53111

Motion pictures, broadcasting, photography and performing arts assistants and operators

TEER 3 — College diploma, shorter apprenticeship or 6+ months training

Express Entry skill level: Yes
Regulated in Québec: No
In demand in Manitoba: No

Classification

Art, culture, recreation & sport

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Definition

Assistants and operators in motion pictures, broadcasting, photography and the performing arts perform duties related to these fields. They are employed by television and radio stations and networks, recording studios, motion picture and video production companies and by theatre and stage companies.

Main duties

This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Camera crane operators
Set up, assemble, adjust, maintain and replace reels and projector equipment; detect and repair mechanical and electrical problems; and change and install an electronic control panel using automated equipment.
Motion picture projectionists
Check the condition of the copy; set up and load film reels on movie theatre projection systems, adjust focus, sound levels and other projector and theatre settings; and maintain projection equipment.
Props persons and set builders
Assemble, repair, place, build and oversee props.
Script assistants
Distribute scripts to actors; keep detailed notes of all actions, positions and camera angles; and photograph and date scenes.
Grips and riggers
Rig, place, move and dismantle sets, backdrops, scenery and other stage equipment.
Dressers
Clean, maintain, transport and store costumes, and assist performers to dress in costumes.
Production assistants
Provide support to the director and producer, and are responsible for various aspects of production such as preparing schedules, setting up equipment, and making travel arrangements to various shooting locations.

Example job titles

•boom grip
•camera crane operator
•dresser - motion pictures, broadcasting and performing arts
•lighting assistant
•production assistant
•prompter
•props person
•script assistant

Overview

National Occupational Classification (NOC) code 53111 encompasses motion pictures, broadcasting, photography, and performing arts assistants and operators. Classified under TEER 3 of the ESDC NOC 2021 system, this category includes vital technical support roles such as camera operator assistants, production assistants, stagehands, darkroom assistants, and motion picture projectionists. These professionals support the production, broadcast, and performance processes in various creative and technical environments across Canada.

According to the official ESDC guidelines, individuals in NOC 53111 perform duties such as setting up, preparing, and operating specialized equipment for media production, broadcasting, and live performances. They may also assist with lighting, sound, camera positioning, and film developing. Employment requirements typically include the completion of secondary school, and many positions require college-level coursework in performing arts, broadcasting, photography, or motion picture production, or equivalent on-the-job training.

As a TEER 3 occupation, NOC 53111 is eligible for key Canadian immigration pathways. Candidates with qualified experience in this NOC code can pursue permanent residency through the Express Entry system under the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Additionally, various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) offer targeted streams for skilled technical workers in the cultural and media sectors.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional immigration advice. For official and updated policies, please consult Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Educational overview summarizing this occupation. Always confirm against the official NOC profile and IRCC before relying on it.

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Occupation data: Statistics Canada / ESDC — National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021.