How Much Do Jobbing Actors Get Paid


Jobbing actors, who perform in smaller productions and commercials, typically earn less than those in leading roles. Their salaries vary based on factors such as their experience, the size of the production, and the geographical location of the job. For example, in the United States, jobbing actors in the Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA) receive a minimum of $195 per day for work on a commercial and $858 per day for work on a television show. In the United Kingdom, actors may earn as little as £50 per performance in a fringe theatre production.

Hourly Rates for Jobbing Actors

Jobbing actors, also known as working actors, are performers who are not employed by a specific company or production on a permanent basis. They typically work on a project-by-project basis, and their earnings can vary depending on the type of work they do, their experience, and the budget of the production.

According to the Actors’ Equity Association (AEA), the minimum hourly wage for jobbing actors in the United States is $23.52. This rate applies to all work performed under an AEA contract, including rehearsals, performances, and travel.

In addition to the minimum wage, jobbing actors may also be eligible for additional compensation, such as overtime pay, travel expenses, and per diems. These benefits can vary depending on the terms of the AEA contract.

Hourly Rates for Jobbing Actors

  • AEA Minimum Hourly Wage: $23.52
  • Overtime Pay: Time and a half for hours worked over 8 in a day or 40 in a week
  • Travel Expenses: Reimbursement for transportation, lodging, and meals
  • Per Diems: Daily allowance for food and incidentals

Table of Hourly Rates for Jobbing Actors

Job Type Hourly Rate
AEA Minimum Wage $23.52
Overtime Pay Time and a half
Travel Expenses Reimbursement
Per Diems Daily allowance

Factors Influencing Jobbing Actor Salaries

The amount of money a jobbing actor gets paid can vary depending on a number of factors:

  • Experience: Actors with more experience are typically paid more than those with less experience.
  • Talent: Actors who are considered to be more talented are typically paid more than those who are less talented.
  • Union status: Actors who are members of a union are typically paid more than those who are not.
  • Location: Actors who work in large cities are typically paid more than those who work in small towns.
  • Type of work: Actors who work in film and television are typically paid more than those who work in theater.
  • Budget: The budget of the production can also affect how much actors are paid.

Below is table that provides a range of salaries for jobbing actors in different cities.

City Salary Range
New York City $1,000-$5,000 per day
Los Angeles $500-$2,500 per day
Chicago $300-$1,500 per day

Income Variability

As a jobbing actor, your income can vary significantly. This is because you’re not guaranteed a steady stream of work. You may have periods where you’re working consistently, followed by periods where you’re struggling to find auditions.

There are a number of factors that can affect your income as a jobbing actor. These include:

  • Your experience
  • Your skills
  • Your location
  • The type of work you’re seeking

Jobbing Acting

Jobbing actors are actors who work on a project-by-project basis. They may be hired for a day, a week, or even a few months. Jobbing actors typically earn less than actors who have full-time contracts.

There are a number of benefits to jobbing acting. For example, you have the flexibility to choose your own projects, and you can work on a variety of different productions.

However, there are also some challenges to jobbing acting. For example, you may have to travel for work, and you may have to work long hours.

If you’re considering a career as a jobbing actor, it’s important to be aware of the challenges and rewards involved. You should also be prepared for the fact that your income may vary.

Here are some tips for jobbing actors:

  • Build a strong network of contacts.
  • Keep your skills up-to-date.
  • Be prepared to travel for work.
  • Be willing to work long hours.
  • Manage your finances carefully.

Rating Earnings
Union Scale $1,869 per week
Non-Union Scale $125-$250 per day

Tips to Maximize Earnings for Jobbing Actors

Jobbing actors, who typically perform in supporting roles or as extras, face unique challenges in maximizing their earnings. Here are some strategies:

  • Develop a specialized skill set:
    • Train in combat skills, martial arts, or equestrianism
    • Learn specialized dialects or accents
    • Master technical skills like puppeteering or stilt-walking
  • Build your network and relationships
  • Create an impressive portfolio
  • Be flexible and willing to take on diverse roles
  • Consider joining actors’ unions or guilds
  • Explore alternative income streams through teaching, coaching, or workshops
  • Negotiate for better rates and benefits
  • Set realistic financial goals

Earnings Table

The table below provides an approximate range of earnings for jobbing actors, based on factors such as experience, skill level, and market demand:

Experience Level Hourly Rate Daily Rate Weekly Rate Monthly Rate
Beginner $20 – $50 $150 – $250 $750 – $1,250 $2,500 – $5,000
Intermediate $40 – $75 $200 – $375 $1,000 – $1,875 $3,500 – $6,500
Experienced $60 – $120 $275 – $600 $1,375 – $3,000 $4,500 – $9,500

It’s important to note that these are just estimates, and actual earnings may vary depending on a variety of factors. Additionally, it’s uncommon for jobbing actors to work full-time hours, so it’s essential to supplement acting income with other sources.

Well, there you have it, folks! Whether you’re just starting out in the wild world of acting or you’re a seasoned pro looking to up your game, understanding the ins and outs of jobbing actor salaries is crucial. Keep in mind that these figures can vary based on location, experience, and union status. So, before you sign on the dotted line for your next gig, make sure you’ve done your research and know what you’re worth. Thanks for tuning in, folks! Be sure to visit again soon for more juicy tidbits on the world of acting and entertainment.