ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Backstage Crew Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Tri-C

Lead Theatre Technician

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$42K - $55K/yr

... crew. Works closely with the Theatre Technical Director to provide assistance for technical ... Working backstage during performance, assisting with costume changes * Relaying costume repair and ...

Livenation

Stagehand - Bogart's

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

... crew with fixtures, lamps, gels, cabling, etc. * Operate and care for stage areas in a safe, clean manner * Assist with any Special Events operations * Ensure backstage and stage area is cleared and ...

Tri-C

Lead Theatre Technician

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$23.75/hr

... crew. Works closely with the Theatre Technical Director to provide assistance for technical ... Working backstage during performance, assisting with costume changes * Relaying costume repair and ...

All JobsBackstage Crew JobsBackstage Crew Jobs in Ohio

Backstage Crew information

See Ohio salary details

$10

$20

$30

How much do backstage crew jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for backstage crew in Ohio is $20.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $23.56 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 Ohio?

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

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

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

Backstage Crew jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backstage Crew job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $42,078 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Student Employee, VRCFA Stage Crew 26-27 Academic Year

Shawnee State University

Portsmouth, OH • On-site

$11/hr

Part-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Salary: $11.00 Hourly
Location : 940 Second St. Portsmouth, OH 45662, OH
Job Type: Part-Time
Job Number: POS-683
Division: Finance and Administration
Department: AEM-Vern Riffe Center for the Arts
Opening Date: 08/14/2026
Closing Date: 5/9/2027 11:59 PM Eastern
Job Description Summary
ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT:
The Vern Riffe Center for the Arts Stage Crew provides technical and backstage support for concerts, theatrical productions, university programs, community events, touring productions, lectures, meetings, and other events presented at or utilizing the VRCFA.
This is an as-needed, event-based position with no guaranteed number of hours per week. Work opportunities are determined by the VRCFA event schedule and production requirements. Hours may vary considerably from week to week and throughout the year.
Stage Crew members work under the supervision of the VRCFA Production Manager and assist in providing a safe, professional, and efficient environment for visiting artists, university productions, rental clients, and audiences.
POSITION SUMMARY, ROUTINE TASKS & RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Assist with load-in, setup, operation, changeover, and load-out of performances and events.
  • Load and unload trucks containing scenery, lighting, audio equipment, musical instruments, road cases, and other production equipment.
  • Set up and strike staging, platforms, risers, orchestra equipment, chairs, tables, music stands, curtains, and other event equipment.
  • Assist with the installation, focusing, cabling, operation, and removal of theatrical lighting equipment.
  • Assist with audio equipment, including microphones, speakers, monitors, consoles, cabling, stands, and related equipment.
  • Assist with scenery, props, soft goods, projection/video equipment, and other production elements.
  • Serve as deck crew, running crew, spotlight operator, lighting assistant, audio assistant, stagehand, or other backstage position during performances.
  • Assist VRCFA staff and visiting touring personnel with production requirements.
  • Perform stage changeovers during concerts and other live events.
  • Assist with maintaining clean and organized stages, backstage areas, dressing rooms, control areas, shops, loading areas, and equipment storage spaces.
  • Properly handle, transport, and store VRCFA and Shawnee State University equipment.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Registered full-time SSU student
  • Eligible to work in the United States
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Demonstrate reliability, punctuality, and follow instructions
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office and social media platforms
  • Follow SSU dress code policy

This position is not eligible for benefits.

Apply