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Backstage Theatre Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ALLEY THEATRE

Overhire Wig Crew

Houston, TX

$18/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

$18/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 ...

Temple College

Technical Director

Temple, TX · On-site

... Backstage Theatre. Backed by a rich 50-year legacy of artistic excellence, this role oversees the technical execution for all institutional concerts, theatrical performances, and campus events. The ...

Drexel University

Theater Technician

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

Theater Technician Job no: 506979 Work type: Part-Time Location: University City - Philadelphia, PA ... Clear and clean the stage and backstage area before and after performances and events * Other ...

ALLEY THEATRE

Overhire Stage Operations Crew

Houston, TX · On-site

$18/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 Theatre information

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$12

$23

$44

How much do backstage theatre jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for backstage theatre in the United States is $23.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Backstage Theatre vs Stage Manager?

AspectBackstage TheatreStage Manager
Primary RoleSupports technical and production aspects behind the scenesCoordinates all aspects of a production, including cast, crew, and scheduling
CredentialsTechnical theater training, technical certificationsTheater management or production experience, often with technical knowledge
Work EnvironmentTheater backstage, technical areasStage, backstage, and production offices
Industry UsageUsed in theater, live performances, and production companiesCommonly used in theater, musicals, and live shows

While both roles are essential in theater productions, Backstage Theatre focuses on supporting technical and behind-the-scenes tasks, whereas a Stage Manager oversees the entire production process, coordinating performers and crew to ensure smooth performances.

What is a backstage theatre job?

Backstage theatre jobs refer to roles behind the scenes that support the production of a play or performance. These jobs include positions like stage manager, lighting technician, sound operator, set designer, costume designer, and props master. People in these roles work together to ensure that all technical and logistical aspects of a show run smoothly. They are essential for making sure actors, sets, and technical elements are in place and that the performance is seamless for the audience.

What are the most common challenges faced by backstage theatre crew, and how can they be managed effectively?

Backstage theatre crew often encounter challenges such as tight time constraints during scene changes, coordinating with multiple departments, and troubleshooting technical issues under pressure. Effective communication and clear planning are key to managing these demands, as is maintaining flexibility to adapt to last-minute changes. Building strong teamwork and regularly rehearsing transitions can help ensure smooth performances and reduce stress during live shows.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a backstage theatre technician?

To thrive as a Backstage Theatre Technician, you need a solid understanding of stagecraft, lighting, sound, and set construction, often backed by technical theatre training or related experience. Familiarity with light and sound boards, rigging equipment, and safety protocols is commonly required. Strong teamwork, problem-solving, and time management skills help you adapt quickly to changing cues and tight schedules. These abilities ensure smooth, safe, and professional theatre productions that meet artistic and technical standards.
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What cities are hiring for Backstage Theatre jobs?

Cities with the most Backstage Theatre job openings:

What states have the most Backstage Theatre jobs?

States with the most job openings for Backstage Theatre jobs include:

Backstage Theatre jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backstage Theatre job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 48% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,917 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Technical Theatre - On Call

Children's Theatre Charlotte

Charlotte, NC • On-site

$15/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 16 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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