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Backstage Technical Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Chapman University

Student Technical Assistant

Orange, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

... Technical Assistant Academic Year Academic Year 2026-2027 Term or Semester All Academic Year Is ... Perform basic maintenance and keep the scene shop, work areas, and backstage areas clean and safe.

Chapman University

Student Technical Assistant

Orange, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

... Technical Assistant Academic Year Academic Year 2026-2027 Term or Semester All Academic Year Is ... Perform basic maintenance and keep the scene shop, work areas, and backstage areas clean and safe.

GOODMAN THEATRE

House Carpenter

Chicago, IL · On-site

$33.44/hr

Working closely with Production Management, Stage Management, Technical Direction, and stage crews, the House Carpenter helps maintain a safe, organized, and professional backstage environment while ...

Soka

Student - PAC Production Assistant

Stuart, FL · On-site

... technical systems and managing backstage operations in the Performing Arts Center (Concert Hall and Black Box Theatre). This involves working with staging, lighting, sound, video, artist hospitality ...

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Backstage Technical information

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$20

$44

$89

How much do backstage technical jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for backstage technical in the United States is $44.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.52 and $50.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Backstage Technical, you need a solid understanding of stagecraft, lighting, sound engineering, and often a technical theatre qualification. Familiarity with lighting consoles, audio mixers, rigging systems, and stage management software is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and seamless technical support for live productions, contributing to smooth and successful performances.

What are some common challenges faced by backstage technical staff during live performances, and how can they be managed?

Backstage technical staff often face challenges such as last-minute equipment malfunctions, tight set change timelines, and effective communication under pressure. To manage these issues, it's important to be well-prepared with thorough pre-show checks, maintain clear communication with the production team via headsets or cues, and develop quick problem-solving skills. Building strong teamwork and staying adaptable ensures smooth transitions and helps minimize disruptions during live events.

What is the difference between Backstage Technical vs Stage Technician?

AspectBackstage TechnicalStage Technician
CredentialsTechnical certifications, audio/visual trainingTechnical skills, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentBehind the scenes, technical setups, equipment managementOn stage, setting up and operating stage equipment
Industry UsageFilm, TV, live events, theaterTheater, concerts, live performances

Backstage Technical and Stage Technician roles both involve technical skills and equipment handling. However, Backstage Technical professionals focus more on behind-the-scenes technical setup and management across various entertainment industries, while Stage Technicians are primarily responsible for on-stage setup and operation during performances. Both roles require technical certifications but differ in work environment and specific responsibilities.

What are Backstage Technical roles?

Backstage Technical roles refer to the various positions responsible for the technical aspects of live performances, such as theater, concerts, or events. These roles include jobs like lighting technicians, sound engineers, stagehands, riggers, and set builders. Their primary duties involve setting up, operating, and maintaining equipment, as well as ensuring smooth transitions during performances. Backstage technicians work closely with performers and directors to create the desired atmosphere and effects for a production. Their expertise is vital to the success of any live event.
More about Backstage Technical jobs
What job categories do people searching Backstage Technical jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Backstage Technical jobs are:
Backstage Technical jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backstage Technical job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 38% Full Time, 43% Part Time, 13% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $92,814 per year, or $44.6 per hour.
Assistant Technical Director

Assistant Technical Director

THE LAKE WORTH PLAYHOUSE INC

Lake Worth, FL • On-site

$32K - $42K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

 Assistant Technical Director / Lead Production Carpenter 
Lake Worth Playhouse seeks a skilled, collaborative, and hands-on Assistant Technical Director / Lead Production Carpenter to join our production team for the 2026–2027 season. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys building scenery, solving problems, working with volunteers, and helping bring theatrical productions to life from the first build day through closing night. Working closely with the Technical Director, Artistic Director, designers, staff, and volunteers, this individual will play a key role in the successful execution of our mainstage and black box productions. 
Responsibilities
  • Lead the construction of scenery for multiple productions throughout the season 
  • Interpret construction drawings, renderings, and technical plans
  • Assist with drawing and construction documentation as needed
  • Supervise and work alongside volunteer build crews
  • Coordinate scenic installations, load-ins, strikes, and changeovers 
  • Maintain shop organization, tools, equipment, and inventory 
  • Troubleshoot technical and construction challenges during rehearsals and performances 
  • Support production needs during technical rehearsals and performance runs 
  • Promote and maintain safe working practices throughout the production process 
Qualifications
  • Experience in scenic construction, carpentry, and technical theater 
  • Ability to read and work from technical drawings and construction plans
  • Strong woodworking and general fabrication skills
  • Excellent problem-solving abilities and attention to detail
  • Comfortable working independently and leading teams of volunteers
  • Positive attitude and collaborative spirit
  • Experience with drawing software such as Vectorworks, AutoCAD, or similar programs is preferred. 
Season Productions 
The successful candidate will support productions including: • Falsettos • The Game’s Afoot • A Chorus Line • Broadway Bound • Come From Away • Black Box Productions • Special Events and Community Programs 
What We’re Looking For
We are searching for someone who is more than a carpenter. We need a dependable production partner—someone who enjoys finding solutions, mentoring volunteers, working with designers, and helping a production cross the finish line. The ideal candidate is equally comfortable building a platform, hanging a door, solving a backstage issue during tech week, or helping a volunteer learn a new skill. 
Compensation
Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience, availability, and scope of responsibilities. 
To Apply 
Please submit a résumé, relevant experience, and any portfolio materials to daniel@lakeworthplayhouse.org