Visual effects (VFX)
Runner
Also known as: Assistant coordinator, Despatch assistant, Office assistant, Production assistant, Visual effects (VFX) assistant, VFX production assistant, VFX assistant coordinator
What does a runner do?
Runners are all-purpose helpers in a VFX studio. They support any and all members in the studio and make sure that everyone has what they need. Runners do a variety of jobs. They deliver materials and messages between departments. They organise meetings and schedules. They keep the office clean and tidy and might work on reception or be responsible for locking up. They also make a lot of tea and coffee. They do whatever professional task needs doing.
A runner is an entry level position. In some studios, being a runner is a route into VFX artist roles and comes with opportunities to learn about those positions. In other studios, runners are seen as the entry point into production management. Some companies might assign runners a mentor and give them training tasks. The runner role can be a good route into the industry for someone without relevant degree education but with a good portfolio and lots of enthusiasm.
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What's a VFX runner good at?
- Interest in VFX: take an interest in the work of the company, be keen to learn technical skills where you can and grow your knowledge about VFX
- Being proactive: use your initiative to find jobs to do and show resourcefulness, make a good effort in all of the tasks that you do
- Enthusiasm: be confident, approachable and communicate well with all team members and clients
- Reliability: be on time and be able to multitask efficiently
- Adaptability: be able to prioritise jobs and cope well under pressure, adapting to changing project schedules and sometimes working late or irregular hours
Who does a VFX runner work with?
Runners carry out tasks for staff from all the different departments in a studio. They might also interact with studio clients.
How do I become a VFX runner?
A runner is an entry level job and a great way of getting into the industry. Some runners will have a degree in VFX or a related discipline but this isn’t strictly necessary. Being a runner is a good way in for someone without formal education but with a strong portfolio. The most important thing is to demonstrate a passion for VFX and a desire to progress in the industry. You need enthusiasm and a proactive approach.
At school or college:
You can take A-levels or Highers in business studies, film studies, media studies, English, maths and economics. Or you might want to take a level 3 qualification in media or business. Look at what your local college offers such as:
- OCR Technical Diploma in Digital Media (Moving Image and Audio Production)
- UAL Diploma/Extended Diploma in Creative Media Production and Technology
- OCR Cambridge Technical Diploma/Extended Diploma in Performing Arts
- BTEC National Diploma/Extended Diploma in Performing Arts
- T level Media, Broadcast and Production
- OCR Technical Diploma / Extended Diploma in Business
- T level Management and Administration
Get a degree:
You could either take a degree that equips you with the technical skills of a VFX artist or a degree in film production. Have a look at ScreenSkills’ list of recommended courses in film or VFX. We recognise courses with our ScreenSkills Select award where they offer training in the relevant software, dedicated time to building a portfolio and have strong links with the VFX industry.
Become a trainee:
Get onto ScreenSkills’ Trainee Finder scheme. Get the skills, make contacts and start working as a production trainee.
Build a portfolio:
Learn how to use, and then experiment with, VFX programs and create a showreel that you can show to admissions tutors or employers. This is essential. Go to Build your VFX portfolio to learn how. It’s really important to develop your appreciation for VFX. Make sure you’re familiar with what’s out there.
Look outside the industry:
See if you can get a job as a runner with a 3D animation studio or company. This will help you build contacts, skills and knowledge related to VFX. While you are trying to break into VFX production, get management or project management experience. Any job that involves planning, organising and budgeting will give you good experience.
Search for jobs:
Find the VFX companies that you’re interested in. Look on their websites to see if they’re advertising for runner roles. Some might advertise for assistants, receptionists, administrators or personal assistants. Even if there aren’t any jobs advertised, contact the company and ask if you could do a work placement with them or if you could come and meet them. ArtStation is a good example of a site that includes job listings in animation, games and VFX (remember to filter its job listings by country).
Meet people in the industry:
Go to ScreenSkills’ events, follow your local film office and any local community arts and media organisations and attend their events. Go to how to network well for some tips.
Network online:
Create a LinkedIn profile. See if there’s a Facebook page or other social media group for people making films or videos in your area. Join it and take part. Create a ScreenSkills profile.
Explore ScreenSkills Resources:
ScreenSkills careers information:
The your career hub has a wealth of resources designed to help you start or progress your career.
ScreenSkills e-learning:
ScreenSkills has a suite of free e-learning modules for those who are over 18 which can improve your knowledge. The ScreenSkills Passport modules also prepare you as they are essential for some production roles. Some modules are available for those under 18. For anyone wanting advice about first steps, the Getting into the screen industries modules are very useful.
ScreenSkills skills checklists:
If you would like more detail about the tasks, responsibilities and skills required for many key roles in film and TV drama, children’s TV and unscripted TV you can look at our skills checklists.
You might also be interested in...
An entry level VFX role in the art department such as a matchmove artist, roto artist or modelling artist. Or you might want to be a runner in animation, or a production runner or a floor runner in film and TV drama.
