Summary: Becoming a Set Medic in Film & TV

Becoming a Set Medic in Film & TV

A set medic is responsible for providing basic medical care on film and TV productions, primarily handling minor injuries, first aid, and over-the-counter (OTC) medication requests. While it is not the same as emergency medical services (EMS), it can be a well-paying career, especially for those who join the IATSE union, which offers job security and benefits.

1. Job Responsibilities & Work Environment

Set medics provide basic first aid, treat minor injuries, and distribute OTC medications such as pain relievers, sunscreen, and allergy meds. Emergencies are rare, but they may be required to handle sprains, heat exhaustion, or minor workplace injuries.

The work environment varies:

  • Studio sets tend to be slower, with long shifts mostly spent handling minor issues.
  • Location shoots, especially those involving stunts, extreme weather, or remote environments, can be more active. Set medics may need to respond to heat-related issues, injuries from heavy equipment, or hazardous terrain accidents.

Rules for OTC medication distribution depend on location. In Local 480 (New Mexico), medics can supply but not administer medications. Local 80 (Los Angeles) may have different guidelines, so checking with union representatives is advised.

2. Pay, Union Benefits & Career Growth

Union set medics (IATSE) earn higher pay and benefits compared to non-union medics, who often work inconsistent gigs without benefits.

  • Union roles provide better job security and potential six-figure earnings.
  • Some medics transition into Health & Safety Supervisor roles, which have expanded since COVID-19.
  • Non-union work is more of a side hustle, often found through connections and referrals.

3. Certifications & Requirements

  • A state EMT or paramedic license is typically required.
  • In Los Angeles (Local 80), set medics need a California EMT or paramedic certification. Those transferring from another state must go through the California EMS Authority.
  • Some productions require malpractice insurance.

4. Essential Equipment & Logistics

Set medics are usually responsible for bringing their own supplies, which often include:

  • Basic first aid: Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, burn ointment, tweezers.
  • OTC medications: Pain relievers, allergy meds, electrolyte packets.
  • Emergency supplies: EpiPens, Narcan, IV fluids, AEDs.
  • Environmental protection: Sunscreen, bug spray, heat packs, cold packs.

Some medics rent out their own transport equipment (mules, gators) to productions. Medical kits often travel with electric or teamster crews on location shoots.

5. Challenges & Downsides

  • Long shifts (12-15+ hours) are standard.
  • Entitled actors and executives can be difficult to deal with.
  • Industry strikes and slow production cycles can lead to income instability.
  • Much of the job is handing out OTC meds and handling minor complaints.

6. How Much Can an On-Set Medic Earn? (Los Angeles Rates – 2025)

Set medics in Los Angeles (IATSE Local 80) earn different rates depending on the type of production:

  • Basic Agreement (Feature Films & High-End TV)
    • First Aid Person: $47.40/hr or $2,123.52/week
    • Registered Nurse: $48.26/hr or $2,123.52/week
    • Supervisor Nurse: $50.75/hr or $2,232.83/week
  • Pilot & Early-Season TV (Basic Cable, Streaming)
    • First Aid Person: $45.98/hr or $2,059.90/week
    • Registered Nurse: $46.81/hr or $2,059.90/week
    • Supervisor Nurse: $49.23/hr or $2,165.63/week
  • Made-for-TV Movies & Mini-Series
    • First Aid Person: $42.66/hr or $1,706.40/week
  • Reality TV & Competition Shows
    • Reality TV: $40.78/hr or $1,631.00/week
    • Reality Competition Shows: $42.00/hr or $1,680.00/week
  • Commercials
    • First Aid Person: $54.37/hr
  • Low-Budget Productions
    • Rates range from $28.06/hr to $40.44/hr, depending on budget tier.

(Source: IATSE Local 80 First Aid Rate Sheet 2025)

7. How to Get Started in Los Angeles (Local 80 – IATSE)

To join IATSE Local 80, medics typically need to log 30 days on set within a year. The best way to get started is by working non-union gigs to gain experience.

Ways to find initial work:

  • Join the Local 80 Availability List: Most union jobs go to medics who are on the IATSE Local 80 Availability List (Apply Here).
  • Apply with an Outsource Company: Some productions hire medics through external providers such as The Set Medics (Join Here).
  • Network with Active Set Medics: Reach out to those already working in the industry for guidance and referrals. A good resource is Production Hub’s Set Medic Directory (Find Contacts Here).
  • Start with Non-Union or Indie Productions: Reality TV, indie films, and low-budget projects are more accessible for new medics trying to gain set experience.

Set medic jobs are mostly filled through word-of-mouth, so building relationships in the industry is key. Finding a mentor within Local 80 can also help navigate the process.

8. Who Should Consider This Career?

  • EMTs or paramedics looking for a lower-stress alternative to EMS.
  • Those who enjoy film/TV production and want behind-the-scenes access.
  • Medics interested in traveling gigs (e.g., reality shows, adventure series).
  • People looking for side income with long but low-stress shifts.

Bottom Line

Set medic work can be a great-paying, low-stress alternative to traditional EMS, particularly in major film hubs like Los Angeles (Local 80), Atlanta, and NYC. Union membership offers the best pay, benefits, and job security, but breaking in takes connections and at least 30 days of set experience. For those who enjoy the entertainment industry and prefer stability over emergency response work, it can be an ideal career path.

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