Trainee Production Painter, Emmerdale – 12 Months FTC (ITV Academy) ITV Careers in Leeds

Workplace: Emmerdale, Leeds – expectation is 5 days on site.

Please Note: ITV is an accredited Living Wage employer and will pay no less than the Living wage for any role.

The team

You’ll be joining a highly collaborative and supportive team within our vibrant Craft Workshop, working alongside experienced craftspeople dedicated to bringing imaginative designs to life. Our team fosters an environment of learning and creativity, where knowledge sharing is encouraged, and every member plays a vital role in the success of our productions. You’ll also have the chance to liaise with the wider Art Department and production team, gaining a comprehensive understanding of how our collective efforts contribute to the magic of television.

The role

This hands‑on Trainee Production Painter role offers an unparalleled opportunity to delve into the creative heart of television production, working on the iconic sets of Emmerdale. Based within our bustling Craft Shop, you will shadow and learn directly from our skilled Production Painters, assisting in the creation and maintenance of the captivating scenery that brings Hotten to life. You will learn a vast array of both painting and decorating techniques from realistic faux finishes like wood graining, marbling, and brickwork, to understanding aging processes for Woolpack interiors and large‑scale studio painting for the village itself. You’ll gain invaluable insight into the entire set‑building workflow, appreciate the crucial contribution of scenic artistry, and learn to thrive under the exciting pressure of tight filming deadlines on one of the nation’s most beloved shows.

Skills you’ll need (minimum criteria)

• A minimum of NVQ Level 2 in Painting & Decorating (or equivalent practical experience), providing a solid foundation in core painting techniques such as surface preparation, application methods and safe use of materials.
• A demonstrable and genuine interest in developing a career in scenic painting for television, with a willingness to learn and apply specialist techniques such as scenic effects, texturing and faux finishes.
• Proven ability to apply existing painting skills in a practical workshop environment and adapt these to new creative contexts under supervision.
• An eye for detail and a creative approach to work, with the ability to interpret visual references and designs.
• Demonstrable ability to work flexibly in line with production requirements, including occasional long or unsocial hours and travel to locations where required.
• A full UK driving licence to travel to and between locations as required by the production, with equipment.
• Basic understanding of health and safety within a practical or workshop environment (training will be provided).
• Demonstrable ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and maintain professional standards at all times.
• Proven ability to carry out the physical requirements of the role, with reasonable adjustments considered. This involves being able to stand for extended periods, for example, for 2‑3 hours at a time while working on set pieces. You’ll also need to be able to lift and carry materials weighing up to 10kg occasionally from ground level to waist height, and push or pull equipment up to 15kg across a workshop floor.

Other things we’re looking for (key criteria)

• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team, communicate with a variety of people and follow instruction from experienced Scenic Artists and Production Painters.
• A proactive approach and willingness to support the wider workshop, including maintenance and housekeeping tasks.
• Enthusiastic about working in both the Craft workshop and within the Design department at Emmerdale.
• Able to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Proactive and adaptable approach to working in a fast‑paced production environment.
• Able to work on own initiative.
• Ensuring a professional approach to the work environment.
• Eagerness to learn and develop a wide range of scenic art techniques.

Please note: On occasion we may receive a very large volume of applications which means applications for a role may close earlier than the referenced closing date. We’d encourage you to apply as soon as possible if interested.