What Is an Associate Producer and What Do They Do?

The number of producers that exist in the industry is overwhelming. What do they all mean? We won’t overwhelm you here. Let’s take it slow. This article tackles two basic questions, “what is an associate producer?” and “what does an associate producer do?” Let’s get into it.

Associate Producer Job Description

What does an associate producer do?

To understand what an associate producer is, is to understand what they do on a daily basis. So let’s jump right in.

ASSOCIATE PRODUCER DESCRIPTION

What is an associate producer?

An associate producer is a below-the-line producer that works under the supervision of another producer. They are often referred to as the ‘AP.’ They assist another producer in putting a film or television episode together. Strong writing and editing skills are necessary.

WHAT DOES AN ASSOCIATE PRODUCER DO?

Writing, editing, organizing scripts for TV, running the teleprompter in newscasts, or assisting the editor by making shot selections
On a TV series, AP's duties may include pitching story ideas, revising copy, and helping guide the editorial content of the series.
Assist with promotions and handle bookings for TV

Again, strong writing and editing skills are a must if you want to be an AP. They makes editorial decisions when assisting the video editor in shot selection - AP's may be asked to write or rewrite copy to match the shot. Additional include pitching story ideas, overall guidance of the editorial content, and cueing up tapes.

It’s considered “below-the-line” because they’re sort on the bottom of the totem pole - they don’t make any final decisions, they assist those that do. But becoming an AP is a great role for the writer interested in producing, and it’s a great jumping off point for your career.

If you want to learn more about other producers, check out our next article on line producers.

Up Next

What is a Line Producer?

If you want to become a producer, or rise in the ranks as a producer, knowing the differences between them is essential. Associate producers perform a ton of editorial tasks, but who is the line producer? Find out in our next article.