The Second Unit Director manages the Second Unit, and translates the Directors vision into action in front of the camera. As such, the Second Unit Director works with the Director in pre-production to design and plan action sequences such as chases, crashes, fights, falls, burns, etcetera. Together, they decide how to accomplish the illusions as well as where and to what extent stunts will be required.

On the basis of the stunts, the Stunt Coordinator prepares a breakdown of the script detailing the stunts and their estimated costs. The Stunt Coordinator is usually someone who performs stunts himself, and is thus uniquely qualified to judge who is best at doing particular types of stunts. The Stunt Coordinator will determine the number of Stunt Performers needed.

The Second Unit Director is responsible for coverage and camera placement while filming the action sequences and supervising the performance of the stunts on the Second Unit.

The Stunt Coordinator is responsible for assisting the Director in choreographing the action sequences and supervising the performance of the stunts on the First Unit.

The Second Unit Director and Stunt Coordinator must insure that the stunts are performed safely while still obtaining the maximum visual impact. As part of this process the Second Unit Director and Stunt Coordinator will arrange and supervise the rigging of stunt equipment, stunt vehicles, air bags, air rams and other equipment. They also determine what safety precautions (paramedic, standby ambulance, etc.) are necessary and communicate them to the Production Company.

The Second Unit Director and Stunt Coordinator are also responsible for the safety of all performers involved in a scene. If non-stunt performers appear in an action scene, the Second Unit Director and Stunt Coordinator will determine the extent of their involvement in action and, if needed, arrange Stunt Doubles to take their places.

The Second Unit Director and  Stunt Coordinator also share the task of insuring the general safety of the camera people and other crew members during the performance of a stunt by anticipating hazards.