What a Second AD Actually Does on Set
A great Second AD is the engine that keeps your production day running on time. While the First AD manages the floor and the director, the Second AD handles the paperwork and logistics that make everything else possible. On a typical shoot day in Dallas, your Second AD will distribute the daily call sheet, coordinate talent pickups and turnaround times, manage the extras holding area, and act as the communication bridge between the First AD and the rest of the crew and cast.
They also track performer hours for SAG-AFTRA compliance, issue sides, and prepare the advance schedule alongside the First AD. If you are shooting a commercial, branded content piece, or a feature in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, a strong Second AD means your First AD can stay focused on the floor rather than drowning in paperwork.
What to Look for When Hiring a Second AD in Dallas
- Solid experience with call sheet software such as StudioBinder or Movie Magic Scheduling
- Familiarity with SAG-AFTRA daily contracts and turnaround rules if your project is union -
- A calm, organized communication style, because they are constantly fielding calls from multiple departments at once
- Local knowledge of the Dallas-Fort Worth area, including travel times between common locations like Deep Ellum, Frisco, and the Las Colinas studio corridor
- References from recent productions in Texas or comparable markets
Dallas Rates for a Second AD
Day rates for a Second AD in Dallas typically fall somewhere between what you would pay in a mid-tier market and a full union scale. Non-union projects typically see day rates in a range that reflects the crew member's experience level and the scope of the production. Union rates are governed by the applicable DGA or IATSE agreements. When budgeting, factor in a 10-hour guarantee and discuss overtime terms upfront. Dallas has a healthy production community, so competitive but fair rates will attract experienced candidates quickly.
Why Hire Through NeedaCrew
NeedaCrew is a North American marketplace built specifically for film and TV hiring. Every crew member on the platform has a verified profile with credits, skills, and availability clearly listed. You can post your project, review applications, message candidates directly, and confirm your hire, all in one place. There is no chasing down resumes by email or hoping a Facebook group post reaches the right person.
Dallas producers have used NeedaCrew to staff everything from regional commercials to long-form documentary shoots. The platform is free to browse and straightforward to use whether you are a seasoned line producer or coordinating your first larger production.
Ready to find your Second AD? Post your project on NeedaCrew and start receiving applications from qualified Dallas-based crew today.
Are you a Second AD based in Texas? Join NeedaCrew as a crew member and get discovered by producers hiring in Dallas and beyond.