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Backline Tech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ole Red

Audio Engineer - ACL Live

Austin, TX

Maintain operational understanding of current audio/visual/lighting/backline technologies. * Maintain awareness of music structures and arrangements, including current technologies. * Recommend ...

SongTeller Hotel

Audio Visual Technician

Nashville, TN · On-site

Maintain operational understanding of current audio/visual/lighting/backline technologies and production vendors. * Ensure that all equipment is used and stored safely, in accordance with proper ...

Smarsh

Sr. Technical Support Engineer I

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$105K - $115K/yr

Advanced level expertise as SME (Subject-Matter-Expert) for assigned focused technologies or products as point of escalation for frontline or backline teams. Assigned to specialized teams or projects ...

Smarsh

Sr. Technical Support Engineer I

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$105K - $115K/yr

Advanced level expertise as SME (Subject-Matter-Expert) for assigned focused technologies or products as point of escalation for frontline or backline teams. Assigned to specialized teams or projects ...

Smarsh

Sr. Technical Support Engineer I

Portland, OR · On-site

$105K - $115K/yr

Advanced level expertise as SME (Subject-Matter-Expert) for assigned focused technologies or products as point of escalation for frontline or backline teams. Assigned to specialized teams or projects ...

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Backline Tech information

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How much do backline tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for backline tech in the United States is $25.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the most common challenges faced by a backline tech during live events, and how can they be managed effectively?

Backline Techs often face challenges such as last-minute equipment changes, troubleshooting technical issues under tight time constraints, and coordinating with artists who have unique gear preferences. Effective communication with stage managers and performers, thorough pre-show checks, and having backup equipment ready are key strategies to manage these challenges. Building strong relationships with both the audio team and performers helps to anticipate needs and ensures smooth transitions during live shows.

What is a backline tech?

Backline Techs, also known as backline technicians, are professionals responsible for setting up, maintaining, and troubleshooting musical instruments and related equipment for live performances, concerts, and studio sessions. They ensure that all instruments such as guitars, keyboards, drums, and amplifiers are performance-ready and function correctly throughout events. Backline Techs work closely with musicians, stage crews, and sound engineers to provide seamless support before, during, and after shows. Their expertise is vital for preventing technical issues and ensuring smooth performances.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a backline tech?

To thrive as a Backline Tech, you need a solid understanding of musical instruments, equipment setup, troubleshooting, and experience in live event environments. Familiarity with audio consoles, amplifiers, wireless systems, and basic electrical safety, along with relevant certifications like AVIXA or manufacturer-specific training, is highly valuable. Strong communication, organization, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are essential soft skills in this role. These qualifications ensure reliable performance support, quick problem-solving, and seamless event execution for artists and production teams.

What is the difference between Backline Tech vs Audio Engineer?

AspectBackline TechAudio Engineer
CredentialsTechnical training, certifications in audio or music techDegree in audio engineering or related field, certifications
Work EnvironmentOn-site at concerts, tours, live eventsStudio, live events, broadcast settings
Employer & IndustryMusic tours, festivals, event productionRecording studios, live sound companies, broadcast

Backline Techs primarily focus on setting up and maintaining musical equipment for live performances, while Audio Engineers handle the overall sound quality, mixing, and recording. Both roles require technical skills and certifications, but Backline Techs are more equipment-focused, working closely with musicians and stage crews, whereas Audio Engineers often work in controlled environments like studios or broadcast settings.

How to become a backline technician?

To become a backline technician, gain experience with musical equipment, sound systems, and stage setup through apprenticeships or entry-level positions. Developing technical skills, understanding audio and instrument maintenance, and obtaining relevant certifications can improve job prospects; familiarity with tools like audio mixers and power supplies is also beneficial.
More about Backline Tech jobs
What cities are hiring for Backline Tech jobs? Cities with the most Backline Tech job openings:
What states have the most Backline Tech jobs? States with the most job openings for Backline Tech jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Backline Tech jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Backline Tech jobs are:
Backline Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backline Tech job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 42% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,522 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

AV Tech - Ole Red Nashville Airport

Ole Red

Nashville, TN

Part-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Ole Red rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Serve as technician and supporting engineer, operating audio, video, and lighting equipment for music performances for a restaurant, bar, and entertainment destination. Ensure world-class technical execution and the delivery of quality experiences for visiting artists and guests. Reports to Manager of Production.
  • Serve as primary audio/visual equipment operator for music performances and events.
  • Provide day-to-day technical and operational needs for sound, lights, video, and backline equipment required for music performances and events.
  • Work with venue leadership to coordinate onsite production during events, providing stage direction when needed.
  • Assist department leads in preventative maintenance and repair of audio-visual and lighting equipment and media appliances.
  • Report equipment technical issues to department lead or production manager.* Assist visiting artists with equipment load-in, set-up, tear-down, and load-out of event production equipment.
  • Interface with technical services, IT staff and other departments concerning technical systems.
  • Maintain operational understanding of current audio/visual/lighting/backline technologies and production vendors.
  • Ensure that all equipment is used safely, in accordance with proper industry standards, from the load-in through the load-out.
  • Maintain a safe and secure environment for artists, clients, employees, etc., ensuring that all codes, laws, regulations, and emergency procedures are followed.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
Education
  • High school diploma or equivalent required
Experience
  • 2+ years of experience working as audio or video engineer for a national touring act, production vendor/supplier, performance venue, and/or hotel A/V department
  • Hands-on experience required with equipment repair procedures and maintenance
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Working knowledge of music, acoustics, stage lighting, and video engineering is required
Licenses / Certifications
  • Must meet all requirements to receive required airport SIDA badge, including successful completion of a background check
This position requires a pre-employment drug screening (4-panel: phencyclidine, cocaine, amphetamines, and opiates).

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