Location Manager
Find the perfect backdrop, manage logistics, and keep productions on schedule.
What is a Location Manager?
Location managers are responsible for finding and securing locations for film and television shoots. They negotiate contracts, obtain permits, manage location budgets, and ensure the location meets the production's needs while adhering to safety regulations.
A location manager spends the day scheduling funerals, arranging venues, and coordinating staff while handling continuous phone and face-to-face contact with families, medical offices, and vendors. You obtain signatures on death certificates, sell service and merchandise options, and ensure records are completed. Between services you monitor operations, assign attendants, and manage inventory so each service runs on time and in compliance.
The hats you wear
The Scout
Searching tirelessly for locations that meet the director's vision, considering aesthetics, practicality, and budget constraints, often traveling extensively.
30% of workThe Negotiator
Securing location agreements with property owners, negotiating fees, and ensuring all legal requirements are met, protecting the production's interests.
25% of workThe Logistical Planner
Coordinating all logistical aspects of filming on location, including permits, parking, catering, and security, ensuring a smooth operation.
20% of workThe Budget Guardian
Managing the location budget, tracking expenses, and finding cost-effective solutions without compromising the production's quality or vision, always mindful of resources.
15% of workThe Problem Solver
Addressing unexpected challenges that arise on location, such as weather delays, access issues, or equipment malfunctions, keeping the production on track.
10% of workWhat you'll actually do
The real tasks of this role, drawn from worker surveys, job ads, and reference sources. The badge shows how many independent sources named each — the more agree, the more central it is.
Sources: worker surveys (O*NET) · real job ads · Wikipedia · the EU skills database.
The path to get there
🇮🇳 India
India paths usually start with a diploma or bachelor degree focused on film & media work. Early roles build hands-on credibility through projects, internships, or lab rotations. Advanced roles add masters or doctoral study, with stronger emphasis on documentation and research methods. Clear evidence of outcomes improves hiring and progression.
🇺🇸 United States
US paths commonly run through four-year degrees that build core foundations in film & media work. Research tracks rely on graduate study and publications, while applied tracks focus on internships and measurable project outcomes. Professional networking and clear portfolios strongly influence hiring results.
🇪🇺 Europe
Europe paths often include a three-year bachelor and two-year master focused on film & media work. Research roles emphasize consortium projects and peer review, while industry roles value standards compliance and structured reporting. Cross-country mobility is common, so credential portability matters.
Education timeline
High School
2-4 yearsBuild foundations in science, math, and communication while exploring Film & Media topics. Early projects that involve measurement, observation, and reporting create habits that support later specialization.
Undergraduate
3-4 yearsStudy core theory and applied methods connected to film & media work. Build project evidence, internships, and documented outcomes that show readiness for real work.
Graduate
1-6 yearsSpecialize in advanced topics within Film & Media, develop deep technical expertise, and publish or document results. Advanced roles often require this depth.
Professional
1-3 yearsGain certifications, domain compliance knowledge, and repeatable execution skills. Professional training strengthens reliability and improves long-term growth.
What the days look like
Career growth & salary
Essential skills
The competencies that matter most — tap any to see it in the Skills Glossary.
What employers expect
Pulled from real job postings — what gets you in the door versus what a senior version of this role is held to.
To get started
- Coordinate funeral services effectively
- Manage funeral home resources
- Ensure compliance with laws
- Schedule funerals and cremations
- Consult with families
To grow senior
- Oversee funeral home operations
- Manage staff and resources
- Ensure legal compliance
- Develop funeral service plans
- Handle client relations
Human truths & trade-offs
Money
Location managers can earn a decent living, but pay varies widely based on experience, budget of the production, and union status. Entry-level positions may start relatively low, but experienced location managers on large-budget films can command impressive salaries.
Stability
Job security can fluctuate as work is project-based. Building a strong network and reputation is crucial for consistent work. Demand can also be affected by the overall health of the film industry in a particular region.
Work-Life Balance
The job often involves long and irregular hours, including weekends and travel. Balancing personal life with the demands of location scouting and on-set responsibilities can be challenging.
Identity
Being a location manager can shape your identity by fostering resourcefulness, problem-solving skills, and an appreciation for diverse environments. It offers opportunities to explore new places and contribute creatively to storytelling.
Your toolkit for the journey
The essential terms to master. Tap a card to flip it.
Tools & software
Do you know the work?
Six real scenarios from the day-to-day. Take a hint if you want a nudge — every answer teaches why, straight from surveyed and cited evidence.
Is this career for you?
Six quick gut-checks — answer honestly. There are no wrong answers, only a clearer picture of fit.
Quick pulse
One tap each — cast your vote and see the split.
Frequently asked questions
The summary
✅ This career is for you if…
- People who value clarity and evidence
- Those who enjoy structured workflows
- Learners who build depth over time
⚠️ Maybe not for you if…
- People who dislike documentation
- Those who avoid collaboration
- Roles requiring constant variety without structure
Related careers
Built on public evidence: O*NET®, ESCO, Wikipedia, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, ILOSTAT · All sources & licenses