Filmmaking Mentor - Seasonal Summer Instructor at Latino Film Institute – Sacramento, California

Youth Cinema Project Filmmaker Mentor – Summer (Seasonal)Job DescriptionThe 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 RequirementsMinimum of 3 years of experience in the film industry (producer, director, or below-the-line roles)

Expertise in at least one area of filmmaking

Candidates MUST have editing experience - comfortable in editing simple short content.

Proficiency in Google Workspace

Comfortable working in a school environment teaching children.

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

Location & Travel:

Position based in Stockton, CA

Must have a valid driver’s license, auto insurance, and reliable transportation

Travel up to 50 miles may be required (mileage reimbursed)

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 & ResponsibilitiesTeach 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 BootcampMandatory training prior to hire

Pass/Fail evaluation

Assessment Criteria:

Understanding of teaching structure and curriculum delivery

Professionalism, communication, and classroom presence

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 RequirementsAbility to lift/carry up to 40 lbs of equipment

Ability to stand for extended periods

Frequent bending, kneeling, pushing, and pulling

Ability to project voice clearly in a classroom setting

To Apply, Submit:Resume

Cover Letter

3 samples of film work

Additional RequirementsCandidates must complete:

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 OpportunityThe 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 DetailsJob Type: Part-Time, Contract

Pay: $31.80/hour

Schedule:

Day shift

Monday–Friday

No weekends

Work Location: In-person (Stockton)