At a Glance
- Tasks: Watch and evaluate short film submissions, manage programming selections, and contribute ideas for growth.
- Company: DIRECTORS' LIBRARY, an innovative platform for the film and creative industries.
- Benefits: Flexible freelance role with a competitive fee and remote working options.
- Why this job: Shape the future of short films while collaborating with passionate creatives.
- Qualifications: Familiarity with contemporary shorts and experience in film selection.
- Other info: Inclusive recruitment process with flexible working arrangements.
DIRECTORS’ LIBRARY is an independent online platform and resource for the film, video, and creative industries. They are looking for an Assistant Programmer (Shorts: Narrative Fiction & Documentary) to help manage and develop its short film programme. Working closely with the Senior Programmer, you will play a key role in shaping how shorts are programmed and distributed by the platform.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Watching and evaluating documentary and narrative short film submissions
- Managing submission flow, ensuring a clear, organised, and considered review process
- Programming selections that sit in dialogue with the platform’s wider curatorial strands
- Contributing ideas to the growth of the programme, including input into new programming or distribution strategies.
THIS ROLE MAY SUIT YOU IF YOU:
- Are familiar with DIRECTORS’ LIBRARY’s output and curatorial approach
- Have prior experience pre-selecting short films within a film festival, exhibition platform, or similar context
- Have a strong knowledge of contemporary documentary and narrative shorts and can articulate your perspective clearly
- Care deeply about directing, craft, and authorship
- Enjoy collaborative work and helping to shape something that is evolving.
FEE & COMMITMENT
This is a flexible freelance, fee-based role, paid at £175 per month. The expected commitment is approximately nine hours per month, based on adequately covering:
- Film viewing time
- Occasional repeated viewings
- Reviewing and assessing submissions
- Communication and coordination with the Senior Programmer.
This monthly fee represents the minimum payment for the role and equates to an hourly rate of approximately £19.45. If submission volume or overall viewing time increases materially, the fee will be reviewed and increased accordingly to ensure the role remains fairly compensated. The role is remote, with flexibility around working hours.
ACCESS & FLEXIBILITY
We are committed to creating a fair and inclusive recruitment process and are happy to discuss access adjustments or flexible working arrangements. Please contact us at desk@directorslibrary.com if there is anything we can do to make the application or role more accessible.
TO APPLY
Please send a short introduction outlining your interest in the role and a CV and/or LinkedIn profile to desk@directorslibrary.com. The closing date for this position is 27/02/2026 at 23:59.
Assistant Programmer (Shorts: Narrative Fiction & Documentary) employer: Box
Contact Detail:
Box Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Programmer (Shorts: Narrative Fiction & Documentary)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know DIRECTORS’ LIBRARY inside out! Watch their shorts and understand their curatorial style. This way, when you chat with them, you can show off your knowledge and passion for what they do.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend film festivals, and engage with fellow film enthusiasts. You never know who might have a lead or insight that could help you land that Assistant Programmer role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by thinking about how you’d approach programming selections. Have some ideas ready on how you’d contribute to the growth of the programme. Show them you’re not just a fan but someone who can actively shape their content!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at DIRECTORS’ LIBRARY.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Programmer (Shorts: Narrative Fiction & Documentary)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff: Before you start writing, make sure you’re familiar with DIRECTORS’ LIBRARY’s output and curatorial approach. This will help you tailor your application to show that you get what we’re all about!
Craft a Compelling Introduction: Your introduction is your chance to shine! Keep it short but engaging, and clearly express why you’re interested in the Assistant Programmer role. Let us see your passion for narrative fiction and documentary shorts.
Show Off Your Experience: Don’t hold back on sharing your relevant experience! Whether it’s pre-selecting films at festivals or your knowledge of contemporary shorts, make sure to highlight how your background aligns with the role.
Keep It Organised: When sending your CV and introduction, ensure everything is neatly formatted and easy to read. A clear and organised application reflects your attention to detail, which is key for this role. Remember to apply through our website!
How to prepare for a job interview at Box
✨Know Your Shorts
Before the interview, dive deep into DIRECTORS’ LIBRARY’s output. Familiarise yourself with their curatorial approach and recent programming. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you articulate how your vision aligns with theirs.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experience with short films, especially if you've worked in a film festival or similar context. Prepare specific examples of films you've pre-selected and how they contributed to the overall programme.
✨Articulate Your Perspective
Since the role requires a strong knowledge of contemporary documentary and narrative shorts, practice articulating your thoughts on recent films. Think about what makes a short film impactful and be prepared to share your insights during the interview.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Highlight your enjoyment of collaborative work. Discuss how you’ve successfully worked with others in the past to shape projects. This will resonate well, as the role involves close collaboration with the Senior Programmer.