Fight Coordinator

Impact: Direct and Visual

Fight Coordinators specialize in designing, planning, and executing fight sequences for film, TV, and stage productions. They choreograph combat scenes, ranging from hand-to-hand combat to weapon-based skirmishes, ensuring realism, storytelling, and above all, the safety of actors and stunt performers. They work closely with directors, stunt coordinators, and other departments to integrate fight sequences seamlessly into the overall production, often adapting choreography to skill levels and set constraints. This role requires advanced knowledge of combat techniques, martial arts, choreography, and a deep understanding of camera angles and film editing for visual impact.

What the day looks like

People interaction: Extensive
Team vs solo: Team
Client facing: Always
Impact visibility: High
Travel: Frequent
Schedule flexibility: Rigid
Remote work: On-site Only
Typical work hours: 10-14 hours per day
Stress level: High

At a glance

Median salary: $50,890
Entry-level: $27,000
Senior: $79,000
Growth by 2033: Average
Demand: Stable
Freelance potential: High
Salary growth potential: Moderate
Typical student debt: $0

Skills you'll use

Hard skills

Stage Combat
Martial Arts
Choreography
Safety Protocols
Film Editing Knowledge

Soft skills

Communication
Leadership
Problem-solving
Creativity
Attention to detail

Technical complexity: High

How to get there

Minimum education: High School Diploma or equivalent, extensive specialized training in martial arts, stage combat, and stunt performance
Licensing: No
Years to mid-career: 7
Years to senior: 15
Career switching: Moderate

Where this career leads

How people arrive here

Where you can go from here

Typical progression

Stunt Performer
Fight Coordinator
Stunt Coordinator

Future outlook

Automation probability: Low
AI disruption risk: Low
Demand trend: Stable

How people feel about it

Overall satisfaction: 4/10
Meaning: 4/10
Work-life balance: 3/10
Prestige: 7.5/10
Social perception: Very High