What is an Archive Producer?
Archive Producers are a key part of the production team, employed especially for working on archive-based films. Many productions will use footage that has been filmed by someone else, and the Archive Producer’s job is to source this content, and secure permission for it to be used in the production.
What is the Job?
The role of Archive Producer will vary from set to set, depending on the film that is being made. Sometimes studios can ask for individuals with specialist knowledge of particular subject, so you may not be able to work on every production.
The role of Archive Producer will involve working with Producers and Editors to determine the archive content needed, as well as managing all selected archival materials. In addition to this, Archive Producers may be responsible for working with Assistant Editors and Associate Producers in the management of archival elements for Editors.
An Archive Producer has similar duties to an Archive Researcher, but with more responsibility.
Key Skills
- Ability to prioritise
- Good organisational skills
- Ability to multi-task
- Knowledge of copyright and clearance procedures
- Persuasive communication skills
- Flexibility
- Ability to work under pressure
Salary & Working Hours
In terms of pay, the daily rate is approximately £180, with the weekly rate being around £900 depending on the project and length of contract.
Most Archive Producers are freelance, so work will be on the basis of short term contracts which can range from a couple of weeks to six months. Therefore, working hours will depend on how often you are working and the scale of the project you are working on.
How To Become an Archive Producer
A good role to start out in if you want to become an Archive Producer is an Archive Researcher. This role will allow you to gain a lot of the skills required for the role of Archive Producer, without the increased level of responsibility. After working as an Archive Researcher and building up experience, you may get the opportunity to move into the role of Archive Producer.
In order to become an Archive Producer, having experience behind you is essential. This may be gained through work experience, part-time jobs, or even volunteering.
Where Can It Take You?
With the role of Archive Producer, there is no set path for career advancement. However, for most, opportunities may arise through being able to work on larger scale productions and working with more well-known production companies and broadcasters. The extent to which career development occurs will depend on the reputation you build for yourself throughout your role.
Become an Archive Producer
If you are ready for the next step in your career, why not take a look at the latest Archive Producer vacancies on our jobs board? You can view our latest vacancies here.