Production Assistant - West Elm

Williams-Sonoma; New York (NY); On-site; USD 50,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Photo Production Assistant to join their dynamic team in Brooklyn. This role is crucial for the efficient execution of high-volume e-commerce photography, requiring a blend of creativity and organization. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced environment, showcasing a passion for photography and design while ensuring all merchandise is handled with care. With opportunities for growth and a supportive culture, this position offers a chance to be part of a collaborative team dedicated to excellence in visual storytelling. If you’re ready to make an impact in a vibrant studio setting, this role is for you.

Benefits

Generous discount on all WSI brands

401(k) plan

Paid vacations and holidays

Health benefits including dental and vision

Tax-free commuter benefits

Wellness program

Qualifications

• 1+ year(s) photo studio/PA or warehouse experience required.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Serve as on-set production leader, liaising between teams.
• Monitor set progress and manage logistics for photo shoots.

Skills

Photography

Design

Strong Communication Skills

Organizational Skills

Ability to Lift 50 Pounds

Education

Degree in Photography, Video, or Merchandising

Comparable Production Experience

Tools

Microsoft Suite

Airtable

Job description

About the Role

The Photo Production Assistant (PA) works in our Industry City Brooklyn Photo Studio and is responsible for the following functions: pre-production and on-set photo production for fast-paced and high volume e-commerce asset creation. As a Production Assistant, you will be a key player in the photo team’s success and support with the safe handling of merchandise samples for photo readiness. This includes moving heavy furniture and supporting general studio space upkeep such as sweeping, cleaning and organizing.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the on-set production leader for one or more set/teams each day.
• Liaison between on set teams, Merchandisers, Creative Art Directors and Producers.
• Monitor and report with clarity and authority on each set’s progress throughout the shoot.
• Administer software and tools for samples and production tracking (Airtable).
• Participate in daily/weekly reviews and project kickoffs with Creative, Production, Set Build teams to review details of merchandise, prop, set needs and logistics.
• Partner closely with samples team to ensure all correct product arrives to studio and is properly accounted.
• Load and unload merchandise, props, and equipment between warehouse and studio/photo location.
• Sort, stage, and track items while in possession of the photo studio both on and off set.
• Ensure all merchandise and props are returned with proper labeling, wrapping and in good condition.
• Maintain a professional demeanor with the photo team, merchants, and homeowners.
• Perform general studio support, assistance, and upkeep.
• Can support location shoots and occasional in-state or out-of-state travel.
• Requires extended periods of active moving and standing (up to 8+ hours).

Criteria

• You have a passion for photography, design, interiors and art with a strong work ethic and ability to think creatively. Key attributes include love for collaboration, strong communication skills and sense of ownership and urgency in delivering quality in all projects. To be successful here you'll also have a flexible personality to be able to thrive in the fast paced, reactive environment. Adept and agile in an evolving landscape of content creation.
• Degree in photography, video, merchandising or related field; or comparable production experience.
• 1+ year(s) photo studio/PA or warehouse experience.
• Proven attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Sense of urgency and ability to support multiple projects/sets simultaneously with a service mindset.
• Proficient in the Microsoft suite and Airtable a plus.
• Ability to prioritize and multi-task.
• Must be able to lift and move merchandise up to 50 pounds.
• Familiar with brands and merchandise preferred.
• Ability to perform work onsite in the photo studio (Brooklyn, New York) and on location if needed.
• This role requires being onsite in the Industry City office.

Our Culture & Values

We believe that taking care of our people is vital to our success and we strive to offer equitable and transparent practices for all. We prioritize connection, growth, and wellbeing.

People First

Putting People First means investing in overall well-being and opportunities to grow and advance within the organization. Depending on the position and location, here are a few highlights of what benefits may be available:

• A generous discount on all WSI brands.
• A 401(k) plan and other investment opportunities.
• Paid vacations, holidays, and time off to volunteer.
• Health benefits, dental and vision insurance, including same-sex domestic partner benefits.
• Tax-free commuter benefits.
• A wellness program that supports your physical, financial and emotional health.

Continued Learning

• In-person and online learning opportunities through WSI University.
• Cross-brand and cross-function career opportunities.
• Resources for self-development.
• Advisor (Mentor) program.
• Career development workshops, learning programs, and speaker series.

WSI will not now or in the future commence an immigration case or "sponsor" an individual for this position (for example, H-1B or other employment-based immigration).

This role is not eligible for relocation assistance.

The expected starting pay range for this position is $50,000 - $55,000. Applicable pay ranges may differ across markets. Actual pay will be determined based on experience and other job-related factors permitted by law. In addition to competitive pay, compensation may include a variety of other components like benefits, paid time off, merit, and bonus opportunities.