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Backstage Theater Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ALLEY THEATRE

Overhire Wig Crew

Houston, TX

$17.50/hr

Prior backstage theatrical experience. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORKING CONDITIONS * Prolonged periods of standing during show performances * Able to routinely lift 30-50 lbs. either independently or ...

ALLEY THEATRE

Overhire Wig Crew

Houston, TX · On-site

$17.50/hr

Prior backstage theatrical experience. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORKING CONDITIONS * Prolonged periods of standing during show performances * Able to routinely lift 30-50 lbs. either independently or ...

GOODMAN THEATRE

House Carpenter

Chicago, IL · On-site

$33.44/hr

The ideal candidate is a skilled theatre technician and collaborative leader who thrives in fast-paced production environments and is capable of independently managing backstage operations and ...

ALLEY THEATRE

Overhire Stage Operations Crew

Houston, TX · On-site

$17.50/hr

Experience working backstage on theatrical productions preferred. * Ability to work in a fast-paced, energized and quickly changing environment. * Excellent organizational, interpersonal skills with ...

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Backstage Theater information

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$89.5K

$105.9K

$127.5K

How much do backstage theater jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for backstage theater in the United States is $105,863.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,000.00 and $110,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Backstage Theater job?

A backstage theater job involves working behind the scenes to support a live theater production. Roles can include stagehands, lighting and sound technicians, costume designers, prop managers, and set builders. These professionals ensure smooth performances by managing technical aspects, setting up equipment, and coordinating scene changes. Backstage theater workers collaborate closely with directors, actors, and crew members to bring a production to life.

What are the typical responsibilities for someone working backstage in theater productions?

Backstage theater professionals are responsible for setting up and operating technical equipment, moving sets and props, managing quick costume changes, and ensuring all cues are executed smoothly during a performance. They often work closely with stage managers, performers, and other crew members to coordinate scene transitions and resolve any unexpected issues during live shows. This role requires you to be adaptable, work irregular hours including evenings and weekends, and remain focused in high-pressure situations. Successful backstage team members ensure the technical aspects of productions run seamlessly, contributing significantly to the overall viewer experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Backstage Theater position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Backstage Theater role, you need a solid understanding of stagecraft, technical theater operations, and safety protocols, often supported by relevant experience or technical theater training. Familiarity with tools such as lighting boards, sound equipment, rigging systems, and set construction materials is highly beneficial. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, communication, and the ability to stay calm under pressure will help you excel in fast-paced show environments. These skills are essential to ensure seamless performances, maintain safety standards, and support the creative vision of productions.

More about Backstage Theater jobs
What cities are hiring for Backstage Theater jobs? Cities with the most Backstage Theater job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Backstage Theater jobs? The most popular types of Backstage Theater jobs are:
What states have the most Backstage Theater jobs? States with the most job openings for Backstage Theater jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Backstage Theater jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Backstage Theater jobs are:
Backstage Theater jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backstage Theater job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Locum Tenens, 14% Full Time, 71% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,863 per year, or $50.9 per hour.

Technical Theatre - On Call

Children's Theatre Charlotte

Charlotte, NC • On-site

$15/hr

Part-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Part-time, Temporary
Description
We create exceptional theatre experiences, inspiring generations to explore the wonder of their world.
Children's Theatre of Charlotte (CTC) is proud to be an organization where a dynamic mix of talented, committed, and enthusiastic people gather to do their best work. As we inspire generations to explore the wonder of our world, we desire to see the unique and amazing, expanding tapestry of this world and community reflected in all our programming, behind the scenes, and in our team members, board, and volunteers.
WHAT WE DO...
Children's Theatre of Charlotte is a national leader in Theatre for Young Audiences and is recognized for the breadth and strength of its programs. We are dedicated to creating vibrant and engaging theatre experiences, both on the stage and in the classroom. Our typical season consists of large book musicals, as well as more intimate productions. Generally, we produce 7 - 9 Mainstage shows, 2 elementary school tours, and a preschool tour annually. We are a professional theatre creating shows for children, not by children, however we generally cast student actors in one or two shows throughout the season. Our production season runs September to June.
WHAT YOU WILL DO...
We rely on our on-call Theatre Technical Staff to provide their technical theatre expertise in all areas of the technical theatre fields including costumes, lighting, sound, loading, rigging, prop and carpentry. These are as-needed, project based jobs that vary from show to show and season to season.
Considering joining our team if:
  • You are open to project based work that can last for 1-2 days up to 3-4 weeks.
  • You have the flexibility to occasionally work nights and weekends
  • You need supplemental income and enjoy a variety of project-based technical theatre jobs.

Requirements
PRODUCTION/SCENIC CREW
  • Carpenters - Responsible for the construction of set pieces. Carpentry skills are essential. Welding experience a plus. Assist with load-ins, load-outs, scenic notes, and other duties as assigned.
  • Scenic Artists - Assisting Charge Scenic on painting and finishing scenic elements and backdrops. Scenic painting and/or fine art skills are essential
  • Props Artisans - assist the Prop Supervisor in all activities and safety of the Prop Shop and storage spaces. Assist in the construction, fabrication and acquisition of all props for performance and rehearsal for all shows in a timely fashion. Assist in the maintenance and repair of props for all performances. Help document and maintain props from rented packages. Maintain a safe, secure, clean + organized office, shop and work space Fabricate all hand props, set dressing and furniture for productions. Necessary skills may include upholstery, carpentry, model building, etc.
  • Run Crew - Assists in the supervision and operation in the technical aspects of a production during a performance. A background in theatrical carpentry is helpful, but not essential. Experience working in a backstage theatre environment is a plus. Must be capable of lifting / moving 25lbs +, be reliable and a good time keeper. CTC is willing to train based on skill level.

ELECTRICS DEPARTMENT
  • Electricians -Ability to read plots and paperwork. Load-in and changing over lighting and electrical elements for each show. Keep the electrics shop and work areas clean and safe. Ability to safely lift 50+lbs. Ability to work safely at height 15'+. Experience with rigging and fly system and experience loading and unloading weight from a fly system preferred. Communication skills, ability to work independently and with a time and a positive attitude are a must. Must have the ability to multi-task and work quickly with attention to detail. Knowledge of lighting software programs (Vectorworks, Lightwright, EOS) preferred.
  • Lightboard Operators - Running light board for some rehearsals and all schedule performances of show assigned to. Check and maintain equipment during production runs. Pre/Post show duties as required by the production. Requires general knowledge of theatrical lighting equipment, ability to read lighting paperwork and plot; operate ETC Eos Family consoles. Programming knowledge is a plus. Must be able to operate common power tools; able to safely lift 50+lbs; able to work safely at height 15'+. Experience with fly systems preferred. Communication skills, ability to work independently and with a time and a positive attitude are a must.
  • Spotlight Operators - Experience operating a spotlight in a theatre setting. Is reliable, detail oriented, and has a positive attitude. Training is available based on skill level. Working at heights is essential.

SOUND DEPARTMENT
  • Soundboard Operators - Must be familiar proficient with Q-Lab. Responsible for tuning the house and running the cues for the show among other duties. operates the theatre's audio control system.
  • Sound Mixer - A more skilled Soundboard Operator necessary for larger shows in which mics are worn. Experience in line mixing is essential.
  • A2 -Assist with load-in of audio system, mic set up for cast, getting actors into mics and maintaining wireless mics during performances. Previous experience running mics.

COSTUME SHOP DEPARTMENT
  • Costume Shop Stitchers - Stitches, alters, and finishes all costumes under the supervision of the Lead Cutter/ Draper and the Costume Shop Manager. Must have demonstrated experience in hand and machine sewing techniques (industrial or domestic), and excellent garment construction skills. Needs to be able to follow directions, with previous professional theatrical costume shop experience preferred. Needs strong time-management skills and interpersonal skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced, energized, and quickly changing environment. Must have a proactive approach to problem-solving with strong decision-making skills. Needs to be detail-oriented, with the ability to prioritize efficiently and multi-task, be self-directed, and take initiative. Physical requirements and working conditions include prolonged periods of sitting and working on a sewing machine and the ability to lift and move 25 lbs. Typical working hours are during the day, with possible weekend/ holiday flexibility needed.
  • Wardrobe Supervisor - Supervises all Wardrobe Run Crew. Has the same listed responsibilities as Wardrobe Run Crew, as well as creating and executing the proper cleaning schedule for all garments, ensuring that laundry is done on a regular basis between performances. Coordinates and creates backstage paperwork in conjunction with stage management, costume shop management, and the costume designer, including assigning Wardrobe Run Crew tasks throughout the run of a show, and quick-change plots. Must have knowledge of all Wardrobe Run Crew running tracks in the case of an absence. Regularly inventories and inspects all costumes and coordinates all costume repairs. Must be a qualified seamstress in the case of costume repair emergencies during a show. Coordinates strike at the end of a show run, including all in-house laundry or sending out dry-cleaning. Ensures that costumes look as fresh and new for the last performance as they did on opening night. Either adds elements to aid in quick-changes or coordinates such needs with the costume shop.
  • Wardrobe Run Crew - Responsible for the care and proper maintenance, repair, and daily cleaning of all costumes, shoes, undergarments, hats, and costume-related personal props, such as gloves, jewelry, parasols, fans, and pocketbooks. Assists actors in quick changes. A background in sewing required, with additional knowledge in makeup/ hair preferred.

Hourly wages start at $15.00/hour.
Salary Description
Starts at $15.00/Hour

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