- If selected, please reach out to your assigned Volunteer Resources Coordinator if you have any availability changes or schedule requests. We will try our best to accommodate when possible, but we cannot always guarantee a certain schedule as a Full Time or Part Time Assigned Volunteer.
Confirmed Volunteers are also required to complete certain training prior to the Festival. Onsite or online training is provided for most Volunteer roles in the weeks and/or days leading up to the Festival. A welcome email from your Festival team, training materials for review and Zoom orientation may also be sent ahead of time to ensure volunteers feel set up for success. During training, volunteers can expect to learn about the what, why, and how in relation to their tasks and additional expectations specific to their role placement.
3. Confirm Placement
Applications are assessed by the Volunteer Resources Team based on your answers to our required questions, experience, general availability, application submission date, and the needs of the Festival. Until all roles have been filled, approved applicants may receive a phone call (435 area code) or email from a Volunteer Resources Coordinator to discuss availability and role placement. Volunteer Resources Coordinators start their roles in the fall, which means volunteers will not be contacted for placement until then.
- If you are not selected for role placement, you can expect to receive a notification email in December from the Volunteer Resources Team informing you that your application will not move forward.
Applicants who have been selected for a role will receive an onboarding email from a Volunteer Resources Coordinator. This email will include the Volunteer Agreement, Volunteer Expectations, Community Agreement, and the Position Description. The paperwork included in this email should be completed as soon as possible as your official role placement is contingent upon signing and submitting.
- Please note thatvolunteering for the Sundance Film Festival does require attention to details, adherence to deadlines, and timely communication. Preparation and training may happen at any point after being placed in a role. If a volunteer chooses to accept a role, they should expect to set aside time to prepare for the Festival and meet deadlines as needed.
Once you confirm your placement and sign the appropriate documents, you will be added to your team’s “Opportunity” page in Bloomerang Volunteer (the same website you used to submit an application). This Opportunity Page will contain information specific to your role and your team such as your supervisor contact information, training documents, venue/location details, etc.
If you need to adjust your volunteer commitment level, update lodging status details, or cancel your application prior to a Volunteer Resources Coordinator reaching out to you about placement, please contact us at volunteers@sundance.org or 435-776-7870.
2. Apply
The 2025 Festival Volunteer Application is now available! To submit your application, visit Bloomerang Volunteer (linked here) for next steps.
- If you are a returning applicant, please login using the same email and password as last time, but if this is your first time applying, create an account and fill out the form questions. If selected, this website is also how you will access your schedule so be sure to save your login information.
- Our application is designed to help our team better understand why you want to volunteer for the Sundance Film Festival and to find roles that could potentially be a good fit. The Application includes questions related to your background, lodging status, location and team choice, and other preferences.
Once you apply, you should receive a confirmation email notifying you that we have your application in our system. This confirmation email does not guarantee a spot as a volunteer and applicants should wait to hear from a member of the Volunteer Resources Team regarding placement. If you do not receive the application confirmation email, check your spam inbox or reach out to us to confirm it’s been submitted.
The application will remain open until all roles have been filled but we recommend applying as soon as possible.
IMPORTANT DEADLINES
- Managerial Interest Deadline: September 13, 2024 – If you are interested in a managerial role, please apply by this deadline to help us begin with management placement early on.
- Alumni Priority Application Deadline: October 18, 2024 – Applying before this deadline helps to lock in priority for past roles as applicable. Alumni can still apply after the deadline, but may lose priority for the position they held last.
- Cancellation Deadline: December 13, 2024 – If you have been confirmed to volunteer, canceling after this deadline may impact your standing with us for future opportunities.
1. Review Info
Before submitting your application, we encourage you to review the following information to help you prepare:
The 2025 Sundance Film Festival will take place from January 23, 2025, to February 2, 2025.
Volunteers can expect to be placed in either Park City or Salt Lake City, depending on their preference. We do not currently have virtual opportunities for volunteers.
We have three different commitment levels available for volunteers.
- Full Time
- Volunteers will be assigned a schedule throughout the entire Festival. Typically, these roles will have shifts every day from January 23, 2025, to February 2, 2025. Required training and shifts outside of this date range are role dependent and subject to change. On average, Full Time Volunteers will have shifts ranging from 6 to 8 hours, for a schedule with approximately 80 hours of service across 11 days of the Festival.
- Volunteers will be assigned a schedule for approximately 6 consecutive days of the Festival. These roles generally fall between January 23, 2025, to January 29, 2025. Required training and shifts outside of this date range are role dependent and subject to change. On average, Part Time Assigned Volunteers will have shifts ranging from 6 to 8 hours, for a schedule with approximately 40 to 60 hours of service across 6 days of the Festival.
- Volunteers will be able to select their own shifts throughout the dates of the Festival. On designated Sign Up Days, volunteers will log in and select shifts posted across all Festival days that are available within your role placement. Sign Up Volunteers must select shifts that add up to at least 24 hours of service, which is the minimum requirement. On average, shifts will be 6 to 8 hours.
The Festival Volunteer Areas of Interest Catalog is an overview of the different teams and areas of the Festival where you could be placed as a volunteer. There are a variety of options available that could align with your interests and experience, so we encourage you to review the catalog before applying.
The 2025 Festival Volunteer Application and Onboarding Checklist is an easy way for applicants and confirmed volunteers to keep track of all the things that need to be completed before you get to the Festival.
Volunteer, Assistant Prop Master
This is an unpaid, volunteer role with Sundance Institute.
LOCATION AND CONSIDERATIONS:
This position is required to live onsite at the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, CO, in accommodations provided by the Sundance Institute at the Stanley Hotel. Sundance Institute will also provide air and ground transportation to and from the Hotel and meals onsite.
POSITION DATES:
- Saturday, May 4, 2024 – Tuesday, May 21, 2024
POSITION SUMMARY:
Support prop master with props and sets during rehearsal and production.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Read scripts to understand fellows set dressing/floor plan vision
- Work with prop master and crew chiefs to execute set dressing, set builds, and props coordination.
- Assist Prop Master with prop research, purchases and tasks as assigned..
- Help Prop Master ensure sets are built and dressed prior to 9:00 am each production day.
- Assist Prop Master in Break down, inventory, and pack props to ensure proper storage into storage unit
- Handle budgets as needed per direction from Prop Master.
- Attend required on-site pre production and production meetings.
- Support the Prop Master and Production Supervisor during rehearsals and shooting days.
- Other duties as assigned.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS
- Valid driver’s license and successful completion of DMV background check.
- Must be 21 years of age or older.
- Film related degree or relative industry experience preferred.
- Narrative film crew experience preferred.
- Working knowledge of set design and set dressing. .
- Excellent attention to detail and communication skills.
- Able to work in a multi-tasking environment.
- Ability to drive production vehicles such as cargo and minivans.
- Able to lift, carry, and push heavy items that weigh 10-50 lbs.
Please email volunteers@sundance.org with any questions
Volunteer, Production Crew, Crew Chief
This is a volunteer role with Sundance Institute.
LOCATION AND CONSIDERATIONS:
This position is required to live onsite at the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, CO, in accommodations provided by the Sundance Institute at the Stanley Hotel. Sundance Institute will also provide air and ground transportation to and from the Hotel and meals onsite.
POSITION DATES:
- Saturday, May 4, 2024 to Tuesday, May 21, 2024
POSITION SUMMARY:
Oversee production crew and sets during production. Ensure crew are trained and sets are set up and torn down within the scheduled time frame.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Train crew at the direction of Production Supervisor.
- Read assigned scripts and assess filmmaker needs.
- Collaborates with the director to understand the needs of the movie, scene and characters.
- Collaborate with other Crew Chiefs and Production Supervisor to organize day to day shoot logistics.
- Distribute production equipment to four crews and technical directors as directed.
- Ensure production and post-production staff have adequate expendable items to perform daily operations.
- Ensure a safe production environment.
- Manage stage and location set up and wrap out.
- Break down, inventory, and pack loaner production equipment. Inventory all Sundance owned equipment.
- Help the Directors realize their vision and the importance of preparation, planning and execution for a film set.
- Support the Production Supervisor in the management of schedules, production logistics, production meetings and Sundance events.
- Meet with Production Manager/Supervisor to discuss what did and did not work throughout the lab to help improve future labs.
- Assist in managing all crew activities during the lab.
- Manage one crew for two directors during the lab production days.
- Other duties as assigned.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
- Valid driver’s license and successful completion of DMV background check preferred.
- Must be 21 years of age or older.
- Film related degree or relative industry experience preferred.
- Narrative film crew experience preferred.
- Working knowledge of Digital Cinematography Equipment including: cameras, lighting, sound, grip, editing, etc.
- Must have experience as an Assistant Director.
- Excellent organizational and communication skills required.
- Must be self-motivated and excel as a leader.
- Ability to operate production vehicles such as cargo and minivans.
- Ability to lift, carry, and push heavy items that weigh 10-50 lbs.
Please email volunteers@sundance.org with any questions.
Volunteer, Lead Gaffer
This is an unpaid, volunteer role with Sundance Institute.
LOCATION AND CONSIDERATIONS:
This position is required to live onsite at the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, CO, in accommodations provided by the Sundance Institute at the Stanley Hotel. Sundance Institute will also provide air and ground transportation to and from the Hotel and meals onsite.
POSITION DATES:
- Saturday, May 4, 2024 to Tuesday, May 21, 2024
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Volunteer, Lead Gaffer will assist the Crew Chief in setting lighting and grip equipment while maintaining a safe and clean set. This role will also assist camera, production and art as needed.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Coordinate and organize gaffer team for load in and load out.
- Ensure all grip, electric and lighting related equipment is unpacked, tracked and repacked for safe return.
- Research and ensure proper operation of grip and electric equipment. Properly unpack and repack all production equipment.
- Properly set up various elements of a film set to include grip and electric gear and set assembly.
- Train PA’s in proper operation and safety of grip and electric equipment.
- Collaborate with Crew Chief and Production Supervisor.
- Ensure grip and electric equipment is organized and prepared prior to filming.
- Build, dress, and ready set for production. Read scripts.
- Break down, inventory, and pack production loaner equipment.
- Attend required production meetings.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS
- Thorough knowledge of grip, lighting, and dolly equipment.
- Working knowledge of HD digital workflow and associated filmmaking equipment.
- Thorough knowledge of rigging and set safety.
- Thorough Knowledge of power distribution for low impact location shooting.
- Must be 21 years of age or older.
- Working knowledge of proper set etiquette.
- Able to work in a multi tasked environment.
- Able to lift, carry, and push heavy items that weigh 10-75 lbs.
- Valid driver’s license and successful completion of DMV background check preferred.
- Film related degree or relative industry experience preferred.
- Narrative film crew experience preferred.
Please email volunteers@sundance.org with any questions.
Volunteer, Gaffer
This is an unpaid, volunteer role with Sundance Institute.
LOCATION AND CONSIDERATIONS:
This position is required to live onsite at the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, CO, in accommodations provided by the Sundance Institute at the Stanley Hotel. Sundance Institute will also provide air and ground transportation to and from the Hotel and meals onsite.
POSITION DATES:
- Saturday, May 4, 2024 to Tuesday, May 21, 2024
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Volunteer,, Gaffer will assist the Crew Chief in setting lighting and grip equipment while maintaining a safe and clean set. This role will also assist camera, production and art as needed.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Research and ensure proper operation of grip and electric equipment. Properly unpack and repack all production equipment.
- Properly set up various elements of a film set to include grip and electric gear and set assembly.
- Train PA’s in proper operation and safety of grip and electric equipment.
- Collaborate with Crew Chief and Production Supervisor.
- Ensure grip and electric equipment is organized and prepped prior to filming.
- Build, dress, and ready set for production. Read scripts.
- Break down, inventory, and pack production loaner equipment.
- Attend required production meetings.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS
- Thorough knowledge of grip, lighting, and dolly equipment.
- Working knowledge of HD digital workflow and associated filmmaking equipment.
- Thorough knowledge of rigging and set safety.
- Must be 21 years of age or older.
- Valid driver’s license and successful completion of DMV background check preferred.
- Film related degree or relative industry experience preferred.
- Narrative film crew experience preferred.
Please email volunteers@sundance.org with any questions.
Volunteer, Assistant to Production Supervisor
This is an unpaid, volunteer role with Sundance Institute.
LOCATION AND CONSIDERATIONS:
This position is required to live onsite at the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, CO, in accommodations provided by the Sundance Institute at the Stanley Hotel. Sundance Institute will also provide air and ground transportation to and from the Hotel and meals onsite.
POSITION DATES:
- Saturday, May 4, 2024 to Tuesday, May 21, 2024
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Participates and actively contributes to daily production meetings.
- Coordinates training and equipment tests.
- Coordinates location scouts.
- Coordinates equipment during production.
- Monitor Rehearsals.
- Perform any crew position needed.
- Coordinate crew load in/out.
- Coordinate crew transportation.
- Thoroughly reads all 8 selected scripts to prepare for the lab.
- Help to coordinate current inventory and assess Director’s Lab equipment needs, cross-referencing with a list of loaner equipment to ensure needed equipment is acquired.
- Assist in coordination of crew, shooting schedule, and rehearsal schedule.
- Other duties as assigned.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS
- Valid driver’s license and successful completion of DMV background check preferred.
- Must be 21 years of age or older.
- Film related degree or relative industry experience preferred.
- Narrative film crew experience preferred.
- 3 years production experience in film or tv preferred.
- Working knowledge of Digital Cinematography Equipment including: cameras, lighting, sound, grip, editing, etc.
- Excellent organizational and communication skills required.
- Ability to design, test and implement media technology workflow.
- Proficient with PC and Mac operation, networking and hardware.
- Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work successfully with all levels of staff and a diverse group of personalities.
- Ability to operate production vehicles such as cargo and minivans.
- Ability to lift, carry, and push heavy items that weigh 10-50 lbs.
Please email volunteers@sundance.org with any questions.
Volunteer, Director of Photography
This is an unpaid, volunteer role with Sundance Institute.
LOCATION AND CONSIDERATIONS:
This position is required to live onsite at the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, CO, in accommodations provided by the Sundance Institute at the Stanley Hotel. Sundance Institute will also provide air and ground transportation to and from the Hotel and meals onsite.
POSITION DATES:
- Wednesday, May 8, 2024 – Sunday, May 20, 2024
POSITION SUMMARY:
- Serve as DP/camera operator for 2 assigned Directing Fellows.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Pre-Lab: read assigned scripts and review production schedule.
- Pre-Lab: begin pre-production creative discussions with assigned Directing Fellows.
- Participate in all prep week programming, including “Using Camera to Tell Story” workshop, one-on-one meetings, production meetings, and location scouts with Fellows.
- Shoot exercise scenes with Fellows. Collaborate with Crew Chiefs, Gaffers, Assistant Camera, Editors and DP’s on shared equipment and workflow protocol.
- Attend blocking rehearsals, run-throughs, and key crew production meetings prior to each round of production.
- Participate in Wrap meetings.
- Act as a creative partner in preparation and execution.
- Other duties as assigned.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS
- Valid driver’s license and successful completion of DMV background check preferred.
- Must be 21 years of age or older.
- Film related degree or equivalent industry experience.
- Minimum 1-2 narrative independent features as Director of Photography.
- Experience working with directors to effectively craft a visual story.
- Able to shoot on digital video with minimal lighting package and crew.
- Knowledge of Digital workflow.
- Able to serve as camera operator.
- Able to work in a collaborative workshop environment.
- Able to lift, carry, and push heavy items that weigh 10-50 lbs.
Please email volunteers@sundance.org with any questions.
Volunteer, Post-Production, Assistant Editor
This is an unpaid, volunteer role with Sundance Institute.
LOCATION AND CONSIDERATIONS:
This position is required to live onsite at the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, CO, in accommodations provided by the Sundance Institute at the Stanley Hotel. Sundance Institute will also provide air and ground transportation to and from the Hotel and meals onsite.
POSITION DATES:
- Sunday, May 5, 2024 – Wednesday, May 22, 2024
POSITION SUMMARY:
Work closely with an established editor in support of two emerging filmmakers’ projects in a month-long intensive workshop setting.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Set up and ensure all hardware is functioning in the editing suites
- Read assigned scripts and assess filmmakers post-production needs
- Assist editor with any technical issues
- Prepare cuts for output and assist projectionist during screenings to ensure proper audio levels and image is on screen
- Break down post-production equipment
- Inventory equipment by corporation and inspect for loss and/or damages
- Pack equipment
- Final outputs reviewed, arranged, and backed up to Lab’s hard drives and servers
- Prepare final outputs for Fellows
- Prepare final outputs for Composers Lab Tech Director
- Other duties as assigned
POSITION REQUIREMENTS
- Working knowledge of digital editing equipment including: AVID Media Composer, AVID Nitris DX, sound mixers, card-based media formats, Adobe Premiere Pro, Adobe Media Encoder, basic PC and Mac operation, etc.
- Basic understanding of narrative film editing
- Excellent organizational and communication skills required
- Must be self-motivated and excel as a leader and team member
- Able to lift, carry, and push heavy items that weigh 10-50 lbs.
- Bachelor’s Degree preferred.
- Must be 21 years of age or older.
- Valid driver’s license and successful completion of DMV background check preferred.
- Experience supporting narrative film editing
Please email volunteers@sundance.org with any questions.
Volunteer, Editor
This is an unpaid, volunteer role with Sundance Institute.
LOCATION AND CONSIDERATIONS:
This position is required to live onsite at the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, CO, in accommodations provided by the Sundance Institute at the Stanley Hotel. Sundance Institute will also provide air and ground transportation to and from the Hotel and meals onsite.
POSITION DATES:
- Wednesday, May 8, 2024 – Tuesday, May 21, 2024
POSITION SUMMARY:
- Work as an editor in support of two emerging filmmakers’ projects in a month-long intensive workshop setting.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Pre-Lab: read scripts of 2 assigned Lab projects and review post-production schedule.
- Pre-Lab: begin pre-production conversation with 2 assigned Directing Fellows.
- Participate in all prep week programming, including “Using Camera to Tell Story” workshop, one-on-one meetings, production meetings, and editor/asst. editor meetings.
- Work with Directing Fellows on assigned days to view dailies and edit workshop scenes. Operate the AVID system. Communicate tech needs to asst. editor and post-production supervisor as needed.
- Participate in wrap meetings.
- Assist directing fellows in choosing which scenes to work on during the re-edit day and in revisiting those scenes in the edit.
- Act as a creative partner in preparation and execution.
- Other duties as assigned
POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
- Valid driver’s license and successful completion of DMV background check preferred.
- Must be 21 years of age.
- Film-related degree or equivalent industry experience.
- Minimum 1-2 recent fiction independent feature credits as lead editor.
- Working knowledge of digital editing equipment including: AVID Media Composer, AVID Nitris DX, sound mixers, card-based media formats, Adobe Premiere Pro, Adobe Media Encoder, basic PC and Mac operation, etc.
- Basic understanding of narrative film editing
- Excellent organizational and communication skills required
- Must be self-motivated and excel as a leader and team member
- Able to lift, carry, and push heavy items that weigh 10-50 lbs.
Please email volunteers@sundance.org with any questions.
Volunteer, Production Crew, Assistant Camera
This is an unpaid, volunteer role with Sundance Institute.
LOCATION AND CONSIDERATIONS:
This position is required to live onsite at the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, CO, in accommodations provided by the Sundance Institute at the Stanley Hotel. Sundance Institute will also provide air and ground transportation to and from the Hotel and meals onsite.
POSITION DATES:
- Monday , May 6, 2024 – Tuesday,, May 21, 2024
POSITION SUMMARY:
Assist Crew Chief in setting camera gear while maintaining a safe and clean set. Assist lighting and art as needed.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Research and ensure proper operation of camera equipment. Properly unpack and repack all camera and production equipment.
- Properly set up sets
- Train PA’s in proper operation and safety of camera equipment.
- Ensure camera and associated equipment are set and ready.
- Perform camera equipment and lens tests as requested by Production Supervisor.
- Build, dress, and ready set for production. Read scripts.
- Break down, inventory, and pack production loaner equipment.
- Attend required production meetings.
- Collaborate with Crew Chief, DP and Production Supervisor.
- Collaborate with assistant camera team for daily equipment needs.
- Other duties as assigned.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS
- Film related degree or relative industry experience preferred.
- Narrative film crew experience preferred.
- Thorough knowledge of camera equipment.
- Working knowledge of HD workflow, HD cameras, zoom lenses, prime lenses, filters, and associated camera equipment.
- Working knowledge of proper set etiquette.
- Ability to pull focus and maintain video media.
- Excellent attention to detail and communication skills.
- Able to work in a multi-tasking environment.
- Able to lift, carry, and push heavy items that weigh 10-50 lbs.
- Ability to drive production vehicles such as cargo and minivans.
- Valid driver’s license and successful completion of DMV background check preferred.
- Must be 21 years of age or older.
Please email volunteers@sundance.org with any questions.
Volunteer, Production Crew, Lead Assistant Camera
This is an unpaid, volunteer role with Sundance Institute.
LOCATION AND CONSIDERATIONS:
This position is required to live onsite at the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, CO, in accommodations provided by the Sundance Institute at the Stanley Hotel. Sundance Institute will also provide air and ground transportation to and from the Hotel and meals onsite.
POSITION DATES:
- Saturday, May 4, 2024 – Tuesday, May 21, 2024
POSITION SUMMARY:
Assist Crew Chief in setting camera gear while maintaining a safe and clean set. Assist lighting and art as needed.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Coordinate and organize assistant camera team for load in and load out.
- Ensure all camera related equipment is unpacked, tracked and repacked for safe return.
- Research and ensure proper operation of camera equipment. Properly unpack and repack all camera and production equipment.
- Properly set up sets
- Train PA’s in proper operation and safety of camera equipment.
- Ensure camera and associated equipment are set and ready.
- Perform camera equipment and lens tests as requested by Production Supervisor.
- Build, dress, and ready set for production. Read scripts.
- Break down, inventory, and pack production loaner equipment.
- Attend required production meetings.
- Collaborate with Crew Chief, DP and Production Supervisor.
- Collaborate with assistant camera team for daily equipment needs.
- Other duties as assigned.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS
- Film related degree or relative industry experience preferred.
- Valid driver’s license and successful completion of DMV background check preferred.
- Must be 21 years of age or older.
- Narrative film crew experience preferred.
- Thorough knowledge of camera equipment.
- Working knowledge of HD workflow, HD cameras, zoom lenses, prime lenses, filters, and associated camera equipment.
- Working knowledge of proper set etiquette.
- Ability to pull focus and maintain video media.
- Excellent attention to detail and communication skills.
- Able to work in a multi-tasking environment.
- Able to lift, carry, and push heavy items that weigh 10-50 lbs.
- Ability to drive production vehicles such as cargo and minivans.
Please email volunteers@sundance.org with any questions.
Volunteer, Prop Master
This is an unpaid, volunteer role with Sundance Institute.
LOCATION AND CONSIDERATIONS:
This position is required to live onsite at the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, CO, in accommodations provided by the Sundance Institute at the Stanley Hotel. Sundance Institute will also provide air and ground transportation to and from the Hotel and meals onsite.
POSITION DATES:
- Saturday, May 4, 2024 – Tuesday, May 21, 2023
POSITION SUMMARY:
Oversee props and sets during production. Ensure Directors workshop needs are met and sets are set up and torn down within the scheduled time frame.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Attend weekly lab meetings starting in March/ April
- Read scripts to understand fellows set dressing/floor plan vision
- Work with fellows and crew chiefs to plan/design floor plans and props
- Ensure all floor plans, set designs, key prop requirements and locations are in place prior to the first day of rehearsal.
- Assist Production Supervisor with location scouts and production logistics.
- Ensure sets are built and dressed prior to 9:00 am each production day.
- Break down, inventory, and pack props to ensure proper storage into storage unit
- Work within assigned budget defined by the Senior Manager of Program Operations and Production Supervisor, purchase new props if needed.
- Attend required on-site pre production and production meetings.
- Conference with Directing Fellows for preproduction and production elements before and during the lab.
- Ensure any construction elements are built safely and on time for production.
- Other duties as assigned.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS
- Valid driver’s license and successful completion of DMV background check.
- Must be 21 years of age or older.
- Film related degree or relative industry experience preferred.
- Narrative film crew experience preferred.
- Working knowledge of set design and set dressing.
- Able to direct staff to accomplish the end result.
- Excellent attention to detail and communication skills.
- Able to work in a multi-tasking environment.
- Ability to drive production vehicles such as cargo and minivans.
- Able to lift, carry, and push heavy items that weigh 10-50 lbs.
Please email volunteers@sundance.org with any questions
Volunteer, Production Crew, Script Supervisor
This is a volunteer role with Sundance Institute.
LOCATION AND CONSIDERATIONS:
This position is required to live onsite at the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, CO, in accommodations provided by the Sundance Institute at the Stanley Hotel. Sundance Institute will also provide air and ground transportation to and from the Hotel and meals onsite.
POSITION DATES:
- Wednesday, May 8, 2024 – Monday, May 20, 2024
POSITION SUMMARY:
Assist Crew Chief by collaborating with the Director on the organization of the scripted story, pace and continuity.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Work with the two assigned scripts to breakdown and organize the scenes that will be workshopped at the lab.
- Collaborates with the director and crew chief to understand the needs of the movie, scene and characters
- Tracking the amount of footage the Director wants to digitize.
- Coordinate script changes as requested.
- Ensure that all the coverage the director needs for a scene is captured within a 60 min block for digitizing.
- Deliver the media and their notes to the editors immediately after wrap.
- Prep with another Director and prepare for the next day’s shoot.
- Collaborate with Crew Chief and Production Supervisor.
- Other duties as assigned.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS
- Valid driver’s license and successful completion of DMV background check.
- Must be 21 years of age or older.
- Film related degree or relative industry experience preferred.
- Narrative film crew experience preferred.
- Able to work in a collaborative and experimental environment.
- Knowledge of set etiquette and current production techniques.
- Able to lift, carry, and push heavy items that weigh 10-25 lbs.
- Attention to detail with dialogue, scenes, continuity, shot selection, eye line, run times, editor/script notes.
- Excellent organizational and communication skills required.
- Working knowledge of proper set etiquette.
- Excellent attention to detail and communication skills.
- Able to work in a multi tasked environment.
- Ability to operate production vehicles such as cargo and minivans.
Please email volunteers@sundance.org with any questions
Volunteer, Production Crew Sound Mixer
This is an unpaid, volunteer role with Sundance Institute.
LOCATION AND CONSIDERATIONS:
This position is required to live onsite at the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, CO, in accommodations provided by the Sundance Institute at the Stanley Hotel. Sundance Institute will also provide air and ground transportation to and from the Hotel and meals onsite.
POSITION DATES:
- Monday, May 6, 2024 – Tuesday, May 21, 2024
POSITION SUMMARY:
Assist Crew Chief by setting up audio recording equipment while maintaining a safe and clean set. Capture broadcast quality sound recordings for narrative films. Assist camera, grip and art as needed.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Research and ensure proper operation of sound equipment. Properly unpack and repack all production equipment.
- Properly set up sets.
- Train PA’s in proper operation and safety of sound equipment.
- Collaborate with Crew Chief, Editors, Mixers and Production Supervisor.
- Ensure sound equipment is organized and ready.
- Provide broadcast quality sound mixing and train PA in the art of operating a boom.
- Build, dress, and ready set for production. Read scripts.
- Break down, inventory, and pack production loaner equipment.
- Attend required production meetings.
- Read Scripts.
- Support live event audio when needed.
- Other duties as assigned.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS
- Valid driver’s license and successful completion of DMV background check.
- Must be 21 years of age or older.
- Film related degree or relative industry experience preferred.
- Narrative film crew experience preferred.
- Thorough knowledge of sound equipment.
- Working knowledge of production audio workflow.
- Thorough knowledge of sound mixers, shotgun microphones, wireless microphones, boom operation, and associated sound equipment.
- Working knowledge of proper set etiquette.
- Excellent attention to detail and communication skills.
- Able to work in a multi-tasking environment.
- Able to lift, carry, and push heavy items that weigh 10-50 lbs.
- Ability to operate production vehicles such as cargo and minivans.
Please email volunteers@sundance.org with any questions.
Volunteer, Production Crew, Lead Sound Mixer
This is an unpaid, volunteer role with Sundance Institute.
LOCATION AND CONSIDERATIONS:
This position is required to live onsite at the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, CO, in accommodations provided by the Sundance Institute at the Stanley Hotel. Sundance Institute will also provide air and ground transportation to and from the Hotel and meals onsite.
POSITION DATES:
- Saturday, May 4, 2024 – Tuesday, May 21, 2024
POSITION SUMMARY:
Assist Crew Chief by setting up audio recording equipment while maintaining a safe and clean set. Capture broadcast quality sound recordings for narrative films. Assist camera, grip and art as needed.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Coordinate and Organize Sound team for load in and load out.
- Ensure all sound related equipment is unpacked, tracked and repacked for safe return.
- Research and ensure proper operation of sound equipment. Properly unpack and repack all production equipment.
- Properly set up sets.
- Train PA’s in proper operation and safety of sound equipment.
- Collaborate with Crew Chief, Editors, Mixers and Production Supervisor.
- Ensure sound equipment is organized and ready.
- Provide broadcast quality sound mixing and train PA in the art of operating a boom.
- Build, dress, and ready set for production. Read scripts.
- Break down, inventory, and pack production loaner equipment.
- Attend required production meetings.
- Read Scripts
- Support live event audio when needed.
- Other duties as assigned.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS
- Valid driver’s license and successful completion of DMV background check preferred.
- Must be 21 years of age or older.
- Film related degree or relative industry experience preferred.
- Thorough knowledge of sound equipment.
- Working knowledge of production audio workflow.
- Thorough knowledge of sound mixers, shotgun microphones, wireless microphones, boom operation, and associated sound equipment.
- Working knowledge of proper set etiquette.
- Excellent attention to detail and communication skills.
- Able to work in a multi-tasking environment.
- Able to lift, carry, and push heavy items that weigh 10-50 lbs.
- Ability to operate production vehicles such as cargo and minivans.
Please email volunteers@sundance.org with any questions.
Float and General Support Volunteer
This is an unpaid, volunteer role with Sundance Institute.
LOCATION AND CONSIDERATIONS:
This position is required to live onsite at the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, CO, in accommodations provided by the Sundance Institute at the Stanley Hotel. Sundance Institute will also provide air and ground transportation to and from the Hotel and meals onsite.
POSITION DATES:
- 2 Volunteers from May 2, 2024 – May 23, 2024 (21 Days)
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Labs Volunteers, Float and General Support will be responsible for supporting the Directors Lab Operation and Production teams with a wide range of projects. Labs Volunteers will be assigned hours (often 8-10 hrs at a time). Weekend and early evening coverage required, with 1.5 days off per week.
Labs Volunteers will alternate between two roles – Float & General Support. On days assigned as a Floater, Volunteers will assist numerous departments in a variety of areas including equipment moving and set up, supply runs, event set up and facilitation, and other projects as assigned. These days may have periods of high intensity paired with periods of being “on-call”. On alternate days when Volunteers are assigned to General Support, they will be stationed in our Labs office for their full shift. Volunteers will act as the first point of contact for greeting guests, field logistical & directional questions, assist with check ins, and support other office administration tasks.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Support all aspects of the Lab as needed, including production, operations, office administrations, meals and events.
- Greet participants in the Lab Operations office, and field and needs or questions
- Assist with management of the Lab Operations office, including monitoring the phone, locking/unlocking the space, flagging any low office supply inventory for restock, and other admin projects as assigned.
- Assist with check in of participants; help with preparing merchandise and badges; support with data entry and other guest relations duties as needed.
- Move equipment and supplies between spaces, including Operations materials and film production equipment; set up equipment as needed.
- Restock snack stations and office supplies.
- Complete runs and errands using a Lab provided vehicle.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS
- Excellent customer service skills, interpersonal and communications skills
- Excellent organizational abilities
- Be able to work a flexible schedule, work well under pressure, and meet deadlines
- Strong computer skills, including Google Suite and some database knowledge
- Ability to complete heavy data entry
- Ability to bend, lift, and carry 50lbs or more
- Ability to walk and stand for long periods of time
- Ability to read documents for analytical purposes, high degree of accuracy (reports)
- Valid driver’s license and successful completion of DMV background check required.
Please email volunteers@sundance.org with any questions.
VOLUNTEER APPLICATION AND PLACEMENT OVERVIEW
Please review the timeline below to understand the steps and process involved in becoming a Festival Volunteer. If you have any questions, please contact us at volunteers@sundance.org or (435) 776-7870.
1. Complete the Online Application: Our application is available on this page starting at the end of the summer. You will be asked to complete all required sections, including your volunteer type, commitment level, areas of interest, experience, and a clear photo of yourself (headshot). The application will remain open until all roles have been filled. We recommend applying as soon as possible when the application opens.
2. Application Waiting Period: Applicants will receive an automatic email response confirming our database has received your application. Please note that applying to be a Festival Volunteer and receiving this automatic email response does not guarantee you will be offered placement . Once that automatic email response is received, applicants should wait for a member of the Volunteer Resources Team to reach out to them directly. If you need to adjust your volunteer commitment level, update lodging status details, or cancel your application, please contact volunteers@sundance.org .
3. Application Assessment: Volunteer Resources Coordinators start their roles in September/October, which means volunteers will not be contacted for placement until the late fall (unless you have applied for a Volunteer Managerial/Supervisory role). Applications are assessed by the Volunteer Resources Team based on your answers to our required questions, experience, general availability, application submission date, and the needs of the Festival.
4. Role Placement: Until all roles have been filled, approved applicants may receive a phone call (435 area code) or email from a Volunteer Resources Coordinator to discuss availability and role placement. If you are not selected for role placement, you can expect to receive a notification email in December from the Volunteer Resources Team that your application will not move forward.
5. Onboarding: Applicants who have been selected for a role will receive an onboarding email from a Volunteer Resources Coordinator. This email will include the Volunteer Agreement, Volunteer Expectations, Community Agreement, and the Position Description. The paperwork included in this email should be completed as soon as possible as your official role placement is contingent upon signing and submitting. . Please note that volunteering for the Sundance Film Festival does require attention to details, adherence to deadlines, and timely communication. Preparation and trainings may happen at any point after being placed in a role. If a volunteer chooses to accept a role, they should expect to set aside time to prepare for the Festival and meet deadlines as needed.
6. Schedules and Shift Assignments: After all onboarding paperwork is completed, volunteers can expect the following based on their commitment level –
- Part Time Sign Up Volunteers will have a designated schedule “Sign Up Days” communicated to them. These volunteers will log into their profiles and select shifts posted across all Festival days that are available and meet the required minimum hours within their role placement.
- Full Time and Part Time Assigned Volunteers will receive their assigned schedules anytime between mid December through the beginning of January.
7. Training and Preparing for Shifts: In addition to the Volunteer Resources Orientation, onsite or online training is provided for most Volunteer roles in the weeks and/or days leading up to the Festival. A welcome email from the assigned team and training materials for review may also be sent ahead of time to ensure volunteers feel set up for success. At training, volunteers can expect to learn about the what, why, and how in relation to their tasks and additional expectations specific to their role placement. Pro Tip: Use this time to ask questions directly to your onsite supervisor(s) or your assigned Volunteer Coordinator.
8. The Festival: Get out there and have fun! Volunteers are the lifeblood of the Festival and bring their energy, enthusiasm, and passion while helping thousands of film lovers and supporters of original storytelling. Between shifts, be sure to catch incredible films, make new friends, visit the Volunteer Hub, and take in the Festival atmosphere.
