Memberships

Programming Intern

Summary

SFFILM’s Programming Department is seeking a motivated intern with an interest in film curation, festival operations, guest experience, and film/media to support our Fall programs and preparations for the 2027 San Francisco International Film Festival. This internship offers a unique opportunity to learn about the programming, guest, and exhibition work that supports a year-round nonprofit film organization.

Founded in 1957, the San Francisco International Film Festival (SFIFF) is the longest-running film festival in the Americas. The Festival is deeply rooted in the culture and process of film appreciation—film as an art form and as a meaningful agent for social change—and is an important showcase for the most searching and innovative films from around the globe.

The Programming Intern reports to the Programming Guest Manager and will provide assistance in the SFFILM offices and onsite at exhibition programs as needed. The Intern will have the opportunity to support SFFILM’s Fall exhibition, including Doc Stories (November 5-8) and Awards Night (December 7). The key undertaking will be screening and evaluating films for the 2027 SFFILM Festival, which takes place in the Spring (April 22-May 2, 2027). The internship is unpaid.

The opportunity is based in the Bay Area, requires 8-16 hours per week (1-2 days in-office – availability to work out of the SFFILM Presidio offices Tuesdays and/or Thursdays is essential), and runs from September through December 17, 2026.

Application Review will begin August 26 and will be rolling after that.

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Opportunities and Outcomes

  • Support the planning and execution of SFFILM’s Fall exhibition programs 2026, through onsite event support and guest hospitality.
  • Assist with filmmaker and guest experience initiatives by researching filmmakers, preparing guest materials, tracking information, organizing internal documentation and supporting hospitality and event logistics.
  • Research upcoming films in post-production phase.
  • Screen (review) shorts and features that come through our Call for Entries for the 2027 SFFILM Festival.

Qualifications

  • Passion for film/ media education, film festivals, and film organizations.
  • Interest in the art and craft of cinema.
  • Good research skills.
  • Reliable transportation and ability to travel to the SFFILM office and exhibition venues.
  • Availability for scheduled weekday hours in the SFFILM office and some evenings for events.
  • Excellent communication skills, both orally and in writing.
  • 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. Experience with databases, spreadsheets, or project management software is a plus. Proficiency with Filemaker Pro would be 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.

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.rs.

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