Filmmaking Mentor

Job Title
Youth Cinema Project Filmmaker Mentor – Summer (Seasonal)Job Description

Overview
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.

Summer Schedule & Commitment
Program Dates: June 1 – June 26, 2026

Paid Training: Mid‑May (required prior to placement)

4–5 days per week

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 Requirements

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
Experienced editors comfortable editing simple short content
Proficiency in Google Workspace
Comfortable teaching children in a school environment
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

Education

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

Preferred Qualifications

Film School graduate, a plus
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

Duties & Responsibilities

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

Pre‑Employment Bootcamp

Mandatory training prior to hire
Pass/Fail evaluation
Assessment Criteria: Understanding of teaching structure and curriculum delivery, Professionalism, communication, and classroom presence, Training

Compensation

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

Physical Requirements

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

Additional Requirements

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

Equal Employment Opportunity
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.

Job Details

Job Type: Part‑Time, Contract
Pay: $31.80 /hour
Schedule: Day shift – Monday – Friday (no weekends)
Work Location: In‑person (Stockton)

Compensation Details
31.8 Hourly Wage