Needs From: VolunteerCNY.org

Volunteer Judge Opportunity Syracuse International Film Festival (SIFF) Unpaid

Approximately 10 Hours per Month

Fully Remote

The Syracuse International Film Festival, Inc. is seeking committed Volunteer Judges to participate in our film submission review process. This role is entirely remote and conducted online through FilmFreeway, allowing volunteers to judge on their own schedule throughout the month.

Overview Volunteer Judges review and score film submissions via FilmFreeway, helping determine official selections and award recipients for SIFF programming.

Platform & Process All judging takes place online through FilmFreewaySIFF will send an official judge invitationJudges will create a free FilmFreeway account using their own email and passwordFilms may be reviewed at any time throughout the month, based on personal availability.

Approximately 10 hours per monthFlexible, self-paced schedule.

No in-person attendance required.

Responsibilities Watch assigned film submissions in fullComplete scorecards and brief evaluations within FilmFreewayMeet monthly review deadlines.

Maintain confidentiality and impartiality.

Qualifications Passion for film and storytellingStrong attention to detail and reliabilityAbility to provide fair and thoughtful evaluationsPrior film or festival experience is welcome but not required.

This is an unpaid volunteer position.

Complimentary invitations to SIFF screenings, panels, and select festival eventsAccess to a wide range of independent films from around the worldNetworking opportunities within the SIFF community.

Volunteer acknowledgment and letters of recommendation upon request.

Syracuse International Film Festival - 2026 Internships

Ongoing throughout 2026 (flexible start dates)

Time Commitment: 10-20 hours per week (increased during festival periods)

Join the Syracuse International Film Festival team and gain hands-on experience in film festival operations, arts administration, and media production while contributing to Central New York's premier celebration of independent cinema.

Positions Available Photography Interns (PRIORITY NEED) Document festival events, screenings, red carpet arrivals, filmmaker portraits, and Q&A sessions. Create compelling visual content for marketing and social media. Requires DSLR/mirrorless camera experience, proficiency in Lightroom/Photoshop, and portfolio of event or portrait photography.

Videography Interns (PRIORITY NEED) Film festival events, create promotional content, record filmmaker interviews and panels, produce highlight reels, and assist with live-streaming. Requires experience with video cameras, editing software (Premiere/Final Cut/DaVinci Resolve), and portfolio/reel demonstrating videography skills. General Festival Interns Support event coordination, marketing, social media, filmmaker hospitality, venue logistics, and administrative tasks. Ideal for those seeking comprehensive film festival management experience. Benefits

Complimentary festival access

Professional development and mentorship

Networking with filmmakers and industry professionals

Portfolio-building opportunitiesLetter of recommendation

Academic credit available

To Apply Submit portfolio/work samples (for photo/video positions) to Volunteers@SyrFilm.com. Applications accepted on rolling basis. Priority given to early applicants.

SIFF is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds.

The Syracuse International Film Festival relies on dedicated volunteers to create a welcoming and professional experience for filmmakers and audiences.

Here are the ongoing volunteer roles available:

Ushers- Greet attendees, guide them to their seats, assist with seating arrangements, and ensure a smooth flow of traffic in and out of screening venues. Ushers help create a warm first impression and maintain order during sold-out screenings.

Concessions- Operate concession stands, handle cash and card transactions, serve food and beverages, maintain cleanliness of concession areas, and ensure adequate stock throughout events. This role keeps audiences fed and happy during the festival.

Ticketing- Check tickets at venue entrances, assist with will-call pickups, help attendees with ticket questions or issues, and direct guests to appropriate screening rooms. Ticketing volunteers are the first point of contact for many festival-goers.

Q&A Assistance- Help facilitate post-screening Q&A sessions with filmmakers and cast members. This includes managing microphones for audience questions, keeping sessions on schedule, and assisting moderators as needed.

Security- Monitor venue entrances and exits, ensure only ticketed guests enter screenings, assist with crowd control during high-attendance events, and help maintain a safe environment for all attendees and equipment.

Panel Support- Assist with panel discussions and industry events by setting up microphones and equipment, managing audience questions, keeping panels on schedule, and supporting panelists with any technical or logistical needs.

Setup and Breakdown- Help prepare venues before screenings and events by arranging seating, setting up signage, preparing registration areas, and other pre-event tasks. After events, assist with breaking down equipment, clearing venues, and restoring spaces to their original condition.

Photographer- Capture candid and staged photos of screenings, red carpet arrivals, Q&A sessions, panels, and festival atmosphere. Document the festival experience for promotional materials, social media, and archival purposes.

Videographer- Record screenings, Q&A sessions, panels, and festival highlights. Create video content for promotional use, social media, and festival archives. May also assist with live-streaming events.

The Syracuse International Film Festival is looking for a REMOTE VOLUNTEER to help us amplify indie cinema!

What we need: 

Advisory Board Roles and Responsibilities:

The advisory board plays a crucial role in curating, presenting, and promoting the festival's programs. The board includes various members who contribute their expertise in different areas such as marketing, security, and more.

Opportunities for Volunteer Diverse Advisory Board Members Planning and Strategy:

Volunteers will help in planning the festival's events and activities. They will contribute to strategic decisions that shape the direction of the festival.

Community Engagement:

Advisory board members will work on initiatives to engage diverse communities within Syracuse. They will help ensure that the festival's programs are inclusive and representative of different cultural backgrounds.

Promotion and Outreach:

Volunteers will assist in promoting the festival through various channels. They will help build partnerships with local organizations and businesses to enhance the festival's reach.

Event Management:

Advisory board members will be involved in managing events during the festival. They will coordinate with other volunteers and staff to ensure the smooth execution of events.

How to Get Involved If you are interested in becoming a volunteer diverse advisory board member for the Syracuse International Film Festival. Engaging with this opportunity allows you to contribute to a vibrant cultural event that has been a staple in Syracuse for over two decades.

By joining the advisory board, you will play a significant role in shaping the future of the festival and ensuring it continues to be a platform for diverse voices in film and media.