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Backstage Crew Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Backstage Crew information

See Alabama salary details

$9

$19

$29

How much do backstage crew jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for backstage crew in Alabama is $19.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $22.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a backstage crew?

Backstage crew are the team members responsible for supporting all technical and logistical aspects of a live performance or event behind the scenes. Their duties may include setting up and moving sets, operating lighting and sound equipment, managing props, and ensuring that all scene changes run smoothly. They work closely with directors, performers, and production staff to make sure performances run safely and efficiently. Backstage crew are essential to the success of theater, concerts, and other live events, often working quickly and quietly out of the audience’s view.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a backstage crew member?

To thrive as a Backstage Crew member, you need technical knowledge of stagecraft, basic understanding of safety protocols, and experience handling stage equipment, often gained through on-the-job training or theatre-related courses. Familiarity with common tools, rigging systems, lighting controls, and sound equipment is typically required. Strong teamwork, clear communication, adaptability, and the ability to work under pressure are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring smooth, safe, and efficient live event operations while contributing to a seamless audience experience.

What are some common challenges faced by backstage crew members during live performances?

Backstage crew members often work under tight time constraints and must adapt quickly to unexpected changes, such as last-minute set adjustments or technical issues. The environment can be fast-paced, requiring strong communication and teamwork to ensure smooth transitions between scenes. Managing heavy or delicate equipment safely and efficiently is also a key challenge, especially during quick set changes. Staying calm under pressure and being prepared for any contingency are essential skills for success in this role.

What is the difference between Backstage Crew vs Stagehands?

AspectBackstage CrewStagehands
CredentialsVaries; often no formal certification, but technical skills helpfulSimilar; often no formal certification, focus on technical skills
Work EnvironmentBehind the scenes in theaters, concerts, eventsBehind the scenes in theaters, concerts, events
Employer & Industry UsageUsed interchangeably in entertainment and live event industriesUsed interchangeably in entertainment and live event industries

Backstage Crew and Stagehands typically perform similar roles behind the scenes in theaters and live events. Both require technical skills and work in similar environments, often without formal certifications. The terms are frequently used interchangeably in the industry, focusing on supporting performances without being on stage.

What are popular job titles related to Backstage Crew jobs in Alabama?

For Backstage Crew jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Backstage Crew jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Backstage Crew jobs in Alabama are:

Infographic showing various Backstage Crew job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $40,117 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Operations Crew Leader

Alabama State University

Montgomery, AL • On-site

$35K - $45K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Job Description Alabama State University, Operations and Event Management, invite applications for the Operations Crew Leader. The Crew Leader is responsible for providing technical and physical support for university events, theatrical productions, concerts, lectures, athletic events, commencements, conferences, and special campus activities. This position assists with the setup, operation, maintenance, and breakdown of stage equipment, scenery, lighting, sound, and related production elements while ensuring a safe, efficient, and professional environment.

The Operations Crew Leaders works collaboratively with event staff, production teams, faculty, students, performers, and outside vendors to ensure successful execution of campus events. Duties and Responsibilities: Assist with loading, unloading, assembling, and dismantling stage equipment, scenery, platforms, curtains, and staging systems. Set up and strike lighting, sound, video, and audiovisual equipment for university events and performances.

Install and remove drapery, backdrops, projection screens, and rigging equipment as directed. Assist with stage changes during performances, ceremonies, and special events. Operate basic stage equipment and assist technical staff during productions.

Move musical instruments, furniture, podiums, risers, and event equipment safely and efficiently. Assist with event setup and breakdown according to approved production schedules and floor plans. Perform routine inspections of stage equipment and report maintenance or safety concerns.

Maintain cleanliness and organization of backstage areas, storage rooms, and production spaces. Follow all university safety procedures, and entertainment industry best practices. Work with outside production companies, contractors, and vendors during campus events.

Assist with crowd barriers, backstage security, and performer access when assigned. Support emergency response procedures during events as directed. Complete assigned work orders and production tasks within established timelines.

Assist other Operations & Event Management staff with facility setup and operational support as needed. Perform other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications High school diploma or GED required, one (1) year of experience in stage production, event production, theater operations, live entertainment, or related field preferred, have the ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended shifts, have a valid driver's license preferred, and must be able to lift/move up to 75 pounds of furniture, props, staging and displays on a routine basis.

Supplemental Information EEOC STATEMENT: It is the policy of Alabama State University to provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION: Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of the job. Federal law requires identity and employment eligibility verification on Form I-9 within three (3) business days of employment.

All positions require the passing of a background check and some the passing of a drug screen.