SFFILM

The Bay Area's home for the world's finest films and filmmakers.

Archives for 2025

Operations Intern

We are no longer accepting applications for this position.

Summary

The SFFILM Operations Department is looking for a high-energy, dependable, organized team player to integrate into day-to-day activities leading up to and during our 2026 SFFILM Festival. This intern will work closely with the Operations Team on all aspects of festival and event production, assisting with preparation of our venues and events. The intern will leave the internship with a comprehensive overview of various elements of film festival event operations. This is an ideal opportunity for someone who would like to gain experience in event production, and who enjoys splitting time between in-office projects and on-site event execution. For the right candidate, internship projects could be structured for greater concentration in one of the below responsibility areas. This position reports to the Director of Operations.

Interns should be available for approximately 8 hours/week (1-2 days in-office) leading up to the San Francisco International Film Festival, and will be expected to have at least 5 days of open availability where one could work a 6-8 hour shift during the SFFILM Festival dates (April 24—May 4). There are some potential evening and weekend events leading up to the Festival, and significant evening and weekend hours during the Festival.

Application review begins January 12, 2026.

Opportunities and Outcomes:

Operations interns have the opportunity to learn about and develop real-world experience in all aspects of Operations team work. Interns will have the opportunity for growth and mentorship in the below areas, and will leave the internship with work samples and on-the-ground event experience and training.

Examples of projects include:

  • Production – learn valuable Production Assistant skills such as organizing inventory and setting up a basic press line, working closely with the rest of the production team
  • Volunteer Management – develop materials and outreach strategies to recruit and deploy new volunteers, including contributing to volunteer schedules, training materials and onsite management at events
  • Theater Operations – learn about and support all aspects of exhibition event production, including pre-event logistic prep and onsite execution during festival; learn from venue managers during the festival and support the front of house operations onsite
  • Hospitality Lounge and Special Events – with support and guidance from your supervisor, research food and beverage partners and donations and work to carry partners through from initial outreach to fulfillment; support venue design and set up, and support onsite execution
  • Customer Service and Administration – with the support of your supervisor, create resources for customer service management, including support of badge printing, and customer response both in person and online

Qualifications:

  • Flexible, energetic, detail-oriented team player
  • Good organizational skills
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, and interest in the manual/physical labor inherent in setting up and breaking down venues and events
  • Ability to multitask, exhibit consistent follow-through and work under time constraints.
  • Comfortable interacting with many different types of people (customers, patrons, filmmakers, sponsors, and event staff)
  • Knowledge of and experience with Google Suite and Microsoft Office
  • Some familiarity with basic AV set-ups is a plus
  • Driver’s license and clean driving record is a plus
  • Minimum commitment of 8 hours per week (generally two days a week)
  • Expected commitment of approximately 30 hours during the 10-day festival
  • Some evening/weekend availability required

Benefits:

  • SFFILM is an internationally recognized nonprofit 501(c)3 organization
  • Holistic introduction to the many facets of event production, and on-the-ground experience applicable to the film festival or general event industry
  • Excellent opportunity to learn about the inner workings of a world class film organization and create personal connections
  • Complimentary 1-year SFFILM membership
  • Interns are able, and encouraged, to attend SFFILM preview screenings and events
  • Class credit (if applicable).
  • Resume and network builder
  • Unpaid, but great film perks!

SFFILM is deeply committed to Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion (DEAI) in both its internal management and external programming. Since 2018, the organization has actively been working in collaboration with two Advisory Boards focused on accessibility and inclusivity and officially began work with a DEI consultant in 2019 to further invest in and build on that work. Candidates are invited to discuss their interest and involvement in DEAI practices in their cover letter, and ask us more about our DEAI process in their interview.

SFFILM, in accordance with federal and state law, is an equal-opportunity employer. SFFILM does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy/childbirth, medical condition, disability, age, ancestry, marital status, citizenship or veteran status. This nondiscrimination policy covers all candidates, staff members, interns, and volunteers.

Partnerships Intern

Summary

Want the opportunity to make a meaningful impact and connections at a legacy film arts nonprofit? SFFILM’s Development Department seeks a high energy, organized, and data-oriented person to join us this spring to assist with research, analysis, and communication targeted at expanding our portfolio of community and corporate partners leading up to the 2026 SFFILM Festival (April 24—May 4). Your work will support the solicitation of prospective partners and marketing opportunities with SFFILM. This is an excellent opportunity to learn about community and corporate outreach while making an important contribution and helping to influence the strategy of the organization. The internship is based in person in the Bay Area and is unpaid.

This internship requires a commitment of 2 in-person days per week (Tuesday and Thursday), approximately 10-16 hours per week. Intern should be available to work additional hours during the 2026 Festival (April 24—May 4). The ideal start date is in February 2026, with an end date in May 2026.

Application review begins January 8 but will be rolling after that.

Opportunities and Outcomes:

  • With the guidance of your supervisor and the support of the
  • Development Department, develop and execute a project that results in an example work product and directly supports SFFILM’s outreach goals.
  • Expand research and communication skills by supporting preliminary outreach to new and existing in-kind partners.
  • Develop skills in managing communication, tracking, and asset collection by supporting SFFILM’s existing database of in-kind partner organizations to support hospitality needs at SFFILM Festival events.
  • Participate in the administrative process of tracking partner deliverables and implementation.
  • Experience and assist onsite with sponsor activations and festival operations during SFFILM Festival events.

Qualifications:

  • Ideal candidates will be skilled listeners and eager problem solvers, with enthusiasm for creatively building relationships with new people and businesses, in order to support and strengthen SFFILM Festival objectives.
  • Self-starter with an interest in mission driven work, and a desire to influence an organization making a community impact.
  • Detail-oriented, comfortable using technology and curious about understanding and improving the way things work.
  • Team oriented with a professional demeanor.
  • Confident in making new connections and representing SFFILM in festival preparations as well as in person throughout the run of the festival.
  • Must be able to express yourself clearly, thoroughly and mindfully.
  • Ability to multitask and exhibit consistent follow-through; can work under time constraints.
  • Familiarity with Bay Area community organizations, businesses and geography a plus.
  • Proficiency with Google Suite. Additional CRM and analytics tools a plus.

Benefits:

  • SFFILM is an internationally recognized nonprofit 501(c)3 organization.
  • Great introduction and experience in development research, cultivation and relationship management in addition to exposure to aspects of program management and marketing.
  • Excellent opportunity to learn about the inner workings of a world class film organization and create personal connections.
  • Complimentary 1-year SFFILM membership.
  • Interns are able, and encouraged, to attend SFFILM preview screenings and events.
  • Class credit (if applicable).
  • Resume and network builder.
  • Unpaid, but great film perks!

SFFILM is deeply committed to Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion (DEAI) in both its internal management and external programming. Since 2018, the organization has actively been working in collaboration with two Advisory Boards focused on accessibility and inclusivity and officially began work with a DEI consultant in 2019 to further invest in and build on that work. Candidates are invited to discuss their interest and involvement in DEAI practices in their cover letter, and ask us more about our DEAI process in their interview.

SFFILM, in accordance with federal and state law, is an equal-opportunity employer. SFFILM does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy/childbirth, medical condition, disability, age, ancestry, marital status, citizenship or veteran status. This nondiscrimination policy covers all candidates, staff members, interns, and volunteers.

Education Intern

Summary

SFFILM’s Education department is seeking a motivated intern with an interest in education and film/media to support K -12 programming to join us this spring to develop skills and assist with outreach and event production. Our Education team serves more than 15,000 students and teachers every year, from kindergarten through college, to develop media literacy, cultural awareness, global understanding and a lifelong appreciation of cinema. SFFILM Education aims to cultivate students’ imaginations, prepare them for filmmaking careers, and empower them to succeed in a media-saturated world.

The Education Intern reports to the Education Manager and will provide assistance in the SFFILM offices and onsite at schools and theaters for our Schools at the Festivals program and provide additional support to the Education Department as needed. The key undertaking will be preparing for and executing the 2026 SFFILM Festival (April 23- May 4). This is an excellent opportunity to learn about film/media education. The internship is based in person in the Bay Area and is unpaid.

The opportunity is based in the Bay Area, requires 12-20 hours per week (availability to work out of the SFFILM SOMA offices on Tuesdays and/or Thursdays is essential), and runs from February through mid May 2026. This position may occasionally involve attendance at events outside of normal business hours or weekends.

Application Review will begin January 8th, 2026.

Opportunities and Outcomes:

  • Provide event support for Education and Schools at the Festival screenings and school visits (may include venue set-up, ushering, greeting students and teachers, assisting with Q&As, and volunteer coordination).
  • Develop outreach skills and gain knowledge of SFUSD, other Bay Area schools, and national afterschool programs serving K-12.
  • Support with the expansion of offered resources through activities and study guides for K-12 students who attend in-person or virtual screenings or events through Common Core Standards.
  • Assist in documenting Education events through video and photo.
  • Provide other administrative and constituent support as needed.
  • Provide additional program support to the Education Department as needed.

Qualifications:

  • Passion for film/ media education, film festivals, and film organizations.
  • Interest in working with students ages K-12.
  • Good research skills.
  • Reliable transportation and ability to travel to the SFFILM office, Bay Area schools, and theaters.
  • Availability for morning/afternoon weekday screenings, as well as scheduled weekday hours in the SFFILM office.
  • Excellent communication skills, both orally and in writing.
  • Professional demeanor combined with an ability to have fun with kids.
  • Must be able to express yourself clearly, thoroughly and mindfully.
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills.
  • Ability to juggle multiple tasks in a fast-paced working environment.
  • Excellent computer skills. Proficiency with Google Suite.
  • Must be able to pass a LiveScan.
  • Experience teaching in classrooms or non-traditional learning environments a plus.
  • Knowledge of SFUSD and the broader Bay Area education community a plus.

Benefits:

  • SFFILM is an internationally recognized nonprofit 501(c)3 organization.
  • Great introduction and experience in film/media education and film festival in addition to exposure to aspects of outreach and event management.
  • Excellent opportunity to learn about the inner workings of a world-class film organization and create personal connections.
  • Complimentary 1-year SFFILM membership.
  • Interns are able, and encouraged, to attend SFFILM preview screenings and events.
  • Class credit (if applicable).
  • Resume and network builder.
  • Unpaid, but great film perks!

SFFILM is deeply committed to Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion (DEAI) in both its internal management and external programming. Since 2018, the organization has actively been working in collaboration with two Advisory Boards focused on accessibility and inclusivity and officially began work with a DEI consultant in 2019 to further invest in and build on that work. Candidates are invited to discuss their interest and involvement in DEAI practices in their cover letter, and ask us more about our DEAI process in their interview.

SFFILM, in accordance with federal and state law, is an equal-opportunity employer. SFFILM does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy/childbirth, medical condition, disability, age, ancestry, marital status, citizenship or veteran status. This nondiscrimination policy covers all candidates, staff members, interns, and volunteers.

Individual Giving Intern

Summary

SFFILM’s Development Department is seeking a motivated intern with a passion for nonprofit capacity-building and film/media. This internship offers the chance to play a vital role in strengthening our fundraising systems, leading to greater long-term sustainability for the organization.

As a Development Intern, you’ll report directly to the Director of Development, assisting in the creation of essential documents like operating plans, individual prospect strategies, and research materials that will expand the department’s capacity in 2026 and beyond. You’ll have the opportunity to contribute to reports and analyses of current operations, support the creation of templates for fundraising efforts, and prepare for the 2026 SFFILM Festival (April 24- May 4). You’ll also assist the Corporate Partnerships team in securing In-Kind partners for the Festival.

This internship provides valuable exposure to nonprofit management, operational planning, and the film/media industry. The opportunity is based in San Francisco, requires 10-12 hours per week (availability to work out of the SFFILM SOMA offices Tuesdays and/or Thursdays is essential), an runs from February 2026 to May 2026. This position may occasionally involve attendance at events outside of normal business hours.

Application Review will begin January 8th, 2026

Opportunities and Outcomes:

  • Development Operations and Planning: Gain hands-on experience in all aspects of annual and long term fundraising, including preparing campaign reports, updating prospect research, and supporting donor engagement strategies throughout the spring season.
  • Cultivation and Stewardship: Assist with donor communications and stewardship materials tied to SFFILM’s spring programming and festival. Helping to create thoughtful, donor-centric documents that highlight the impact of their support.
  • Cross-Departmental Collaboration: Opportunity to work with programming, communications, and events staff to understand how development strategies align with broader organizational goals, gaining insight into how fundraising supports SFFILM’s mission.

Qualifications:

  • Energetic, detail-oriented team player with strong organizational and writing skills.
  • Ability to multitask, follow through on tasks, and work under deadlines.
  • Comfort interacting with a diverse range of people, including patrons, filmmakers, sponsors,
  • and event staff.
  • Familiarity with Google Suite and Microsoft Office.
  • Interest in nonprofit management and development, or related fields.
  • Commitment of 10-12 hours per week (generally two days a week).

Benefits:

  • Gain a comprehensive understanding of event production and nonprofit management.
  • Build a resume and network within the film industry.
  • Enjoy a complimentary 1-year SFFILM membership, with access to screenings and events.
  • Receive class credit (if applicable) and valuable work samples.
  • Unpaid, but with excellent film perks!

Join SFFILM this fall and make a meaningful impact while gaining invaluable experience in the world
of film and nonprofit development.

SFFILM is deeply committed to Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion (DEAI) in both its internal management and external programming. Since 2018, the organization has actively been working in collaboration with two Advisory Boards focused on accessibility and inclusivity and officially began work with a DEI consultant in 2019 to further invest in and build on that work. Candidates are invited to discuss their interest and involvement in DEAI practices in their cover letter, and ask us more about our DEAI process in their interview.

SFFILM, in accordance with federal and state law, is an equal-opportunity employer. SFFILM does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy/childbirth, medical condition, disability, age, ancestry, marital status, citizenship or veteran status. This nondiscrimination policy covers all candidates, staff members, interns, and volunteers.

Filmmaker Liaison

Overview

The Filmmaker Liaison supports execution of all events and activity as relates to festival guests. The Filmmaker Liaison is a full time, seasonal position that reports to the Programming Guest Manager and works closely with seasonal and year-round SFFILM roles and departments, and externally with SFFILM Festival guests.

This position supports all activities of the Guest Office Department, including communications with all visiting guests at the San Francisco International Film Festival (filmmakers, speakers, industry, and jury).This is an excellent opportunity for someone with experience in film festivals, guest management or customer service to support a programming and guest services team and learn more about film festivals and nonprofit arts events.

As an instrumental member of the Festival team, this role will be expected to work from our SOMA office several days per week depending on department needs. Some night and weekend availability is required, especially leading up to and during the SFFILM Festival (April 24 – May 4). The ideal start date for this position is March 9, 2026. This position is paid hourly at the rate of $25 per hour and is eligible for overtime. The end date for this role is May 8, 2026.

PRINCIPIAL DUTIES:

  • Coordinate communication and accommodation for all festival guests, including liaising with multiple hotels, assigning accommodations to guests, maintaining the master hotel grid, purchasing flights, and overseeing airfare reimbursements.
  • Act as a liaison between the Guest Office, Programming, Operations, Development, and other staff.
  • Support the Programming Guest Manager with overall project management, including scheduling, task distribution, and general communication.
  • Coordinate the creation and dissemination of welcome packs and itineraries for all festival guests.
  • Coordinate Industry Days communications and activities as instructed by the
  • Programming Guest Manager. Industry Days is a two-day in-person event that provides networking and panel discussions for over 100 filmmakers.
  • Coordinate the creation and dissemination of the Industry Delegate Guide.
  • Select and hire all interpreters needed for the festival’s international guests.
  • Collaborate with volunteers for pre-festival activities and during festival screenings.
  • Collaborate with festival benefit management for all guests, assisting with ticket requests and group sales.
  • Work with the Development team on hospitality partnerships and guest-related in-kind donations
  • Assist with rideshare coordination for guests.
  • Work with the Special Events Manager and Development to manage guest invitations to receptions, dinners, and other hospitality events.
  • Support the Programming Guest Manager to ensure that a representative from
  • Programming or the Guest Office is present for screenings with guests in attendance, to liaise between guests, programmers, theater operations, and other staff.
  • Staff the guest services desk in the Hospitality Suite during the festival to welcome guests and facilitate all guest needs.
  • Support Guest Office staff with seat management during screenings.
  • Assist with expense reconciliation post-festival and coordinate the Guest Office wrap report and thank-you notes/gifts.

EXPERIENCE/SKILLS REQUIRED:

  • Strong organizational and communication skills; friendly and welcoming demeanor.
  • Ability to juggle multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
  • Creative problem-solving skills.
  • Comfort and confidence in interacting with people from diverse backgrounds and roles both by email and in person.
  • Teamwork and a positive attitude.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and experience with database usage (FilemakerPro preferred).
  • Previous Guest/Artist Relations or Film Industry experience; Film Festival experience required.
  • Knowledge of Basecamp and foreign languages is a plus.
  • Management skills are a plus.

SUPERVISION:

Reports to the Programming Guest Manager

SFFILM is deeply committed to Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion (DEAI) in both its internal management and external programming. Since 2018, the organization has actively been working in collaboration with two Advisory Boards focused on accessibility and inclusivity and officially began work with a DEI consultant in 2019 to further invest in and build on that work. Candidates are invited to discuss their interest and involvement in DEAI practices in their cover letter, and ask us more about our DEAI process in their interview.

SFFILM, in accordance with federal and state law, is an equal-opportunity employer. SFFILM does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy/childbirth, medical condition, disability, age, ancestry, marital status, citizenship or veteran status. This nondiscrimination policy covers all candidates, staff members, interns, and volunteers.