Development Assistant
Apply Now Apply Later Job ID 10143841 Location Burbank, California, United States Business Searchlight Pictures Date posted Mar. 04, 2026Job Summary:
Job Summary:
This role directly supports the SVP, Production and VP, Production of Searchlight Pictures.
The Development Assistant plays a pivotal role in supporting the creative and administrative functions of the development team. This position is ideal for someone passionate about film and storytelling, with strong organizational skills and a proactive mindset. It serves as an entry point into the creative development career path, involving coordination with internal and external stakeholders, and contributing to the creative development process across a dynamic slate of film projects.
Responsibilities:
Creative & Development Support
Track submissions (scripts, books, writing samples); compile notes and feedback and disseminate this information with the appropriate internal departments.
Develop and maintain a thorough familiarity with all projects occurring within the company
Conduct research on talent, industry trends, and creative material to support development decisions.
Monitor emerging writing and directing talent and maintain up-to-date records of projects.
Assist in the creation of presentations and materials for internal use.
Liaise closely with the Co-Head’s assistants, as well as with executives, talent, and other assistants, both internally and externally.
Administrative Support
Manage executive calendars, schedule meetings and calls, and coordinate domestic/international travel and logistics.
Manage phones, update phone sheet, roll calls, take notes, and manage mail and office correspondence.
Prepare and submit expense reports; ensure timely payment of corporate card statements.
Greet guests and liaise professionally with talent, executives, and assistants.
Maintain organizational documents, logs, grids and databases, and prepare agendas and memos for high-level leadership meetings
Basic Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
1+ years of experience in a studio, production company, literary or talent agency.
Strong editorial judgment and passion for storytelling.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Highly organized with strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple projects.
Proficient in Microsoft Office, Apple tools (Outlook, Keynote, PowerPoint), and Adobe Acrobat.
Enthusiasm for film, particularly specialty/arthouse films
Fast and efficient reader with the ability to synthesize creative material.
Professional, calm, and empathetic demeanor; discretion in handling confidential information.
Proactive, resourceful, and flexible approach to problem-solving.
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work independently and collaboratively.
The hiring range for this position in Burbank, CA is $65,600.00 to $84,800.00 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.
About Searchlight Pictures:
Searchlight Pictures is a specialty film company that both finances and acquires motion pictures. It has its own marketing and distribution operations, and the films are distributed internationally by Twentieth Century Studios.
About The Walt Disney Company:
The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise that includes three core business segments: Disney Entertainment, ESPN, and Disney Experiences. From humble beginnings as a cartoon studio in the 1920s to its preeminent name in the entertainment industry today, Disney proudly continues its legacy of creating world-class stories and experiences for every member of the family. Disney’s stories, characters and experiences reach consumers and guests from every corner of the globe. With operations in more than 40 countries, our employees and cast members work together to create entertainment experiences that are both universally and locally cherished.
This position is with Searchlight Pictures, Inc., which is part of a business we call Searchlight Pictures.
Searchlight Pictures, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, military or veteran status, medical condition, genetic information or disability, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state or local law. Disney champions a business environment where ideas and decisions from all people help us grow, innovate, create the best stories and be relevant in a constantly evolving world.