Film Professor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of cinematic innovation, the role of film professors is more essential than ever.

As the film industry evolves, the demand for skilled and knowledgeable educators who can inspire, instruct, and guide the next generation of filmmakers amplifies.

But what’s really expected from a film professor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the nuances of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the world of film education,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable film professor job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or academic career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Film Professor Duties and Responsibilities

Film Professors are responsible for instructing students about various aspects of film including production, history, theory, and criticism.

They need to maintain a balance between academic teaching and practical training.

Their typical duties and responsibilities include:

• Developing and implementing curriculum plans that incorporate the fundamentals and advanced concepts of film studies
• Teaching courses in film studies, film history, cinematography, film theory, and film production
• Assessing students’ progress and performance, providing constructive feedback and guidance
• Maintaining up-to-date knowledge of new film techniques and technologies
• Guiding and mentoring students on their film projects
• Conducting research in film studies and sharing findings through lectures, seminars, and publications
• Facilitating discussions about films, encouraging analytical and critical thinking
• Organizing film screenings and study trips for educational purposes
• Providing academic advising to students, guiding them on course selection and career paths in the film industry
• Engaging in activities to promote the film studies program, such as workshops, film festivals, and guest lectures.

 

Film Professor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a knowledgeable and engaging Film Professor to join our academic team.

The candidate will be responsible for educating students on a wide range of film and television production topics, including film theory, screenwriting, cinematography, and editing.

The ideal candidate should have a strong academic background in film studies, hands-on experience in film production, and a passion for teaching.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver engaging lectures on film and television production
• Assess student’s understanding and progress through grading assignments and exams
• Conduct research and publish scholarly papers and books
• Advise students on academic and vocational curricula, and on career issues
• Participate in campus and community events
• Stay updated with the latest trends in film and television industry
• Contribute to the development of the department’s curriculum

 

Qualifications

• A PhD in Film Studies or a related field
• Extensive knowledge of film history, theory, and production
• Experience in film production (screenwriting, directing, cinematography, editing, etc.)
• Prior teaching experience at the university level is desirable
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to inspire and motivate students
• Excellent publication record in the field of film studies

 

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Pension plan
• Paid sabbatical leave
• Professional development opportunities
• Tuition reimbursement
• Paid time off

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Film Professor
• Work Environment: University campus setting. Office and classroom facilities provided.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of the Department.
• Salary: Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience.
• Location: [City, State] (Specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our university. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and teaching philosophy, and a list of three references to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Film Professor Do?

A Film Professor typically works in universities and colleges teaching film studies to students.

They may also work independently as consultants or researchers.

They teach various aspects of film such as filmmaking techniques, film theory, film history, and screenwriting.

They may also delve into more specialized topics such as documentary filmmaking, avant-garde cinema, and the socio-cultural impact of films.

Film Professors plan and deliver lectures, create and grade assignments and exams, and guide students in their individual research projects or film production work.

They also stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in the film industry and incorporate them into their teachings.

Film Professors may also be involved in academic research and publishing, contributing to the body of knowledge in the field of film studies.

They often participate in and present their work at film festivals, academic conferences, or seminars.

Furthermore, they may also guide students who wish to pursue a career in the film industry, providing them with advice and connections.

In all cases, a Film Professor is responsible for fostering a deep understanding and appreciation of the art and craft of film in their students.

 

Film Professor Qualifications and Skills

A Film Professor should possess a comprehensive range of qualifications and skills that align with the job role, including:

• Extensive knowledge of the film industry, including the history, theories, and technical aspects of cinema.
• Excellent communication skills to convey complex film theories and principles effectively to students.
• Strong analytical skills to critique films, identify underlying themes and nuances, and encourage students to do the same.
• Effective teaching skills that cater to diverse learning styles, ensuring all students understand and grasp the course content.
• Research abilities to stay updated with the latest film industry trends, technologies, and developments and integrate them into the curriculum.
• Mentorship skills to guide and support students in their academic journey and career goals within the film industry.
• Ability to develop and revise course curriculum as per the latest educational standards and requirements.
• Interpersonal skills to foster a positive, respectful, and inclusive classroom environment.
• Experience with digital media production, film editing software, and other technical tools often used in filmmaking.

 

Film Professor Experience Requirements

To become a Film Professor, an individual typically needs to have an extensive background in film studies, usually in the form of a doctorate in film studies or a related field such as visual arts or media studies.

Often, universities and colleges require their faculty members to have several years of experience in teaching or academia.

Therefore, Film Professors would ideally have spent several years as teaching assistants or associate professors in the field of film studies, gaining practical experience of academic instruction and curriculum planning.

In addition to academic experience, many institutions prefer candidates who have professional experience in the film industry.

This could include roles such as a film director, screenwriter, film editor, cinematographer, or other relevant roles.

This industry experience enriches the professor’s teaching by providing real-world case studies and insights.

Moreover, those aspiring to become Film Professors need to have a strong research background.

This includes having published research papers or articles, or having presented at academic conferences.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in academia, coupled with industry experience, may be ready for a senior Film Professor role or a department head position.

 

Film Professor Education and Training Requirements

Film Professors typically have a minimum of a Master’s degree in film studies, cinema studies, or a related field.

However, many universities prefer candidates with a Doctorate degree.

These degrees provide a foundational understanding of film history, film theory, film production, and other aspects of cinema and media studies.

It is also essential for Film Professors to have several years of experience in teaching or film industry.

Many Film Professors have background as filmmakers, screenwriters, film critics, or other film-related professions.

In addition to formal education, Film Professors should have a deep understanding of various film genres, filmmaking techniques, and the impact of film on society and culture.

Knowledge of film editing software and other technical aspects of filmmaking is also beneficial.

While not always required, some Film Professors may also have a specialization in a particular area of film studies, such as animation, documentary filmmaking, or independent cinema.

Moreover, to teach at university level, Film Professors usually need to demonstrate a consistent record of scholarly research and publication in peer-reviewed journals.

Continued professional development through participation in academic conferences, film festivals, and other industry events is also highly encouraged.

Lastly, excellent communication and interpersonal skills are fundamental to effectively teach and inspire students in the field of film.

 

Film Professor Salary Expectations

A Film Professor earns an average salary of $76,307 (USD) per year.

This salary can vary significantly depending on the level of experience, academic qualifications, and the location of the institution.

 

Film Professor Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Film Professor need?

Film Professors typically need a minimum of a Master’s degree in Film Studies or a related field, although many institutions prefer applicants with a Doctorate.

They should have a solid understanding of film theory, history, and production.

Prior teaching experience is also generally preferred.

 

What are the daily duties of a Film Professor?

A Film Professor’s daily duties may involve preparing and delivering lectures, designing and grading assignments and exams, providing one-on-one guidance to students during office hours, and conducting research in their specialized area of film studies.

They may also be required to supervise student film projects and participate in faculty meetings and committees.

 

What qualities make a good Film Professor?

A good Film Professor should be able to communicate complex film theories and concepts in a way that engages students and enhances their understanding.

They should be passionate about film and have a deep knowledge of its history and techniques.

Additionally, they should be able to provide constructive feedback to students, fostering their creativity and critical thinking skills.

 

What should you look for in a Film Professor resume?

A Film Professor resume should highlight the candidate’s education, teaching experience, and any publications or film projects they have worked on.

It should also demonstrate the candidate’s area of specialization, such as documentary film, experimental cinema, or film history.

Participation in film festivals, conferences, or other professional activities should also be noted.

 

Is it difficult to hire Film Professors?

Hiring Film Professors can be challenging as it requires finding someone who not only has an in-depth understanding of film and its various components but also has the pedagogical skills necessary to effectively teach and inspire students.

It is also beneficial to find a candidate who can contribute to the department through their unique research or creative work.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the enticing world of being a film professor.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not merely about critiquing movies.

It’s about crafting the cinematic future, one film class at a time.

With our comprehensive film professor job description template and authentic examples, you’re fully equipped to advance.

But why halt your journey here?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your key to meticulously tailored listings or refining your curriculum vitae to the peak of perfection.

Bear in mind:

Every film class is a part of a larger narrative.

Let’s shape that narrative. Together.

How to Become a Film Professor (Complete Guide)

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