Junior production assistant — handles anything nobody else wants: coffee runs, copies, prop grinds. From 'go for this, go for that.' Entry-level on every set.
Gofer
Every set has those unglamorous jobs that need doing—and that's precisely what the gofer is responsible for. The position arose out of practical necessity: while the director is discussing the shot and the camera is rolling, someone needs to be able to run out immediately. "Go for coffee, go for tape, go for that extra reflector"—and from this constant "go for" the term gofer was coined. In German-speaking regions, "Laufbursche" has become established, sometimes also called "Laufassistent" (runner assistant).
Practically speaking, this is an entry-level position that you take as a young production assistant—because everyone starts there. The gofer is the extended arm of the line producer and the production manager. This means: making coffee for the crew (yes, really—and it's more important than you might think), keeping the set clean, transporting props between the prop house and the set, distributing copies of script changes, organizing extras, buying materials that the gaffer or set decorator needs at short notice. In addition, there are unplanned tasks—if an actor suddenly wants a specific drink or the camera assistant needs a special sensor cleaner.
The work is physically and mentally demanding because speed and reliability count. Taking half an hour to procure a small item costs the set real money. Good gofers get noticed—because they anticipate what the next need will be before it's even voiced. They know the shooting location, know where the nearest pharmacy is, and build a network with local suppliers. It's not glamorous, but it's the foundation of every production. Those who later become production managers, unit production managers, or even producers have learned how a set truly functions in this position—not from manuals, but through daily reality. The gofer is also the ideal place to observe: how does the director work with the camera? How does the DoP communicate with their 1st AC? Why does the editor choose certain takes? This perspective from the ground up often offers more insight than any course.
On larger productions, there are several gofers; on smaller sets, the production assistant takes on this role. It's a job that requires stamina, a sense of responsibility, and a genuine interest in film—not just running errands.