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Backstage Assistant Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Backstage Assistant information

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a backstage assistant during a live performance?

As a Backstage Assistant, your daily responsibilities during a live performance often include organizing and tracking props, assisting with quick costume changes, ensuring performers are in the correct places at the right times, and maintaining clear communication with stage management. You'll also help with setting up and striking sets between scenes, and may be called upon to resolve unexpected issues quickly and discreetly. Teamwork is essential, as you'll be working closely with stage managers, performers, and technical crew to ensure smooth show operations.

What is the difference between Backstage Assistant vs Stagehand?

AspectBackstage AssistantStagehand
CredentialsMay require basic theater or production trainingOften requires technical or production experience
Work EnvironmentBehind the scenes in theaters, concert halls, or TV studiosOn stage or backstage during live events or productions
Employer & IndustryTheater companies, TV studios, event venuesTheater productions, concerts, live shows

Backstage Assistants and Stagehands both work behind the scenes in entertainment settings. While Backstage Assistants typically handle support tasks like organizing props and assisting performers, Stagehands focus more on technical setup, lighting, and scene changes. Both roles require some technical knowledge and are essential for smooth production operations, but their specific duties and environments differ slightly.

What is a backstage assistant?

Backstage Assistants are essential team members who help ensure that performances, fashion shows, concerts, or other live events run smoothly behind the scenes. Their responsibilities often include organizing costumes and props, assisting performers with quick changes, managing equipment, and communicating with stage managers. They play a crucial role in maintaining order and timing backstage, helping to solve problems quickly as they arise. Their work is mostly unseen by the audience but is vital to the success of any live production.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a backstage assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Backstage Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask, often supported by experience in theater production or stage management. Familiarity with stage equipment, communication systems like headsets, and basic safety protocols is typically required. Excellent teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities help you stand out in this fast-paced environment. These skills ensure smooth show operations, quick resolution of issues, and effective coordination among crew members during live performances.
What are the most commonly searched types of Backstage jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Backstage jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Backstage Assistant jobs in Michigan? For Backstage Assistant jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Backstage Assistant jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Backstage Assistant jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Backstage Assistant jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Backstage Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Backstage Assistant job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Program and Events Assistant

Macomb Community College

Clinton Township, MI • On-site

$16.56 - $17.88/hr

Part-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Salary: See Position Description
Location : MCC - Center Campus, MI
Job Type: Part-Time
Job Number: 202301248
Department: Cultural Affairs & Community Engagement
Division: MCPA Production & Stage
Opening Date: 07/14/2026
Closing Date: 8/14/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Bargaining Unit: PT
Position Level: 4
Salary Range: $16.56 - $17.88 or per the Collective Bargaining Agreement. Maximum salary upon new hire is $16.56.
Working Hours and/or Working Conditions: Work days and hours will be scheduled by the department and will vary depending on the performance schedule. You will be required to work nights and weekends as needed. Schedule may include some long shifts but will not exceed 30 hours per week.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Must be willing to learn food and beverage safety requirements as well as hospitality and travel needs as required by touring artists. Willingness to work as a team member and present a welcoming and pleasant demeanor to clients and guests. Must be able to lift and carry up to 25 pounds. A valid driver's license is required. Will have working knowledge of Microsoft Office suite of software.
Supervision: SUPERVISION RECEIVED: Reports to the Facility, Events and Programs Manager. May also take direction from the Assistant Technical Coordinator and Lead Stage Technicians.SUPERVISION GIVEN: May direct part-time staff and volunteers assisting with hospitality needs.
Job Function
Coordinate all aspects of performer hospitality including but not limited to catering, travel and accommodations. Ensure performers and crew have what is necessary to be comfortable or is required by contract as part of their engagement with Macomb Community College. Assist in all areas of contract management.
Job Responsibilities
  • Advance housing and transportation needs with artist management
  • Arrange local travel and lodging needed by performing artists
  • Research hotels and transportation services and make recommendations to the Facility, Events and Programs Manager
  • Schedule in-house event runners and book rental cars or car services as needed to fulfill travel requirements
  • Advance and schedule catering and meal needs for performances and events
  • Maintain and order stock for Green Room hospitality
  • Work with Macomb Center designated staff to keep Green Room and food storage areas maintained within health code standards
  • Work with Macomb Center designated staff to set up, monitor and strike the Green Room as needed
  • Work with Patron Services and Volunteer Coordinator to schedule volunteer staff to support the Green Room as needed
  • Coordinate with Operations Coordinator on needs for VIP events
  • Assist with other backstage needs and duties as assigned
  • Assist the Facility, Events and Programs Manager with regular reporting and contracting requirements including community partner and rental clients
  • Other duties as appropriate

Education
High School Diploma.
Qualifications
Prior hospitality or food service experience preferred.
Part-time employees are eligible for some Macomb Community College benefits including retirement with the Michigan Office of Retirement Services, as well as voluntary options for retirement. Part-time employees are also eligible for accrual of PTO and tuition waivers.
To learn more, visit our Bargaining Unit Information page
https://www.macomb.edu/human-resources/employment-information/bargaining-unit-information.html