Torchora
Back to Home

Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a TV Coordinator

💰 $ - $

MediaProductionBroadcastingCoordinationTelevision

🎯 Role Definition

A TV Coordinator, often known as a Production Coordinator, is the central administrative and organizational hub of a television production. This role serves as the primary logistical point of contact, ensuring the seamless flow of information and resources between the production office, the set, and external vendors. You're the essential linchpin who keeps the creative and logistical gears of a show turning smoothly, from pre-production through to wrap. A successful TV Coordinator anticipates needs, solves problems before they escalate, and maintains a calm, professional demeanor in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment. This position is fundamental to keeping a production on schedule, within budget, and efficiently run.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Production Assistant (PA)
  • Office Assistant / Runner
  • Media or Production Intern

Advancement To:

  • Production Manager
  • Associate Producer
  • Post-Production Supervisor

Lateral Moves:

  • Script Coordinator
  • Casting Coordinator
  • Art Department Coordinator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Act as the primary liaison between the production office, on-set crew, post-production teams, and corporate departments to ensure clear and consistent communication.
  • Create, manage, and distribute essential production documents, including call sheets, production reports, contact lists, and shooting schedules with meticulous attention to detail.
  • Coordinate all travel arrangements, including flights, ground transportation, and accommodations for cast, crew, and key production personnel.
  • Manage the procurement, rental, and tracking of all production equipment, from cameras and lighting to walkie-talkies and office supplies.
  • Oversee the onboarding process for new crew members, including the collection and processing of start paperwork, NDAs, and other essential HR documents.
  • Process and track purchase orders, invoices, and expense reports, ensuring all production spending is accurately coded and reconciled against the budget.
  • Liaise with various vendors and suppliers to negotiate rates, schedule deliveries, and resolve any service-related issues promptly.
  • Maintain and organize the production's digital and physical filing systems, ensuring all documents are current and easily accessible.
  • Secure and manage necessary permits, releases (location, talent, material), and certificates of insurance (COIs) required for shooting.
  • Provide direct administrative support to Producers and Production Managers, including managing calendars, scheduling meetings, and preparing materials.
  • Facilitate the smooth operation of the production office by managing supplies, coordinating office setup and breakdown, and handling incoming communications.
  • Track and manage deliverables for post-production, ensuring all necessary media, graphics, and legal clearances are provided to the post team on schedule.
  • Prepare and distribute sides (daily script pages) for cast and crew, ensuring the correct versions are always available.
  • Coordinate catering and craft services for the set and production office, managing dietary restrictions and logistical requirements.
  • Assist in wrapping out the production, which includes returning all rented equipment, archiving documents, and closing out vendor accounts.
  • Manage the inventory and distribution of production-related assets like scripts, schedules, and branded merchandise.
  • Handle sensitive and confidential information with the utmost discretion and professionalism.
  • Generate and maintain detailed production binders and bibles, both physical and digital, for key personnel.
  • Troubleshoot day-to-day operational and logistical challenges, demonstrating a proactive and resourceful approach to problem-solving.
  • Support the casting process by helping to schedule auditions, distribute materials to actors, and manage casting paperwork.

Secondary Functions

  • Assist with research for locations, props, or other production-specific needs as directed by producers or department heads.
  • Help organize and execute production-related events, such as table reads, wrap parties, or team-building activities.
  • Provide basic IT support within the production office, troubleshooting common issues with printers, internet connectivity, and software.
  • Contribute to maintaining a positive and collaborative work environment for all cast and crew members.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Production Software Proficiency: Experience with industry-standard software such as Movie Magic Scheduling, Movie Magic Budgeting, and Final Draft.
  • Office Suite Mastery: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Drive) for creating schedules, trackers, and reports.
  • Expense Tracking: Competence in using accounting software or expense management platforms like SAP, EP SmartAccounting, or Concur.
  • Communication Tools: Familiarity with communication platforms like Slack, Zoom, and project management tools like Asana or Trello.
  • Document Management: Skill in creating and managing complex documents, including call sheets, production reports, and legal releases.

Soft Skills

  • Exceptional Organization: The ability to multitask, prioritize a heavy workload, and maintain meticulous attention to detail in a chaotic environment.
  • Proactive Problem-Solving: A forward-thinking mindset to anticipate potential issues and devise effective solutions before they impact production.
  • Superior Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting clearly and professionally with individuals at all levels, from PAs to executive producers.
  • Grace Under Pressure: The capacity to remain calm, focused, and adaptable when faced with tight deadlines and unexpected changes.
  • Resourcefulness: A can-do attitude with the ability to independently find information and solve logistical puzzles.
  • Interpersonal Skills: A team player with a positive attitude, capable of building strong working relationships and fostering a collaborative atmosphere.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent.

Preferred Education:

  • Bachelor's Degree.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Communications
  • Film & Television Production
  • Media Studies
  • Business Administration

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 1-3 years of experience in a relevant role.

Preferred: Direct experience as a Production Assistant in a fast-paced television or film production office is highly preferred. Experience on-set is also a significant asset.

Explore More Careers