What a Stunt Coordinator Does on Your Production
A Stunt Coordinator is responsible for designing, planning, and safely executing every stunt on your project. That means working closely with your director and DP to translate the script into safe, achievable action, scouting locations for hazards, hiring and managing stunt performers, coordinating with the camera department to capture the action effectively, and overseeing all safety briefings on the day. A good Stunt Coordinator is not just an athlete or a performer. They are a department head who thinks in terms of schedule, budget, insurance, and crew safety all at once.
What to Look for When Hiring a Stunt Coordinator in Baltimore
When reviewing candidates for a Baltimore shoot, prioritize these qualities:
- A strong on-set safety record and familiarity with SAG-AFTRA stunt contracts if your project is union
- Experience coordinating the specific type of action your script requires, whether that is driving sequences, falls, fights, or fire work
- Local knowledge of Baltimore venues, traffic patterns, and permit processes, which saves time and reduces surprises on shoot days
- Clear communication with other department heads, particularly the AD, art department, and locations team
- A network of reliable stunt performers they can call in on short notice, which is common on tight Baltimore productions
Rate Context for Baltimore
Stunt Coordinator rates in Baltimore vary depending on project scale, union status, and the complexity of the work. For non-union independent projects, day rates are typically lower than on studio or network productions, though experienced coordinators will set a floor that reflects their expertise and liability. Union productions follow SAG-AFTRA minimums as a baseline, with negotiated overages common on larger projects. Weekly deals are standard on longer shoots and typically offer better value than booking day to day. When budgeting, factor in prep days, which a Stunt Coordinator needs to rehearse performers, test rigging, and coordinate with other departments before principal photography begins.
Why Baltimore for Film and TV Production
Baltimore has a well-established production community with experienced crew across all departments. The city offers a range of practical locations, from historic rowhouse neighborhoods to industrial waterfronts and open rural areas within a short drive, giving stunt teams varied environments to work with. Maryland has also offered film production incentives that have drawn features and series to the state, which means local stunt talent has grown alongside the broader production industry.
Find Your Stunt Coordinator on NeedaCrew
NeedaCrew is the marketplace built specifically for film and TV production hiring in the US and Canada. Producers can post a project, describe the role and shoot details, and receive responses from verified crew members. No generic job boards, no guesswork about credits or experience.
Ready to staff your Baltimore production? Post your project on NeedaCrew and connect with qualified Stunt Coordinators today.
Are you a Stunt Coordinator based in Baltimore or available for Maryland projects? Join NeedaCrew as a crew member and get in front of producers actively hiring in your area.