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Backline Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SFJAZZ

Event Technician Supervisor

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

SFJAZZ is looking for a talented Event Technician Manager. TheEventTechnicianSupervisoris ... backline setup * Provide set-up and breakdown support for performance and events within the SFJAZZ ...

Ole Red

AV Tech - Ole Red BNA

Nashville, TN · On-site

Serve as technician and supporting engineer, operating audio, video, and lighting equipment for ... Provide day-to-day technical and operational needs for sound, lights, video, and backline equipment ...

Ole Red

AV Tech - Category 10 Nashville

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17.75 - $24.75/hr

Serve as technician and supporting engineer, operating audio, video, and lighting equipment for ... Provide day-to-day technical and operational needs for sound, lights, video, and backline equipment ...

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How much do backline technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for backline technician in the United States is $18.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.30 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a backline tech job description?

A backline technician is responsible for setting up, maintaining, and troubleshooting musical equipment such as amplifiers, drums, and keyboards for live performances. They ensure that all instruments and gear are functioning properly and may assist with load-in, load-out, and equipment repairs. Strong technical skills and knowledge of audio and stage equipment are essential for this role.

What jobs pay $400 an hour?

Backline technicians typically do not earn $400 an hour; such high rates are usually associated with specialized roles like top-tier consultants, highly experienced surgeons, or certain executive-level positions. In the entertainment industry, some highly skilled audio or lighting engineers working on major events may reach high hourly rates, but these are rare and often require extensive experience and certifications. Most jobs paying $400 an hour are in niche fields or require advanced expertise and credentials.

What does a typical day look like for a Backline Technician on tour or at an event?

A typical day for a Backline Technician involves unloading, setting up, and sound-checking instruments and equipment before performances, as well as maintaining and troubleshooting gear during shows. You’ll work closely with musicians, audio engineers, and stage crew to ensure all equipment is performance-ready and quickly address any technical issues that arise. Days can be fast-paced, especially when dealing with tight schedules, multiple acts, or unexpected challenges. Teamwork, effective communication, and a proactive approach are essential, making the environment dynamic and rewarding for those who enjoy live music production. Additionally, you may be responsible for packing down and safely transporting gear after the event.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Backline Technician position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Backline Technician, you need a solid understanding of musical instruments and audio equipment, strong troubleshooting abilities, and hands-on experience in live event or studio settings. Familiarity with equipment such as amplifiers, drum kits, keyboards, and industry-standard audio gear, as well as knowledge of basic electronics, is valuable and may be enhanced with certifications like AVIXA or manufacturer-specific training. Excellent communication, adaptability, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are standout soft skills for this role. Mastering these skills ensures seamless setup, operation, and maintenance of equipment, which is crucial for smooth live performances and artist satisfaction.

What is a Backline Technician job?

A Backline Technician is responsible for setting up, maintaining, and troubleshooting musical instruments and equipment for live performances and recording sessions. They work closely with musicians, ensuring that amplifiers, keyboards, drum kits, and other gear are in optimal condition. Their duties include transporting, assembling, tuning, and repairing equipment as needed. Backline Technicians often travel with touring artists and must be adaptable to different venues and technical requirements.

What jobs make $500,000 a year?

Backline technicians typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized medical professionals, or successful entrepreneurs. In the entertainment industry, top-tier touring sound engineers or production managers may reach high six-figure incomes with experience and additional income sources. Most jobs paying $500,000 or more require advanced skills, significant experience, or ownership of a business.

What jobs make $10,000 a month without a degree?

Backline technicians in the entertainment industry can earn $10,000 or more per month through freelance work, overtime, or high-profile events, especially with specialized skills in audio, lighting, or stage setup. Other high-paying roles without a degree include certain sales positions, real estate brokers, and skilled trades like electricians or plumbers with experience and certifications. These jobs often require technical skills, certifications, or extensive experience rather than formal college degrees.
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Backline Technician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backline Technician job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 30% Full Time, 40% Part Time, 20% Temporary, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $38,388 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Event Technician Supervisor

San Francisco Jazz Organization

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$75K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

SFJAZZ is looking for a talented Event Technician Manager. The Event Technician Supervisor is responsible for supporting crucial administration and direct set-up/strike support for internal and external events. This position provides day-of event operational support, coordination with presenting departments and stakeholders as well as Production Managers. This role provides direct supervision of on-call Event Technicians through scheduling, task communication and direct task supervision.
Responsibilities:
  • Review facility schedules and plan appropriate coverage to support stage changes, chair and table setups, equipment transfers and backline setup
  • Provide set-up and breakdown support for performance and events within the SFJAZZ Center including installation and strike of backline equipment, portable stages, portable sound systems,bannersand signage
  • Attend regular meetings with Production, Rentals, Education, Artistic and Box Office departments to determine needs
  • Create and maintain schedules and setup documentation using SFJAZZ systems (Artifax, Lasso, Office 365)
  • Communicate event needs and schedules with on-call employees
  • Liaise directly with internal presenting departments and external stakeholders on event days
  • Enforce venue safety and event policies
  • Train on-call Event Technicians in SFJAZZ equipment, setup, standards and protocols
  • Oversee annual maintenance on house systems such asNIVOflex
    risers andAcoustaCorpbanners
  • Drive SFJAZZ vehicles (box trucks, vans, SUV's, etc) to move equipment for storage and offsite event support
  • Assist the Facilities Department in the management of offsite storage and the coordination of materials and equipment shipped to and from the venue.
  • Facilitate credit card statement processing and coding for event technicianrelated-itemsand credit cards
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications
  • At least 2-3 years' experience with event management and production
  • Knowledge of backline, staging, seating systems and basic PA systems
  • Understanding of production and FOH show positions and their responsibilities
  • Familiarity
    with ADA requirements, life safety and crowd management
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
  • Proficiency in Office 365
  • Ability to direct and manage several projects of equal priority simultaneously and sustain productivity under pressure
  • Collaborative working style with the ability to foster positive working relationships with diverse groups
  • CA driver's license
  • Priorexperienceoperatinglarge SUVorvan
  • Consent to Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) produced by the DMV

Working Conditions
SFJAZZ has a hybrid work policy. This position requires you to be on-site a minimum of 4 days per week. Evenings, weekends and extended hours will be required during certain production weeks.
Physical requirements include ability to safely navigate stairs, extended periods of time standing, working in dark environments, and the ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

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