What a Stunt Coordinator Actually Does on Your Production
A Stunt Coordinator is responsible for designing, planning, and safely executing every stunt in your project. That means working closely with your director to understand the creative intent, then building a plan that achieves that vision without putting cast or crew at risk. Their job starts long before cameras roll and continues through every stunt day on set.
On a practical level, a great Stunt Coordinator will break down your script for any stunt action, assess location hazards, coordinate with your AD and department heads, source and vet any additional stunt performers, and oversee all rehearsals. They also handle equipment checks, padding and rigging safety, and work directly with your camera team to capture the action cleanly in as few takes as possible. Fewer takes means lower cost and lower risk.
The best coordinators also act as a bridge between the creative and the practical. They will tell you honestly what is achievable on your budget, suggest smart alternatives when a gag is too expensive or too dangerous, and help you plan your day so stunt sequences don't blow your schedule.
What to Look for When Hiring in Denver
Denver has a growing production community and the surrounding region offers diverse locations, from urban environments to mountain terrain, that attract projects requiring a wide range of stunt work. When evaluating candidates, look for:
- A strong reel showing stunt work relevant to your project type, whether that is fights, vehicle work, falls, or specialty gags
- Active membership or affiliation with SAG-AFTRA stunt guidelines, or demonstrated familiarity with industry safety standards
- Experience working with local fire, police, and permitting authorities if your shoot involves exterior or street-level action
- Clear communication and references from directors or producers they have worked with before
- Familiarity with Colorado's varied filming environments, including altitude considerations for physical performers
Rates and Budgeting in Denver
Stunt Coordinator rates vary depending on the scope and complexity of the work. For a straightforward shoot with limited stunt days, day rates are typically lower than a project requiring weeks of prep, multiple performers, and specialized equipment. Union rates follow SAG-AFTRA minimums, while non-union projects typically negotiate directly. Budget separately for any stunt performers, safety equipment, padding, rigging, or specialized vehicles, as those costs sit outside the coordinator's fee. Denver rates are generally in line with mid-market US cities, typically more affordable than Los Angeles or New York but reflective of a competitive and experienced local talent pool.
Find and Book a Stunt Coordinator on NeedaCrew
NeedaCrew is a US and Canada marketplace built specifically for film and TV production hiring. Every crew member on the platform is verified, and you can browse profiles, review credits and reels, and reach out directly, or simply post your project and let qualified Stunt Coordinators come to you.
Producers and production coordinators: post your project on NeedaCrew and start receiving responses from experienced Stunt Coordinators in Denver fast.
Are you a Stunt Coordinator based in Colorado or available to work in Denver? Join NeedaCrew as a crew member and connect with productions actively looking to hire.