Filmmaking Mentor

Latino Film Institute•Plainfield, NJ

33d•Onsite

About The Position

The Youth Cinema Project (YCP) is a project-based learning program of the Latino Film Institute that provides in-school filmmaking instruction to students in public schools. The program focuses on the creation of short-form digital content, including narrative public service announcements (PSAs) and other student-driven media projects. YCP Filmmaking Mentors are professional filmmakers who teach 90-minute classes, twice per week, during the regular school day to students in grades 5–12. Each class is supported by two YCP Mentors working collaboratively, alongside a credentialed classroom teacher and/or instructional aide assigned by the school district. Mentors guide students through the full filmmaking process—from concept to final edit—using YCP-provided curriculum and lesson plans. Programs culminate with a student film screening opportunity at the Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival (LALIFF). Mentors can expect to work approximately 7–14 hours per week, including classroom instruction, required preparation time, and supplemental duties as assigned.

Requirements

Minimum 3 years of professional experience in the film industry, including roles such as producer, director, or below-the-line positions
Expertise in at least one area of filmmaking (e.g., directing, cinematography, editing, sound, producing)
Working knowledge of video editing sufficient to edit short-form content
Bachelor’s degree in Film or a closely related field
Comfort working in a K–12 public school environment
Strong communication, collaboration, and classroom management skills
Proficiency with Google Workspace (Docs, Drive, Sheets)
Ability to commute up to 50 miles (mileage reimbursed)
DOJ LiveScan fingerprinting and criminal background check
TB test
Completion of required state-mandated trainings (paid at training rate)
Valid auto insurance
Ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs of film equipment
Regular standing, bending, kneeling, and light outdoor work
Clear speaking voice capable of projecting in a classroom setting

Nice To Haves

Film school graduate
Previous teaching, mentoring, or youth development experience
Experience with: DaVinci Resolve Frame.io Dropbox
Advanced working knowledge of: Camera and audio equipment Film set logistics Story structure and visual storytelling
Basic working knowledge of grip and electric equipment

Responsibilities

Co-teach filmmaking classes twice weekly (90 minutes per session) in a public school classroom during regular school hours
Deliver instruction in: Screenwriting and story development Storyboarding and pre-production Casting and directing Production (camera, sound, lighting) Editing and post-production
Support students in producing short-form narrative and PSA-style content
Foster a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment in collaboration with: A co-mentor Credentialed classroom teachers School administrators and staff
Complete required preparation time prior to each class session using YCP-provided curriculum and lesson plans
Participate in supplemental paid hours outside of instructional time as assigned
Attend all required: Mentor orientations Trainings and professional development sessions Program meetings and check-ins
Ensure timely completion of all class deliverables, including: Scripts Edited films Required documentation and reports
Assist YCP staff with program assessment and data collection as requested by the District
Maintain clear and timely communication with YCP administration and school personnel
Build and maintain positive rapport with students, educators, administrators, and fellow mentors
Adhere to all YCP policies, Mentor Handbook guidelines, and district site rules
Support inventory, care, and basic oversight of classroom film equipment as required