Overview of the role
A script supervisor is a key figure in live or recorded outside broadcasts and studio-based productions, ensuring the accuracy, timing, and flow of the programme. They act as the central point for script management, timing control, and communication between the director, production team, broadcaster and on-screen talent.
Their role includes formatting scripts and running orders with the producer before record/broadcast, keeping these up to date with real-time amendments, tracking the show's progress against the running order, and delivering cues to ensure smooth transitions.
They work closely with the director and gallery producer to monitor timings and, in live scenarios, manage ad breaks in accordance with channel restrictions. This is coordinated through the gallery team, while maintaining clear communication with the broadcaster to ensure the content is delivered seamlessly within the allocated slot.
Script supervisors must be proficient with the use of multiple stopwatches as timing segments/content is one of the key requirements during both rehearsals and show broadcast/record.
The job requires multi-tasking with sharp organisational skills, the ability to remain calm under pressure and clear, effective communication. Being clear and confident across comms and talkback to relevant team members, which usually includes the director, producer, on screen talent, EVS op, sound, autocue, graphics team, floor manager and broadcaster.
Script supervisors must have an eye for detail, the flexibility to respond to last-minute changes, and the ability to keep the production running on time.
Script supervisors often begin their careers in production, typically as coordinators. On long-running series, they may have the opportunity to train alongside an experienced script supervisor, gaining valuable on-the-job insight.
The National Film and Television School offers an intensive three-month full-time course that provides hands-on experience, expert mentorship, and industry-relevant skills across both film and television. The course also includes strong career support, helping professionals build confidence and thrive in high-pressure production environments.
Core responsibilities
These core responsibilities are provided as a guide and are not exhaustive. The exact responsibilities in a particular job will vary depending on the scale, budget, genre of the production and whether the project is a series or a feature documentary.
- Prepare, check, and circulate the most recent versions of scripts and running orders to the relevant crew and presenters.
- Being proficient with running order and scripting formatting on various TV software systems (eg. iNews/Nucleus/Scriptwriter) as well as Excel and Word.
- Incorporate real-time edits into scripts during rehearsals and live broadcasts.
- Monitor any alterations to the running order, including timing amendments and item changes, and distribute updates to all departments, including new print-outs via the production office when needed.
- Ensure scripts are correctly formatted and clearly marked for easy use in live conditions.
- Archive final scripts via production for compliance, post-production and future reference.
- Collaborate with the director to deliver cues, countdowns, and time checks to the floor and technical teams.
- Work closely with the floor manager to communicate important script or running order changes to presenters.
- Liaise with graphics, VT, and replay operators to ensure accurate timing of pre-recorded inserts and visual elements.
- Communicate changes to ad break timings or live sequences clearly to the relevant crew.
- Attend pre-production meetings to align on technical requirements and editorial aims.
- Track segment durations and the overall programme time in real-time during the broadcast.
- Provide countdowns into and out of breaks, inserts, and live items.
- Alert the director to any over-runs or under-runs and recommend editorial solutions.
- Ensure cues for cameras, graphics, and pre-records are delivered with precision.
- Maintain a detailed log of timings for compliance and post-show documentation.
- Working alongside the director when required to script music performances.
- Able to ‘bar count’ during music performances, identifying the time signature and count each beat until you complete the bar, while communicating this via comms/Talkback to the director and studio team.
- Liaise with the broadcaster in advance of live transmissions/show records to ascertain on air times, slot timings, break restrictions, break timings, overruns/underruns and off-air timings.
- Counting the show on air via, in and out of breaks and off air comms/Talkback during live broadcasts.
- Liaise with the studio producer regarding their requests for timing changes across the show.
- Supply presenters with updated scripts and briefing notes before and during transmission in conjunction with the producer and production team.
- Coordinate with the producer and autocue operator to make sure changes are reflected in the live script output.
- Advise presenters on any script edits or timing changes discreetly if needed.
- Work with the floor manager to ensure presenters are fully briefed ahead of going on air.
- Assist talent in navigating unexpected changes during live segments.
- Give live countdowns to the gallery and presenters during show segments via comms/Talkback.
- Compile an as-broadcast script and running order with accurate timings for the broadcaster’s records.
- Be responsible for logging, reporting and completing all music cues (often during live transmission)
- Join debrief meetings to assess what worked well and identify improvements for future productions if required.
- Record observations about script management and timing to enhance future workflows.
- Work with the production manager to finalise paperwork and compliance submissions.
Skills
Check out role specific skills, transferable skills and attributes for the role of script supervisor.
- Highly organised: manages multiple scripts, running orders, and timing sheets simultaneously.
- Strong communicator: provides clear and accurate information to all relevant departments.
- Timing accuracy: maintains precise timing of programme elements to keep broadcasts on schedule.
- Editorial awareness: understands the content style and pacing needed for the production.
- Adaptable: responds swiftly to changes during live broadcasts.
- Technically capable: familiar with script management tools and broadcast workflows.
- Detail-focused: spots potential issues in scripts or timings before they become on-air problems.
- Adept at bar counting: understand how to bar count for music performances if required.
- Multitasking: handles several responsibilities under time pressure.
- Problem-solving: finds quick and workable solutions to keep the programme running smoothly.
- Collaboration: works well with production, editorial, and technical teams.
- Composed under pressure: stays calm in high-stakes, live environments.
- Discretion: deals sensitively with confidential production details.
- Proactive: anticipates production needs before they arise.
- Dependable: consistently delivers accurate and timely updates.
- Focused: keeps attention sharp during long, complex broadcasts.
- Professional: maintains a high level of accuracy and conduct.
- Supportive: ensures presenters and crew are kept informed and confident.
- Resilient: manages multiple pressures and adapts to evolving circumstances.
- Personable: able to work with a multitude of personalities across a wide-reaching team.