Casting Director Job Description Template
Use this Casting Director job description template to advertise the open roles for free using Longlist.io. You can use this template as a starting point, modify the requirements according the needs of your organization or the client you are hiring for.
Job Brief
We are looking for a Casting Director to organize castings and select actors for film or stage. Your job will determine the final success of the production as the right person should be in the right role.
We expect candidates to be very knowledgeable of acting principles and the unique requirements of film and theater. An instinct to discern talent and determine the best fit for each role, no matter how small, is the most important success factor in this job.
The goal is to ensure productions will have the most appropriate team of actors for every role.
Responsibilities
- Study script to understand all speaking roles
- Collaborate with directors and producers to determine a role’s requirements (physical characteristics, experience etc.)
- Prepare casting budget with the help of accountants
- Contact agents directly to source ideal actors
- Review resumes and call suitable actors
- Organize auditions and readings
- Interview actors and determine their suitability for the part
- Determine actor’s fees
- Negotiate contracts to achieve mutual satisfaction
- Supervise other staff (e.g. casting assistants)
Requirements
- Proven experience as casting director
- Current knowledge of available acting talent
- Ability to maintain knowledge of industry trends
- Instinct to recognize talent
- Excellent organizational and leadership skills
- Outstanding communication and interpersonal ability
- Great negotiation skills
- A team player
- High school diploma; further education in film, arts or relevant field is a plus
What does Casting Director do?
A Casting Director is responsible for finding and selecting actors for roles in television, film, and theater productions. Here's an overview of what a Casting Director does on a day-to-day basis:
- Script analysis: The Casting Director reads through scripts to understand the story, characters, and their requirements. They analyze the breakdown of roles in the production.
- Casting process: The Casting Director works closely with the production team to determine the casting needs and requirements. They collaborate with the director, producers, and writers to understand their vision for the characters.
- Audition coordination: The Casting Director manages the audition process, including scheduling auditions, coordinating with actors' agents, and organizing casting calls. They may also handle the logistics of audition venues and technology setup for virtual auditions.
- Audition review: The Casting Director watches auditions and evaluates actors' performances based on suitability for specific roles. They take notes, discuss potential talent with the production team, and shortlist actors for callbacks.
- Actor selection: Based on callbacks and discussions with the production team, the Casting Director helps in finalizing the actors for each role. They may negotiate contracts and deal with the legal aspects of hiring actors.
- Talent scouting: The Casting Director actively seeks out new talent by attending theater performances, film festivals, and talent showcases. They may also review showreels and headshots submitted by aspiring actors.
- Networking: Establishing and maintaining relationships with agents, talent agencies, and actors is an essential part of a Casting Director's job. They attend industry events, workshops, and casting conferences to stay updated on industry trends and build connections.
- Collaborations: Throughout the casting process, the Casting Director collaborates closely with the director, producers, and other production team members to ensure that the selected actors are the best fit for the characters and the overall project.
- Casting database management: The Casting Director maintains a database of actors, including their headshots, resumes, and contact information. They keep the database organized and up-to-date, making it easier to search for suitable talent for future projects.
- Administrative tasks: The Casting Director handles administrative duties like budgeting, scheduling, and paperwork related to casting activities. They may also oversee a team of casting assistants or associates, delegating tasks and providing guidance as needed.
It's worth noting that the specific responsibilities of a Casting Director may vary depending on the production and the scale of the project.