Trainee SFX Co-ordinator

JobStart Scheme; Ballymena; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Part time

Job summary

A local training initiative is looking for an SFX Trainee Coordinator in Ballymena to assist with logistics, inventory management, and safety compliance for high-level film and television productions. The role entails working up to 25 hours a week with flexibility in schedule, supporting the SFX department in maintaining operational standards and ensuring safety protocols are followed. Prior experience in production and strong organizational skills are required.

Qualifications

• Exceptional attention to detail and strong organisational abilities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Basic understanding of mechanics, pneumatics, and electronics.
• Current certification in set safety or first aid is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Assist with financial processing and departmental expenses.
• Maintain up-to-date safety documentation.
• Coordinate the SFX team’s schedule and logistics.
• Manage inventory and oversee tool maintenance.

Skills

Organisational Skills

Communication

Technical Aptitude

Flexibility

Problem-Solver

Driving & Logistics

Education

High school GCSE's or equivalent

Degree/qualification in Film Production, Theatre Production, Engineering, or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Production management software

Inventory management software

Job description

IGNITE SFX – Special Effects (SFX) Trainee Coordinator. Support the SFX Supervisor and SFX Department Head in planning, logistics, and execution of practical special effects on set and in the workshop. This role ensures the smooth, safe, and efficient operation of the SFX department, while providing learning in both technical craft and administrative coordination needed for high‑level film and television production.

Responsibilities

• Financial Processing: Assist the SFX Coordinator with tracking, reconciling, and accurately submitting all departmental expenses, including purchase orders (POs), invoices, and petty cash reports.
• Safety Compliance: Maintain up‑to‑date and organised files for all safety documentation, including Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS/SDS) for chemicals, ensuring accessibility to the team.
• Reporting: Prepare and submit accurate SFX daily reports detailing work completed, crew hours, effects used, and any required incident documentation to the Production Office.
• Inventory Management: Log and track all SFX props, rentals, and consumables; conduct regular stock takes to anticipate ordering needs and prevent downtime.
• Permit Coordination: Assist in gathering necessary information and documentation for obtaining shooting permits related to specific effects (e.g., fire, heavy machinery, road closures).
• Scheduling & Communication: Manage the SFX team’s schedule, coordinate travel, and ensure clear and timely communication of call times and location changes. Act as the primary liaison with the Production Office and other key departments.
• Supply Chain Management: Coordinate with external vendors and rental houses for timely delivery, receipt, and return of specialised SFX equipment and materials.
• Transportation: Oversee the organisation of SFX trucks and transport runs, ensuring all equipment is securely packed, manifested, and delivered to set or workshop as required.
• Set Protocol: Assist the SFX Supervisor in ensuring compliance with all set protocols, including managing designated SFX prep areas and securing proprietary or sensitive equipment.
• Workshop Hygiene: Maintain a high standard of cleanliness and organisation within the SFX workshop and storage areas, including sweeping, mopping, trash disposal, and clear access ways.
• Tool Maintenance: Manage the check‑in/check‑out system for departmental tools and ensure they are cleaned, stored correctly, and flagged for repair if damaged.
• Equipment Cleanup: Execute post‑shoot cleaning and breakdown of SFX equipment (e.g., fluid pumps, hoses, atmosphere machines) to keep them ready for the next use.
• Consumables Management: Organise, label, and safely store all consumable materials (paints, oils, fluids, etc.) according to departmental and safety standards.

Skills and Qualifications

• Education: High school GCSE’S or equivalent; a degree/qualification in Film Production, Theatre Production, Engineering, or a related technical field is a plus.
• Experience: Previous experience in an administrative role is desirable.
• Organisational Skills: Exceptional attention to detail, strong organisational abilities, and proven time‑management skills.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to interact professionally with all levels of production personnel.
• Technical Aptitude: A basic understanding of or strong interest in mechanics, pneumatics, engineering, and electronics.
• Software Proficiency: Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word) or Google Workspace; experience with production management software is a bonus.
• Commitment to Safety: Demonstrate a serious commitment to set safety protocols and procedures.
• Flexibility: Ability to work long hours and adapt to a constantly changing production schedule and environment.
• Problem‑Solver: Resourceful and calm under pressure when technical or logistical issues arise.
• Production Experience: Prior experience as a Set Production Assistant (PA) or department coordinator in a film, television, or large‑scale live events environment.
• Safety Certification: Current certification or formal training in set safety, first aid, or occupational health and safety (e.g., IOSH or OSHA certifications).
• Technical Familiarity: Basic working knowledge of practical SFX equipment (e.g., wind machines, smoke generators, rain rigs) or general mechanical/electrical principles.
• Inventory Software: Experience using dedicated inventory management software or tracking systems beyond basic spreadsheets.
• Driving & Logistics: A clean, valid driver’s license (or relevant class license) and proven experience driving production vehicles (vans, trucks).
• Budget Software: Familiarity with accounting or budgeting software used in production (e.g., Movie Magic Budgeting, general ledger systems).
• Trades Experience: Background in practical trades such as welding, carpentry, basic electrical work, or plumbing, demonstrating hands‑on aptitude.
• Proprietary Knowledge: Knowledge of common vendors, suppliers, and rental houses specific to the SFX industry in the local region.
• Foreign Language: Proficiency in a second language, which may be beneficial for international shoots or diverse crews.
• Proactivity: A positive, can‑do attitude with the ability to anticipate needs and take initiative without being asked.

Job Details

Standard Hours: up to 25 hours per week. Flexible/Reduced Hours may be approved by a Work Coach. Additional Hours may be offered depending on availability (discuss with employer). Location: Ballymena, County Antrim. Contract Type: Temporary; Weekly hours: 25. Published date: 27/11/2025.

Application Information

JOBSTART is open to working‑age benefit claimants deemed eligible by a Work Coach. If you are on Universal Credit, contact your Work Coach via your Journal. If you are in receipt of any other working‑age benefit, contact your local Jobs & Benefits Office on 0800 001 5782.

Area: Derry or Londonderry. Closing date: 6 Jan 2026.