Types of Stunt Jobs in Film

In this article, we break down the main types of stunt jobs in film and TV, what each one involves, and how you can start training — especially if you're based in New Zealand or looking to join from overseas.

Please note: these roles and responsibilities may vary depending on the country, production size, and union or guild requirements. This list is not exhaustive but offers a general overview based on industry norms.

What Is a Stunt Performer?

A stunt performer is a trained professional who performs physical action for film and television. Their work helps bring stories to life — safely executing scenes that include fighting, falling, fire burns, horse riding, driving, and more.

At NZ Stunt School, we help aspiring performers develop the skills needed to become industry-ready and progress into a variety of stunt roles.

Types of Stunt Jobs (and What You Need for Each)

Stunt Double

What they do:
A stunt double performs action scenes in place of an actor — matching the actor’s appearance, size, and movement. They work closely with the director and coordinator to ensure continuity and safety.

Requirements:

• Strong stunt foundation (falls, reactions, choreography)

• Physical match with the actor

• Demo reel of clean, camera-ready skills

• Ability to work under pressure and follow direction

Stunt Performer

What they do:
Utility performers appear in non-specific stunt roles — like being thrown in crowd fights or reacting to explosions. They’re used across multiple scenes and must be versatile and consistent.

Requirements:

• Fall and fight technique

• Safety awareness and teamwork

• Endurance for repeated takes

• Ability to follow choreography quickly

Action Extra / Background Fighter

What they do:
Action extras are background performers who take part in physical scenes — like riot crowds, background brawls, or running from danger.

Requirements:

• Basic stunt training (Action Extra Workshop or FFC)

• Good movement control and timing

• Ability to react naturally on camera

Specialised Stunt Roles

High Fall Performer

Performs jumps from rooftops or heights using crash mats or airbags.

Requirements:

• Advanced falling skills

• Air awareness and body control

• High-risk safety training

Wire Work / Aerial Performer

Performs flying or pull-back effects using stunt rigging systems.

Requirements:

• Core strength and control

• Wire awareness and pre-rig training

• Experience with body harnesses

Fire Stunt Performer

Executes body burns with safety gels, suits, and extinguishing protocols.

Requirements:

• Professional fire stunt training

• Calm under pressure

• Fire safety team coordination

Precision/Stunt Driver

Performs car chases, drifts, and crashes on set.

Requirements:

• Performance driving certification

• Vehicle control skills (manual, 4WD, drift)

• Clean license and experience in stunt rehearsals

Horse Stunt Rider

Performs mounted chases, combat, and acting on horseback.

Requirements:

• High-level riding experience

• Horse control under pressure

• Trained with film horses and stunt setups

Weapons and Combat Specialist

Performs choreographed scenes using swords, tactical weapons, or hand-to-hand combat.

Requirements:

• Martial arts or stage combat background

• Fight for camera training

• Excellent timing and reaction skills

Stunt Rigger

Designs and operates rigging systems for wire work, flying, and safety setups.

Requirements:

• Technical rigging knowledge

• Climbing or engineering experience

• Full safety compliance and rehearsals

Water Stunt Performer

Water stunts include jumping into water, underwater fight or rescue scenes, working on boats, or surf/swim-based sequences. These roles are high-risk and require strong water confidence.

Requirements:

• Strong swimming skills and comfort underwater

• Breath control and clear safety awareness

• Experience working with wetsuits, weights, or safety divers

• Must rehearse with the team to prepare for cold, visibility, and gear management

Some productions require diving certification or water safety clearance for underwater scenes.

Stunt Assistant Coordinator

A stunt safety coordinator (or stunt safety officer) is responsible for ensuring all stunt work is carried out under safe conditions. This is a dedicated crew role in larger productions, separate from the stunt coordinator, whose main focus is performance and choreography.

Stunt Coordinator

The Stunt Assistant Coordinator works directly under the Stunt Coordinator, helping manage the day-to-day operations of the stunt department. They act as the bridge between the stunt team, production crew, and other departments (like camera, wardrobe, and safety).

This role is ideal for experienced stunt performers who are starting to move into leadership and planning roles, or who are preparing to become stunt coordinators in the future.

Leads the stunt department, plans action scenes, manages safety, and communicates with directors and production.

Requirements:

• 5–10+ years of experience

• Strong leadership and planning skills

• Deep understanding of safety, casting, and budgeting

How to Start Your Stunt Career in New Zealand

You don’t need to be a pro athlete or gymnast to start. With the right mindset and consistent training, anyone can build their way into stunt work. Here’s how NZSS helps:

• Start with our Fight for Camera Course (in-person or online)

• After FFC, Attend monthly in-person training for progression

• Use our remote training platform if you live outside Auckland

• Get feedback on your video submissions

• Join our agency, NZ Action Talent, after FFC Completion

There are many types of stunt jobs — and many ways to get there. Whether you're dreaming of being a stunt double, rigger, or precision driver, it all starts with smart training, real feedback, and working with the right people.

If you're ready to move, fall, train, and grow — NZ Stunt School is the place to start.