Stunt coordinator

What does a Stunt Coordinator do? – duties and work environment

A Stunt Coordinator is responsible for planning, organizing, and leading stunt sequences in film, TV, and stage productions. The work involves designing safe and creative stunt scenes, recruiting and instructing stunt teams, and ensuring all activities follow current safety regulations. The work environment is highly varied and can include indoor studio scenes as well as outdoor locations under challenging weather conditions. Close collaboration with directors, producers, and technical staff is often required to seamlessly integrate stunt elements into the production. The profession can involve irregular working hours and be physically demanding, with a strong focus on risk management and safety.

Salary development over time

The salary for a Stunt Coordinator has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 35,100 SEK per month, increasing to 35 500 SEK in 2023. In the most recent year, 2024, the average salary has reached 38 600 SEK, representing an increase of about 10% compared to 2022. This trend reflects a rising demand for qualified stunt and safety personnel, as well as increased focus on work environment and specialized skills in the industry. Salary development may also be influenced by more productions hiring professional stunt coordinators to minimize risks and improve quality. Despite this, salary ranges remain relatively broad, depending on experience, education, and employment type.

Stunt Coordinator salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 38 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (female): 33,600 SEK
• Lowest salary (male): 36,100 SEK
• Highest salary (female): 40,300 SEK
• Highest salary (male): 43,700 SEK
• Average hourly wage: 232 SEK
• Women earn: 96% of what men do (37 300 SEK/month vs 38 800 SEK/month)
• Regional differences: Not available

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a Stunt Coordinator is often practical and based on a combination of stunt experience and supplementary education in safety and leadership. Formal education is uncommon, but relevant courses and certifications in stunt techniques, first aid, and risk management are highly valued. The industry also values documented practice and references from productions where safety and coordination have been central.

• Post-secondary education: Usually shorter than 3 years; focuses on performing arts, sports, or technology
• Certifications: Courses in stunt techniques, safety, and first aid
• Practical experience: As a stunt performer or assistant coordinator
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition and experience in risky environments
• Tips: Build a network within the film and stage industry to secure internships and references

Common benefits and compensations

Stunt Coordinators are often offered benefits such as additional pay for unsocial hours, travel allowances, and sometimes special insurance solutions due to the risky nature of the profession. Many employers also provide wellness contributions, access to gyms, and further training in safety and leadership. Project-based employment may include one-time allowances for particularly demanding or dangerous tasks.

Competition and challenges

Competition for roles as a Stunt Coordinator is high, especially in larger productions where experience and reputation carry significant weight. Many positions are filled through networks and recommendations, making it difficult for newcomers to establish themselves. Safety requirements have increased, necessitating continuous updating of skills in both technology and work environment. The physical demands and risk of injury pose additional challenges, as does the project-based and uncertain job market. However, the profession offers great opportunities for variation and development for those dedicated and motivated.

Tips for aspiring Stunt Coordinators

To succeed as a Stunt Coordinator, it’s beneficial to combine technical knowledge with a strong sense of safety and leadership. The first step is gaining practical experience as a stunt performer to understand the risks and possibilities of the profession. Creativity is important for designing safe and spectacular stunt sequences suitable for different productions. Communication skills are crucial for instructing and coordinating the team, while stress resilience helps you stay calm in unexpected situations. Building a broad network within the film and stage industry increases chances of assignments, and flexibility is needed to handle irregular hours and diverse environments. Finally, ongoing training is essential to stay updated on new techniques and safety standards.

Key facts about a Stunt Coordinator

• Average salary: 38 600 SEK/month
• Salary range: 33,600–43,700 SEK/month
• Education level: Post-secondary education, shorter than 3 years
• Gender salary gap: Women earn 96% of what men do
• Typical employment type: Project-based

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a Stunt Coordinator, opportunities open to advance to leading roles such as chief coordinator, safety manager, or even producer of stunt productions. Some choose to specialize in areas like car stunts or fight choreography, while others move into training or consultancy in safety. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, there is no specific forecast for the profession, but within the light, sound, and stage technology group, 620 job openings are reported, indicating some demand for related skills. Future prospects are influenced by industry trends and technological developments, and strong networks and specialized skills improve long-term career opportunities.

Frequently asked questions about a Stunt Coordinator

• What is the average salary of a Stunt Coordinator?
  - The average salary is 38 600 SEK per month.
• What is the salary range for a Stunt Coordinator?
  - The salary range is between 33,600 SEK and 43,700 SEK per month depending on experience and employment type.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 96% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What education is required to become a Stunt Coordinator?
  - Post-secondary education in performing arts, technology, or sports, along with certifications in stunt work and safety, is recommended.
• What is the job market outlook for a Stunt Coordinator?
  - There is no exact forecast, but the profession reports 620 available jobs, indicating some demand.
• What qualities are important for success?
  - Leadership, safety awareness, creativity, and stress resilience are crucial qualities.
• What types of work environments are common?
  - Work occurs in various environments, from film sets and theater stages to outdoor locations and specially built arenas.