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Backstage Assistant Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

$14.25 - $19/hr

Support the setup, operation, and maintenance of lighting, sound, and projection equipment. * Assist with backstage operations, scene changes, and technical rehearsals. * Help keep theatre facilities ...

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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 popular job titles related to Backstage Assistant jobs in Tennessee? For Backstage Assistant jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Backstage Assistant jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Backstage Assistant jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Backstage Assistant jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Backstage Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Backstage Assistant job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

$14.25 - $19/hr

Part-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Job Description

BS - Theatre, Perform other duties as assigned to support departmental productions and activities.
Interest in technical theatre, stagecraft, or live event production. Basic knowledge of scenery, lighting, sound, costumes, stage management, or theatrical production practices.
Willingness to learn new technical skills and work together in a fast-paced production setting. Strong organizational, communication, and time management skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team while following the direction of faculty and production staff.
Availability to work evenings and weekends as needed for rehearsals and performances.
Capacity to safely lift and carry up to 40 pounds and meet the physical demands of theatrical production, including standing, climbing ladders, bending, and moving production materials.
  • Assist with the operation and organization of the costume shop, scenic shop, and sound and lighting booth.
  • Help construct, paint, install, maintain, and take down scenery for productions.
  • Assist with organizing, maintaining, altering, laundering, and keeping an inventory of costumes.
  • Support the setup, operation, and maintenance of lighting, sound, and projection equipment.
  • Assist with backstage operations, scene changes, and technical rehearsals.
  • Help keep theatre facilities, production spaces, tools, and equipment clean and safe.
  • Assist with organizing and maintaining inventories of costumes, scenery, props, and technical equipment.
  • Help faculty/staff prepare materials for productions.
  • Assist in coordinating and organizing production materials, schedules, and shop activities.
  • Help obtain and maintain production documentation as assigned.
  • Provide guidance and mentorship to student workers when requested by Faculty/Staff.
  • Participate in load-in, strike, and special events sponsored by the Theatre Department.

Perform other duties as assigned to support departmental productions and activities.