Job Opportunities with the Atlanta Film Festival
In addition to the staff, volunteers, and interns dedicated to Atlanta Film Society’s year-round programs, the Atlanta Film Society also relies on the individuals who love to serve the film community to make the Atlanta Film Festival take place each year. The Atlanta Film Festival will be here before you know it and we need YOU to make it happen.
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ORGANIZATION DESCRIPTION
HISTORY: Atlanta Film Society was founded in 1976 (as IMAGE Film and Video Center) by a grassroots group of filmmakers, cinephiles and educators. IMAGE was the first video arts center in the State of Georgia and in 1977 it launched the Atlanta Film and Video Festival. Four decades and several name changes later, Atlanta Film Society (ATLFS) continues its dedication to the promotion and education of film through year-round programming for industry professionals and general audiences. Programs include screenings, classes, workshops, ATLFS’s flagship program, the Atlanta Film Festival (ATLFF).
MISSION: To connect, educate, and engage audiences with the creative industry by supporting artists and providing a platform for their work. We champion cultural discovery, foster artistic growth, and advocate for diverse voices in film and media arts, both locally and worldwide.
VISION: To be Georgia’s epicenter of Independent Film and TV with a reputation as a global platform.
THE ATLANTA FILM FESTIVAL: Now in its 50th year, ATLFF is the Southeast’s preeminent celebration of cinema. One of the largest and longest-running film festivals in the country, ATLFF showcases the work of both emerging and established artists. Every spring, our 11-day festival presents approximately 150 films, representing work from the US and 40+ countries internationally. ATLFF has been named a “Top 50 Festival Worth the Entry Fee” and one of the “25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World” by MovieMaker magazine as well as USAToday’s “10 Best Film Festivals.” Historically, over 90% of ATLFF’s program is composed of films submitted directly to the festival.
ATLFF strives to be an inclusive showcase, with spotlights on filmmakers of color, LGBTQ+ films, women and gender nonconforming filmmakers, and filmmakers working in Georgia and the wider American South. Typically over 70% of ATLFF’s programmed films are directed by filmmakers identifying as BIPOC, female or non-binary. In addition, each year ATLFF seeks to highlight our thriving local filmmaking community, with around a quarter of the film program coming from filmmakers based in the state.
POSITION DESCRIPTION
Each year, the Programming Department tracks, watches, and scores the 5000+ films submitted for consideration for the Atlanta Film Festival. In addition to taking an active part in screening and evaluating submissions, the Programming Director supervises the staff and contracted programmers of the Programming team, ensuring proper stewardship of submitted work, effective communication and flow of information between parties both inside and outside ATLFS, and the development of a diverse and exciting film program in accordance with ATLFS’s mission and values. The Programming Director also leads filmmaker communication and the department’s onsite festival presence (including but not limited to introducing in-theater screenings and moderating talkback sessions with filmmakers).In addition, the Programming Director leads implementation of any and all year-round film programs for the Atlanta Film Society and collaborates with other ATLFS departments as needed.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Reports to the Managing Director.
Attends all ATLFS Staff, Department Meetings, and weekly Director meetings.
ATLANTA FILM FESTIVAL
Takes ultimate responsibility for the Atlanta Film Festival program, including Official Selections from films submitted to ATLFF, Marquee films from the festival circuit (including Opening and Closing Night films), and Special Presentations of films outside of competition.
Collects, collates, and distributes film data and screening schedule details to programmers, all other ATLFSdepartments according to their needs (e.g., to Operations for staff and volunteer shift scheduling, to Marketing for promotion of screening events, etc.), and parties outside the organization (e.g. participating filmmakers, audiences via ATLFS’s ticketing system, etc.)
Creates and maintains data tools and reports for intra- and inter-departmental use.
Supervises the work of 2 staff programmers and additional contracted programmers as they evaluate and deliberate on submissions to ATLFF in order to arrive at a final program of Official Selections.
Sets screening goals and deadlines for all programmers - schedules, attends, and runs meetings; prepares score summaries and tracking documents for submission and scores data, and shares in both preliminary and final rounds of screening films for the festival.
Delegates screening and coordination work to staff programmers as needed.
Oversees the coordination of ATLFF’s volunteer screening committee, tracking the work of volunteers on a daily basis during the submissions season and circulating submissions among screening committee members to ensure all submitted films are adequately covered and useful feedback supplied to programmers.
Collaborates with Marquee Programmer to identify and program Marquee films from distributor slates and other non-submission sources.
In consultation with other Directors, updates ATLFF call for entry for each ATLFF festival cycle, lead creation of calls for any new programs and assist with marketing calls to entry.
Coordinates directly with filmmakers and representatives of selected films to arrange their participation in the Atlanta Film Festival
Creates the schedule of film screenings for ATLFF, incorporating feedback from other department heads.
Oversee the recruiting of jury members and their deliberations.
Manages the seasonal Guest Services Coordinator to make hospitality arrangements for visiting filmmakers
Manages seasonal Print Traffic Coordinator to receive and prepare exhibition copies of all programmed films for in-theater and virtual presentation at ATLFF.
Works with the Creative Conference Director to incorporate attending filmmakers into conference panels.
Schedules introductions and Q&A moderation for all films by programmers or community members, and takes an active part in Q&A moderation and introduction.
OTHER PROGRAMMING
Advises and assists on programs led by other departments.
Serves on the interdepartmental committee for LOCALS ONLY curated screening series.
Plans and executes occasional film programming under the NOIRE, ¡CINEMÁS!, and other banners.
Pursues community and promotional partnerships related to year-round programming.
Other duties as assigned by the Managing Director.
QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum four years of experience in film festival programming, preferably with a film festival that receives a large volume (>4,000) of submissions.
Experience managing multi-month projects that involve multiple collaborators and structured deadlines.
Ability to objectively evaluate films of all genres and styles and lead productive group deliberations to curate a balanced festival program.
Strong commitment to independent film and to community-based film culture.
Commitment to the Atlanta Film Society’s mission, with a particular emphasis on inclusivity and spotlighting underrepresented and emerging artists.
Experience communicating among leadership groups to achieve goals across departments
Comfort with public speaking.
Strong writing and proofreading abilities.
SKILLS
Experience coordinating submissions with FilmFreeway (tracking and assigning submissions, maintaining user permissions and accounts).
Strong proficiency in Google Docs for data analysis (ie lookup and summary formulas, SQL queries, and Pivot Tables).
Familiarity with Airtable (ie data modeling and operations, form design). Experience with Airtable automations a plus.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
$45,000 - 50,000 Gross Salary
Minimum of 56 days of Paid Time Off from a combination of all major holidays, office closure days, and flexible PTO for each fiscal year
IRA Matching
Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) plan
Flexible hybrid remote work policy
TIMEFRAME & HOURS
This is a full-time position with a flexible hybrid work schedule, beginning June 15 - July 1, 2026. The contract is through June 30, 2027 (following the 51st Atlanta Film Festival), with the intent to renew for the 2027 fiscal year (after a positive post-festival evaluation and review process), and the intent to continue each year. Atlanta-based candidates are preferred
The Atlanta Film Society, in accordance with applicable federal and state law, is an equal-opportunity employer that seeks an inclusive and representative staff and particularly welcomes applications from women and diverse ethnicities. The Atlanta Film Society does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy/childbirth, medical condition, disability, age, ancestry, marital status, citizenship or veteran status. This nondiscrimination policy covers all staff members, interns, and volunteers.
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Reports to: Operations Director
Position Title: Technical Manager (Contractor)
Location: On-site during the 50th Annual Atlanta Film FestivalORGANIZATION DESCRIPTION - ATLFF
Now approaching its 50th year, the Atlanta Film Festival (ATLFF) is the Southeast’s preeminent celebration of cinema and the flagship production of the Atlanta Film Society. One of the largest and longest-running festivals in the country, ATLFF showcases the work of both emerging and established artists. Every spring, our 11-day festival presents approximately 150 local and international works representing 50+ countries selected from as many as 10,000+ submissions (consisting of 8,000+ films and 2,000+ screenplays) sent in from as many as 120+ countries. For multiple years, ATLFF has been named a “Top 50 Festival Worth the Entry Fee” and one of the “25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World” by MovieMaker magazine, as well as USAToday’s “10 Best Film Festivals.” Historically, over 90% of ATLFF’s program is chosen from submissions.
These priorities for on-screen extend also to off-screen with the Atlanta Film Society (ATLFS) striving to make sure that the breadth of Atlanta’s rich diversity in ethnicity, orientation, age, and gender is reflected in our audience, volunteers, jury, staff, and board.
POSITION DESCRIPTION
The Technical Manager will oversee all aspects of technical and production-related operations for the Atlanta Film Festival. This role is responsible for overseeing technical planning, on-site execution, and post-event breakdown to ensure all festival events operate smoothly, efficiently, and to professional production standards. The Technical Manager acts as the central point of contact for technical support, coordinating equipment, troubleshooting issues, and managing production logistics across all festival venues.
The Technical Manager must be a clear and confident communicator, a strong problem solver, and a friendly, approachable team member with a strong customer-service focus.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Reports to the Operations Director
Serve as the Technical Manager for the Atlanta Film Festival
Be on-site for all events, as well as festival load-in and load-out, to oversee event setup, execution, and breakdown.
Act as the main point of contact for all technical support needs, ensuring that production and technical requirements are met for each event.
Oversee the coordination of technical setups, equipment, and troubleshooting during the festival.
Track and manage inventory of event materials, including backdrops, projectors, computers, and other display equipment.
Perform other duties as assigned to support the success of the event
Address all logistical details related to production to ensure flawless operations.
Oversee event logistics, including the preparation of presentation materials and post-event evaluations.
Perform other duties as assigned to support the success of the event.
Write a comprehensive post-festival report covering your areas of responsibility
EXPECTATIONS
Commitment to the ATLFS Mission Statement
Attend all ATLFF Staff, Operations Department Meetings, and meetings with the Operations Director
SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS
Experience in technical or related fields.
Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and work both independently and collaboratively.
Problem-solving skills and flexibility to address challenges as they arise.
Prior experience with film festivals or large-scale events is a plus.
Familiarity with Google Docs, Airtable, and Slack preferred.
Strong passion for independent film and film festivals, with a commitment to inclusivity and spotlighting underrepresented artists.
Knowledge of or connection to the Atlanta film community is a plus.
Ability to manage and lead a team, with strong writing, proofreading, and attention to detail.
Ability to address an audience and/or experience in (or openness to) public speaking.
Professional and efficient under deadline pressures.
Must have a valid drivers license.
Must be over 21 years of age.
Must be able to lift 50lbs.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
Flat Fee of $5,000
Upon successful completion of contract candidates will receive a 2026 Atlanta Film Society Membership.
Compensation will not include travel to or during the event.
Compensation will not include housing during the event provided during the event.
TIMEFRAME & HOURS
This is a seasonal position that lasts between March - May, 2026. The Festival Manager is expected to work on some evenings and weekends and be on-site for all days of the 50th Atlanta Film Festival (April 23 - May 3, 2026).
This is a contract-based position. This position requires an Atlanta-based candidate.
The Atlanta Film Society, in accordance with applicable federal and state law, is an equal-opportunity employer that seeks an inclusive and representative staff and particularly welcomes applications from women and diverse ethnicities. The Atlanta Film Society does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy/childbirth, medical condition, disability, age, ancestry, marital status, citizenship or veteran status. This nondiscrimination policy covers all staff members, interns and volunteers.
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Reports to: Operations Director
Position Title: Event Manager (Contractor)
Location: On-site during the 50th Annual Atlanta Film FestivalORGANIZATION DESCRIPTION - ATLFF
Now approaching its 50th year, the Atlanta Film Festival (ATLFF) is the Southeast’s preeminent celebration of cinema and the flagship production of the Atlanta Film Society. One of the largest and longest-running festivals in the country, ATLFF showcases the work of both emerging and established artists. Every spring, our 11-day festival presents approximately 150 local and international works representing 50+ countries selected from as many as 10,000+ submissions (consisting of 8,000+ films and 2,000+ screenplays) sent in from as many as 120+ countries. For multiple years, ATLFF has been named a “Top 50 Festival Worth the Entry Fee” and one of the “25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World” by MovieMaker magazine as well as USAToday’s “10 Best Film Festivals.” Historically, over 90% of ATLFF’s program is chosen from submissions.
These priorities for on-screen extend also to off-screen with the Atlanta Film Society (ATLFS) striving to make sure that the breadth of Atlanta’s rich diversity in ethnicity, orientation, age, and gender is reflected in our audience, volunteers, jury, staff, and board.
POSITION DESCRIPTION
The Event Manager will oversee all aspects of event planning and execution, ensuring each event operates seamlessly from conception through completion. Core responsibilities include coordinating with catering vendors; managing venue layouts and décor; developing and executing detailed run-of-show schedules; planning and confirming event menus; coordinating talent, speakers, and special guests; and addressing all logistical and operational requirements. The primary objective of this role is to deliver a smooth, well-organized, and memorable experience for all attendees.In the lead-up to the festival and throughout its duration, this role serves as the primary point of contact for ATLFF events. The Event Manager must be a clear and confident communicator, a strong problem solver, and a friendly, approachable team member with a strong customer-service focus.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Reports to the Operations Director
Serve as the Events Manager for the Atlanta Film Festival
Liaise with catering vendors and manage venue layout, decor, and design for all festival events.
Develop and oversee the detailed run-of-show for each event, ensuring all elements are aligned for smooth execution.
Be on-site for all events, as well as festival load-in and load-out, to oversee event setup, execution, and breakdown.
Conduct venue visits to finalize event layout, seating, and decorations.
Address all logistical details related to the events to ensure flawless operations.
Oversee event logistics, including the preparation of presentation materials and post-event evaluations.
Perform other duties as assigned to support the success of the event.
Write a comprehensive post-festival report covering your areas of responsibility
EXPECTATIONS
Commitment to the ATLFS Mission Statement
Attend all ATLFF Staff, Operations Department Meetings, and meetings with the Operations Director;
SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONSExperience in festival event management or related fields.
Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and work both independently and collaboratively.
Problem-solving skills and flexibility to address challenges as they arise.
Prior experience with film festivals or large-scale events is a plus.
Familiarity with Google Docs, Airtable, and Slack preferred.
Strong passion for independent film and film festivals, with a commitment to inclusivity and spotlighting underrepresented artists.
Knowledge of or connection to the Atlanta film community is a plus.
Ability to manage and lead a team, with strong writing, proofreading, and attention to detail.
Ability to address an audience and/or experience in (or openness to) public speaking.
Professional and efficient under deadline pressures.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
Flat Fee of $5,000
Upon successful completion of contract candidates will receive a 2026 Atlanta Film Society Membership.
Compensation will not include travel to or during the event.
Compensation will not include housing during the event provided during the event.
TIMEFRAME & HOURS
This is a seasonal position that lasts between March - May, 2026. The Festival Manager is expected to work on some evenings and weekends and be onsite for all days of the 50th Atlanta Film Festival (April 23 - May 3, 2026).
This is a contract based position. This position requires an Atlanta-based candidate.
The Atlanta Film Society, in accordance with applicable federal and state law, is an equal-opportunity employer that seeks an inclusive and representative staff and particularly welcomes applications from women and diverse ethnicities. The Atlanta Film Society does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy/childbirth, medical condition, disability, age, ancestry, marital status, citizenship or veteran status. This nondiscrimination policy covers all staff members, interns and volunteers.
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Reports to: Box Office Manager
Position Title: Box Office Lead
Location: On-site during the 50th Annual Atlanta Film FestivalORGANIZATION DESCRIPTION — ATLFF
Now approaching its 50th year, the Atlanta Film Festival (ATLFF) is the Southeast’s preeminent celebration of cinema and the flagship production of the Atlanta Film Society. One of the largest and longest-running festivals in the country, ATLFF showcases the work of both emerging and established artists. Every spring, our 11-day festival presents approximately 150 local and international works representing 50+ countries. Films are selected from as many as 10,000+ submissions (consisting of 8,000+ films and 2,000+ screenplays) sent in from 120+ countries. For multiple years, ATLFF has been named a “Top 50 Festival Worth the Entry Fee” and one of the “25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World” by MovieMaker magazine, as well as USAToday’s “10 Best Film Festivals.” Historically, over 90% of ATLFF’s program is chosen from submissions.
ATLFF actively strives to be an inclusive showcase with spotlights on filmmakers of color, LGBTQ+ films, women and gender nonconforming filmmakers, and filmmakers from the American South. Approximately 75% of the films chosen are directed by filmmakers identifying as BIPOC, female, non-binary, or LGBTQ+. In addition, each year ATLFF seeks to program a variety of genres and film styles, including (but not limited to) experimental films, music videos, comedies, horror and sci-fi, family-friendly films, food films, and puppetry films.’
These priorities for on-screen also extend off-screen with the Atlanta Film Society (ATLFS) striving to make sure that the breadth of Atlanta’s rich diversity in ethnicity, orientation, age, and gender is reflected in our audience, volunteers, jury, staff, and board.
POSITION DESCRIPTION
We are seeking seasonal Box Office support to maintain multiple festival Box Office locations during the 50th Annual Atlanta Film Festival (ATLFF), April 23 - May 3, 2026.
The ideal candidate for this role is highly organized, adaptable, and thrives in dynamic, fast-paced environments. A strong focus on collaboration and problem-solving is essential to deliver a high-quality experience for all festival participants and attendees.
Training on the festival ticketing system will be provided as needed; however, the ideal candidate must be a proactive, creative self-starter with the ability to independently manage detail-oriented tasks within deadlines. Additionally, the candidate should be adept at collaborating effectively with other members of the ATLFF team.
For the duration of the festival, this position will be the front line of ATLFF customer service. It is extremely important that the Box Office Lead(s) is an effective communicator and problem solver, and a personable, friendly, customer-service-oriented team member.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Sell festival passes, tickets, and merchandise at festival venues, ensuring a smooth and efficient customer experience.
Monitor and manage seating inventory, including holds, to ensure accurate availability and reservations.
Maintain and distribute festival passes as required, ensuring proper allocation and access.
Accurately track and report data for all screenings and venues to the Box Office Manager.
Address and resolve any critical issues or concerns promptly and professionally, ensuring customer satisfaction.
Sell Rush Line tickets for sold-out shows.
Work with Plaza & Tara Theatre Staff to distribute accessibility devices.
Perform other duties as assigned to support the success of the event.
EXPECTATIONS
Commitment to the Atlanta Film Society’s mission, with an emphasis on inclusivity and spotlighting underrepresented artists
Reports to Box Office Manager
Attends meetings as needed
SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of or connection to the Atlanta film community is a plus.
Other festival experience is preferred but not required.
Experience with Google Docs, Airtable, and Slack preferred.
Strong organizational and prioritization skills.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
Strong attention to detail and accuracy in recording and tracking information.
Excellent communication skills, including strong computer and proofreading abilities.
Ability to work professionally, efficiently, and under pressure.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
Position is hourly and capped at a $150 a day rate. Payment is remitted on May 4, 2026, at the end of the festival via PayPal (PayPal accounts must be set up in advance).
Upon successful completion of the contract, candidates will receive a 12-month membership to the Atlanta Film Society.
TIMEFRAME & HOURS
This is a seasonal position that lasts between mid April - mid May, 2026. The Box Office Coordinator is expected to be on-site for all days of the 50th Atlanta Film Festival (April 22 - May 4, 2026) and festival load out on Monday, May 5, 2025.
April 22 - May 4, 2026:
April 22 is scheduled as a training date.
May 4 is festival loadout.
This is a contract-based position. This position requires an Atlanta-based candidate or one who can provide their own lodging in Atlanta during the festival.
The Atlanta Film Society, in accordance with applicable federal and state law, is an equal-opportunity employer that seeks an inclusive and representative staff and particularly welcomes applications from women and diverse ethnicities. The Atlanta Film Society does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy/childbirth, medical condition, disability, age, ancestry, marital status, citizenship or veteran status. This nondiscrimination policy covers all staff members, interns and volunteers.
ORGANIZATION DESCRIPTION
The Atlanta Film Festival (ATLFF), presented by the Atlanta Film Society (ATLFS), is one of the largest and longest-running preeminent celebrations of cinema in the Southeast United States featuring 150 events in 10 days. Approximately 27,000 festival attendees enjoy independent, animated, documentary, and short films each year, selected from over 5,000 submissions from 120 countries. In 2016, ATLFS was named “Best Nonprofit in Atlanta” by Creative Loafing readers and ATLFF was named “Best Spring Festival in Atlanta” by Atlanta Journal-Constitution readers. In addition, ATLFS schedules year-round events to keep cinema in the forefront and the art & culture community talking.