on an event-by-event basis for dissemination to freelance technicians and stagehands. Incorporating schedules and Runs of Show from the Operations Department into the daily schedules, collaborating with Operations staff to streamline load-ins and load-outs
    • Maintaining daily schedule and detailed oriented daily task list with technical event staff
    • Proactively engaging with on-site technical teams to troubleshoot problems and find working solutions
    • Assist with hiring and training of technical staff for internal and externally contracted events
    • Assist with event staff scheduling and bi-weekly payroll
  • Equipment Rentals
    • Assist Technical Manager with fielding inquiries from potential clients
    • Coordinate equipment flow and inventory
    • Prepare orders for pick-up
    • Schedule deliveries and pick-ups
    • Check equipment in and quality control
    • Maintain and update rentals calendar
    • Conduct site visits
    • Work with clients to determine their technical needs and draft rental proposals
    • Work with subcontractors and vendors to fulfill client’s needs where we can’t
    • Coordinate reservations, scheduling and payments for rental sub-contracts (vehicles, or subrented A/V equipment)

Qualifications:

  • Minimum 2 years event production experience
  • Possess flexibility, strong organizational, customer service, project management, writing and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to thrive in a small team environment, troubleshoot, problem solve, remain flexible under pressure, take responsibility and meet tight deadlines.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with internal staff and external constituencies at all levels.
  • Basic computer skills required, including spreadsheets and databases.
  • Ability to work flexible hours as required, including evenings and weekends.
  • Must possess a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record, as well as a willingness to drive cargo vans, 14’, 16′, and 21′ box trucks.
  • Ability to lift 25 lbs independently and to safely lift 50 lbs with assistance.
  • Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Adaptable to a flexible work schedule, including nights and weekends.
  • Familiarity with professional audio/visual technology and equipment is a plus. This includes digital projection, analog and digital video signal routing, inflatable and folding projection screens, and sound reinforcement.

Start Date: April 17, 2024
Application Deadline: March 29, 2024

Compensation:
Compensation is approximately $1040 – 1150 per week commensurate with experience and based on a 5 day per week schedule April 17th through September 30th. During the summer festival season, 5 day schedule may include 1 weekend day on with commensurate weekday off.

Rooftop Films is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to building a culturally diverse staff and an inclusive work environment, and strongly encourages people of all backgrounds, abilities, gender expressions, ethnicities, races, sexual orientations, religions, and nationalities to apply. Applications are due by March 29, 2024.

Application Process:
Interested candidates should submit résumé, cover letter and references in a single Word or PDF document saved as candidate’s first and last name with subject TECHNICAL COORDINATOR to jobs@rooftopfilms.com. Only applications submitted in this format will be reviewed. No phone calls, please. Applications are due by March 29, 2024.


Video Technician/Engineer (Seasonal)

Rooftop Films is looking for an Video Engineer to take a crucial role in the production of our Summer Series film festival, taking place in May through August 2024 at outdoor locations throughout NYC. Video Engineers install, operate, and troubleshoot video equipment (digital projectors, HDMI switchers and splitters, display monitors, playback management software) for Rooftop Films’ Summer Series outdoor screenings. Under the supervision of our lead technicians, video engineers setup, calibrate and breakdown our video systems, and run video for feature, documentary, and short film programs.

Video engineers meet on-site at one of our many venues and work through the set-up and breakdown of the event and leave from the site. Because we screen in all 5 boroughs and occasionally out-of-state applicants should be prepared for a variety of work environments. Please note: This is NOT a photography or camera operation position, and applicants need not apply based on a skill set as such.

Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Assist Lead Technician, and Audio Engineer with the staging and setup of A/V equipment.
  • Assembly and disassembly of rigging for projection, including the set-up of video components at the tech table.
  • Calibrating and assessing projection ranges and determining which lenses are suitable.
  • Able to troubleshoot and quickly make adjustments before screenings.
  • Recovery and organization of equipment at end of night.

Qualifications:

  • Experience operating, configuring, and keystoning projectors.
  • Experience with video switching.
  • Experience with Playback Pro and Macs
  • Knowledge of optimal projection placement.
  • Ability to lift 25 lbs independently and to safely lift 50 lbs with assistance.
  • Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Adaptable to a flexible work schedule, including nights and weekends.
  • Ability to troubleshoot, problem solve, and remain flexible under pressure.
  • Willingness to play a fluid role as part of a small, tight-knit team, balancing professionalism and a great sense of humor.

Experience with any of the following a plus, but not required:

  • Working with DCP/DCI Compliant projection systems
  • Working with surround sound setups
  • Working with outdoor screening setups
  • Projection Mapping

Start Date: May 2024
Application Deadline: March 29, 2024

Compensation:
Compensation is $28 per hourto start (but negotiable and commensurate with experience) and video engineers can expect to work between 25 and 40 hours per week June through August. Excellent technicians may have the opportunity to work with us again in the winter season.
Rooftop Films is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to building a culturally diverse staff and an inclusive work environment, and strongly encourages people of all backgrounds, abilities, gender expressions, ethnicities, races, sexual orientations, religions, and nationalities to apply.

Application Process:
Interested candidates should submit résumé, cover letter and references in a single Word or PDF document saved as candidate’s first and last name with subject VIDEO ENGINEER to jobs@rooftopfilms.com. Only applications submitted in this format will be reviewed. No phone calls, please. Applications are due by March 29, 2024.


Audio Engineer (Seasonal)

Rooftop Films is looking for an Audio Engineer to take a crucial role in the production of our Summer Series film festival, taking place May through August 2024 at outdoor locations throughout NYC. Audio Engineers install, operate, and troubleshoot audio equipment for Rooftop Films’ Summer Series outdoor screenings. Under the supervision of our lead technicians, audio engineers setup, calibrate and breakdown our audio systems, and run audio or a feature or short film program as well as sound check and mix a band before our screenings.

Audio engineers meet on-site at one of our many venues and work through the breakdown of the event and leave from the site. Because we screen in all 5 boroughs and occasionally out-of-state applicants should be prepared for a variety of work environments.

Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Assist Lead Technician, Projectionist with the staging and setup of A/V equipment.
  • Assembly and disassembly of fast-fold and inflatable screens
  • Recovery and organization of equipment at end of night

Qualifications:

  • Experience operating and configuring digital consoles (X32 or M32 preferred, but not required)
  • Experience with front of house and foldback mixing for live music
  • Knowledge of optimal speaker placement and gain structure for live sound
  • Ability to lift and carry 60 lbs
  • Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Adaptable to a flexible work schedule, including nights and weekends.
  • Familiarity with professional audio/visual technology and equipment a plus. This includes digital projection, analog and digital video signal routing, inflatable and folding projection screens, and sound reinforcement.
  • Ability to troubleshoot, problem solve, and remain flexible under pressure.
  • Willingness to play a fluid role as part of a small, tight-knit team, balancing professionalism and a great sense of humor.

Start Date: May 2024
Application Deadline: March 29, 2024

Compensation:
Compensation is $28 per hour to start (but negotiable and commensurate with experience) and audio engineers can expect to work between 25 and 40 hours per week June through August. Excellent technicians may have the opportunity to work with us again in the winter season.
Rooftop Films is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to building a culturally diverse staff and an inclusive work environment, and strongly encourages people of all backgrounds, abilities, gender expressions, ethnicities, races, sexual orientations, religions, and nationalities to apply.

Application Process:
Interested candidates should submit résumé, cover letter and references in a single Word or PDF document saved as candidate’s first and last name with subject AUDIO ENGINEER to jobs@rooftopfilms.com. Only applications submitted in this format will be reviewed. No phone calls, please. Applications are due by March 29, 2024.


Stagehands (Seasonal)

Rooftop Films is looking for Stagehands to take a crucial role in the production of our Summer Series film festival, taking place May through August 2024 at outdoor locations throughout NYC. Stagehands transport, install, operate, and troubleshoot audio, visual, and lighting equipment for Rooftop Films’ Summer Series outdoor screenings. Under the supervision of our AV technicians, PAs aid in the assembly of our outdoor AV exhibition systems and are primarily responsible for the transportation and setup of equipment, including our outdoor movie screens.

Stagehands meet at our offices in Gowanus, Brooklyn for load-out and transportation of equipment to the site for setup or arrive on-site to work through the run of show, concluding with load-in at the end of the night. Because we screen in all 5 boroughs and occasionally out-of-state PAs should be prepared for a variety of work environments.

Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  •     Pulling and packing equipment in an organized and efficient manner from our shop into     vehicles.
  •     Safe transportation of equipment to venue.
  •     Assist Lead Technician, Audio Engineer and Projectionist with the staging and setup of A/V equipment.
  •     Assembly and disassembly of fast-fold and inflatable screens.
  •     Recovery and organization of equipment at end of night, including the return of vehicles.

Qualifications:

  •     Must possess a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record, as well as a willingness to drive cargo vans, 14’, 16′, and 21′ box trucks.
  •     Ability to lift 25 lbs independently and to safely lift 50 lbs with assistance.
  •     Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  •     Adaptable to a flexible work schedule, including nights and weekends.
  •     Familiarity with professional audio/visual technology and equipment a plus. This includes digital projection, analog and digital video signal routing, inflatable and folding projection screens, and sound reinforcement.
  •     Ability to troubleshoot, problem solve, and remain flexible under pressure. 
  •     Willingness to play a fluid role as part of a small, tight-knit team, balancing professionalism and a great sense of humor.

Start Date: May 2024
Application Deadline: March 29, 2024

Compensation:
Compensation is $20 per hour and stagehands can expect to work between 25 and 40 hours per week June through August. Excellent technicians may have the opportunity to work with us again in the winter season.
Rooftop Films is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to building a culturally diverse staff and an inclusive work environment, and strongly encourages people of all backgrounds, abilities, gender expressions, ethnicities, races, sexual orientations, religions, and nationalities to apply.

Application Process:
Interested candidates should submit résumé, cover letter and references in a single Word or PDF document saved as candidate’s first and last name with subject STAGEHANDS to jobs@rooftopfilms.com. Only applications submitted in this format will be reviewed. No phone calls, please. Applications are due by March 29, 2024.


Volunteer Opportunities

As a non-profit arts organization, we depend on volunteers for our growth and success! Working with Rooftop is a great opportunity to see fantastic movies (for free, of course!), learn about the inner workings of film festivals, get to know our staff, and meet the artists whose work we screen. We consistently seek volunteers for over 40 shows during our Summer Series—and you can help out at as many or as few as you’d like to.

If you’re interested in volunteering, please register here.
(Just follow the link, click “Join Organization” in upper right hand corner, then select “register new account.”)