Department: Film Archive
Reports to: Senior Film Archivist
Job Type: Seasonal     
Job Classification: Hourly (Non-exempt)                          
Workplace Location: Los Angeles – Pickford
Compensation: $17.87 per hour

Summary/Objective:
The Academy Film Archive (AFA) invites applications for a paid, project-based internship open to current full- or part-time students enrolled in archiving, film studies, library and information studies, museum studies, conservation, or other conservation-related programs.

This internship supports the Archive’s acquisitions and processing activities and offers hands-on experience with the intake, organization, and evaluation of diverse film materials. The intern will assist with early stages of the acquisitions process, such as preliminary collection assessments, inventory work, and preparing materials for long-term storage. The role also includes processing small 16mm and 35mm collections across various genres and formats.

Interns can expect exposure to the day-to-day operations of a major film archive, an introduction to cataloging and collection management systems, and training in proper techniques for handling, identifying, and inspecting film elements. Additional responsibilities may include basic research, supporting staff with donor or depositor intake workflows, and helping ensure new materials are thoughtfully and efficiently integrated into the Archive’s collection.

This is a limited-term internship position beginning in June 2026 through August 2026. Interns typically work four days per week, approximately 32 hours, at the Academy’s Pickford Center in Hollywood. Academic credit may be arranged if the internship meets a student’s institutional requirements.

Essential Functions of the Job:

• Film handling, inspection, and cataloging of small-gauge film.
• Additional research and identification of archival content as needed.
• Create catalogue records and summary reviews of Homes to aid in their accessibility.
• General support to other archive projects as they come up.

Required Competencies:  

• Minimum of one year of study toward a degree in a related field, such as libraries, archives, film studies, museum studies, or other relevant programs.
• A minimum overall GPA of 3.0.
• Exhibit an interest in moving image conservation and preservation.
• Strong writing, verbal, and problem-solving skills.
• Willingness to engage in department activities related to records management, preservation, and collection services.

Required Vaccination: Full vaccination against COVID-19 is required, including any booster vaccinations as applicable. Exception: Medical and religious accommodations approved by the Office of People & Culture.

This internship is part of the Academy’s Gold Rising program, an 8-week internship enhancement program that incorporates learning opportunities, including an intensive two-day orientation, weekly panels, exclusive networking events, workshops, screenings, and mentorship opportunities with Academy members.

CLICK HERE to learn more about Gold Rising.