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Backstage Theater Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Taylor University

Technical Director

Upland, IN · On-site

School of Arts and Humanities (HABS) Department: Theatre + Dance Opening Date: 07/31/2026 Summary The Technical Director supports backstage operations of Taylor Theatre venues and assists facility ...

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How much do backstage theater jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for backstage theater in Indiana is $100,736.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,400.00 and $104,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a backstage theater?

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.

What is the easiest backstage theater job to get?

The easiest backstage theater job to get is often a stagehand or crew member position, which typically requires minimal experience and may involve basic tasks like moving set pieces or assisting with equipment. These roles usually do not require specialized skills or certifications and often have flexible schedules, making them accessible for newcomers to theater work.
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Backstage Theater jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backstage Theater job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,736 per year, or $48.4 per hour.

Technical Director

Taylor University

Upland, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Taylor University rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 616 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Location : Upland
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 202500721
Area: School of Arts and Humanities (HABS)
Department: Theatre + Dance
Opening Date: 07/31/2026
Summary
The Technical Director supports backstage operations of Taylor Theatre venues and assists facility users by providing expertise in operations and equipment. This position provides supervision and support for theatre production and performances for the department of Music, Theatre, and Dance.
Mission and Commitment
Taylor's mission is to develop servant-leaders marked with a passion to minister Christ's redemptive love, grace, and truth to a world in need.
As a community, Taylor faculty, staff, and students commit to living out Christ's love and truth in the here and now. We worship together, serve one another, and grow in faith as we learn in the classroom, on the field, at chapel, and anywhere else we're doing Life Together.
Duties and Responsibilities
This position is primarily responsible to:
  • Testify to personal experience of salvation in Jesus Christ, affirm belief in the University's Statement of Faith, abide by and practice our Life Together Covenant, and both personally agree with and support the Foundational Documents of Taylor University.
  • Performs and oversees the staging and operation of lighting, sound, or other equipment and assets, as required for performances.
  • Performs and/or coordinates the troubleshooting and repair of theatrical technical equipment.
  • Train, supervise, and work alongside student production staff to provide support and direction on techniques, lighting, rigging, and carpentry.
  • Create technical drawings and set production; maintain performance and work areas as well as equipment and inventories.
  • Oversee shows, events, and rehearsals from a technical standpoint.
  • Ensure backstage safety, implement the Emergency Evacuation plan when necessary.
  • Other duties as assigned

Typical Qualifications
Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in fine art or related field.
  • Demonstrable knowledge of theatrical operations and equipment.
  • Additional knowledge of theatrical industry and safe production practices preferred.
  • 1-3 years of experience preferred.
  • Supervisory experience preferred.

Skills and Competencies
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of stakeholders
  • Ability to operate, troubleshoot, and perform routine repairs on a range of equipment and facilities.
  • Ability to read, understand, follow, and enforce safety procedures.
  • Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
  • Skilled in project management and multitasking.
  • Ability to work independently, establish priorities, and meet deadlines.
  • Ability to develop, promote, and maintain cooperative, professional, and respectful working relationships with employees, contractors, vendors, and guests

Supplemental Information
  • Physical Demands
    • Considerable physical activity including lifting, pushing, or pulling objects up to 50lbs.
    • May require standing or walking for extended periods of time.
  • Work Environment
    • Work normally performed in a professional theatre. Requires working in tight spaces, under low light levels, and at heights.
    • Will be required to perform work outside of standard business hours including evenings and weekends; work schedule may vary from week to week.
  • Environmental Conditions
    • Limited exposure to physical risk

01
Please use this link (https://www.taylor.edu/_docs/about/offices/registrar/undergrad-catalog/foundation.pdf) to navigate to the Taylor University website to review the following documents, which are part of our Foundational Documents: - Mission Statement- Statement of Faith- Sanctity of Life Statement- Statement on Human Sexuality- Multicultural Philosophy Statement
  • Yes, I have read this page in its entirety and understand its contents
  • No, I have not read this page in its entirety or I do not understand its contents.

02
In reference to the Foundational Documents: Do you personally support these statements to be your own example of belief, and if hired by Taylor University, would you agree to abide by the Life Together Covenant, Sanctity of Life Statement, the Statement of Human Sexuality, the Statement on Multicultural Philosophy, Taylor University Mission Statement, and Statement of Faith?
  • Yes
  • No

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