Filmmaking Mentor

Youth Cinema Project Filmmaking MentorPart-Time / ContractLocation: Los Angeles school sitesProgram Term: February 16, 2026 - June 30, 2026Program OverviewThe Youth Cinema Project (YCP) is a project-based learning program of the Latino Film Institute that provides in-school filmmaking instruction to students in public schools. The program focuses on the creation of short-form digital content, including narrative public service announcements (PSAs) and other student-driven media projects.YCP Filmmaking Mentors are professional filmmakers who teach 90-minute classes, twice per week, during the regular school day to students in grades 5-12. Each class is supported by two YCP Mentors working collaboratively, alongside a credentialed classroom teacher and/or instructional aide assigned by the school district.Mentors guide students through the full filmmaking process-from concept to final edit-using YCP-provided curriculum and lesson plans. Programs culminate with a student film screening opportunity at the Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival (LALIFF).Mentors can expect to work approximately 7-14 hours per week, including classroom instruction, required preparation time, and supplemental duties as assigned.Key ResponsibilitiesInstruction & Classroom EngagementCo-teach filmmaking classes twice weekly (90 minutes per session) in a public school classroom during regular school hoursDeliver instruction in:Screenwriting and story developmentStoryboarding and pre-productionCasting and directingProduction (camera, sound, lighting)Editing and post-productionSupport students in producing short-form narrative and PSA-style contentFoster a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment in collaboration with:A co-mentorCredentialed classroom teachersSchool administrators and staffPreparation & Supplemental DutiesComplete required preparation time prior to each class session using YCP-provided curriculum and lesson plansParticipate in supplemental paid hours outside of instructional time as assignedAttend all required:Mentor orientationsTrainings and professional development sessionsProgram meetings and check-insProgram Deliverables & AssessmentEnsure timely completion of all class deliverables, including:ScriptsEdited filmsRequired documentation and reportsAssist YCP staff with program assessment and data collection as requested by the DistrictProfessional Conduct & CollaborationMaintain clear and timely communication with YCP administration and school personnelBuild and maintain positive rapport with students, educators, administrators, and fellow mentorsAdhere to all YCP policies, Mentor Handbook guidelines, and district site rulesSupport inventory, care, and basic oversight of classroom film equipment as requiredMinimum QualificationsMinimum 3 years of professional experience in the film industry, including roles such as producer, director, or below-the-line positionsExpertise in at least one area of filmmaking (e.g., directing, cinematography, editing, sound, producing)Working knowledge of video editing sufficient to edit short-form contentBachelor's degree in Film or a closely related fieldComfort working in a K-12 public school environmentStrong communication, collaboration, and classroom management skillsProficiency with Google Workspace (Docs, Drive, Sheets)Ability to commute up to 50 miles (mileage reimbursed)Preferred QualificationsFilm school graduatePrevious teaching, mentoring, or youth development experienceExperience with:DaVinci ResolveFrame.ioDropboxAdvanced working knowledge of:Camera and audio equipmentFilm set logisticsStory structure and visual storytellingBasic working knowledge of grip and electric equipmentMandatory Pre-Employment BootcampAll candidates must complete a required Bootcamp training program prior to being offered a Mentor roleBootcamp includes a pass/fail assessment evaluating:Teaching structure comprehensionProfessional demeanor and classroom readinessBootcamp Pay: $17.87/hourMentor Pay (post-Bootcamp): $31.80/hourCompletion of Bootcamp does not guarantee placementPre-Employment RequirementsDOJ LiveScan fingerprinting and criminal background checkTB testCompletion of required state-mandated trainings (paid at training rate)Valid auto insurancePhysical RequirementsAbility to lift and carry up to 40 lbs of film equipmentRegular standing, bending, kneeling, and light outdoor workClear speaking voice capable of projecting in a classroom settingCompensation & SchedulePay Rate: $31.80/hour (post-Bootcamp)Job Type: Part-time, ContractSchedule: Monday-Friday, daytime hoursBenefits: 401(k), flexible schedulingEqual Employment OpportunityLatino Film Institute Youth Cinema Project is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.

Created: 2026-04-02