What a Second AD Actually Does on Set
The Second AD is the engine room of your set. While the First AD manages the floor and keeps the director on track, the Second AD handles everything that keeps the machine running behind the scenes. On a typical shoot day, your 2nd AD is responsible for generating call sheets, coordinating department heads on crew calls, managing background talent, and making sure every department has what they need before the camera rolls.
A strong Second AD is also your early warning system. They track talent turnaround times, flag potential overtime before it hits, and communicate constantly between the production office and the set. On location shoots in Savannah, where you may be juggling historic district permits, exterior weather windows, and a mix of local and traveling crew, that coordination ability is especially valuable.
What to Look for When Hiring a Second AD in Savannah
- Solid call sheet experience, including digital tools like Movie Magic or StudioBinder
- Background coordination experience if your project involves extras or atmosphere
- Familiarity with Georgia labor practices and any applicable union agreements
- Clear communication skills, because the 2nd AD is the hub between departments
- References from recent projects, ideally local or regional productions
- Ability to start prep work before principal photography begins
Savannah Rates: What to Expect
Savannah sits in a competitive but accessible market for crew. Second ADs working on non-union independent features and branded content typically earn day rates that reflect regional Southeast market pricing, which generally runs lower than Los Angeles or New York but has been climbing steadily as Georgia production volume grows. For union or larger-budget projects covered by DGA agreements, scale rates apply and your UPM or line producer will guide those negotiations. For non-union work, rates vary based on project budget, shoot length, and the individual's experience level. Building in a fair prep day rate matters too, since a good 2nd AD earns their keep before the shoot even starts.
How NeedaCrew Helps You Find One Fast
NeedaCrew is a US and Canada marketplace built specifically for film and TV production hiring. Every crew member on the platform has a verified profile with credits, skills, and availability. You can post your project, specify your dates and budget, and hear back from qualified local candidates without sorting through unvetted cold contacts.
Whether you need someone for a one-day commercial, a multi-week feature, or a streaming pilot shooting on location in Savannah, the process is the same: post your project, review applicants, and hire with confidence.
Post your project on NeedaCrew and find a Second AD in Savannah today.
Are you a Second AD based in Savannah or available for Georgia productions? Join NeedaCrew as a crew member and get found by producers hiring right now.