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Backstage Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Legends Global

Director - FB

Richmond, VA · On-site

$100 - $150/hr

... backstage catering, banquets, and special events. This position is responsible for ensuring exceptional guest experiences, operational excellence, and strong financial performance.Essential ...

ASM Global-SMG

Director - FB

Richmond, VA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

... backstage catering, banquets, and special events. This position is responsible for ensuring exceptional guest experiences, operational excellence, and strong financial performance. Essential ...

ASM Global

Director - FB

Richmond, VA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

... hospitality, backstage catering, banquets, and special events. This position is responsible for delivering exceptional guest experiences, driving operational excellence, and achieving strong ...

ASM Global

Director - FB

Richmond, VA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

... hospitality, backstage catering, banquets, and special events. This position is responsible for delivering exceptional guest experiences, driving operational excellence, and achieving strong ...

Dominion Energy Center

Director - FB

Richmond, VA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

... backstage catering, banquets, and special events. This position is responsible for ensuring exceptional guest experiences, operational excellence, and strong financial performance.**Essential ...

Worky

Lead DevSecOps Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Design, implement, and maintain Internal Developer Platform (IDP) capabilities using tools such as Backstage and modern platform engineering practices. * Develop and maintain secure CI/CD pipelines ...

New

Jefferson Center

House Manager

Roanoke, VA · On-site

... backstage staff during the production; coordinate activities as necessary. • Address any contingencies as they arise, including custodial concerns, medical emergencies, or patron needs; assist in ...

Alarm.com

Staff Software Engineer

Tysons Corner, VA · On-site

NET, SQL Server, Kafka, K8s, Azure, Redis, Helm, Argo Rollouts, Grafana, and Backstage. - Be Empowered: We don't want to micro-manage you. We barely want to tell you what to do. We want you to own ...

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Backstage information

What is a backstage job?

Backstage jobs refer to roles that support performances and productions behind the scenes in theater, film, television, and live events. These jobs include positions like stagehands, lighting and sound technicians, costume designers, set builders, and makeup artists. Backstage workers ensure that everything runs smoothly during a production, handling technical, creative, and organizational tasks. Their efforts are essential for delivering seamless performances to audiences, even though they are not visible on stage or screen.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a backstage crew member?

To thrive as a Backstage Crew Member, you need practical knowledge of stagecraft, lighting, sound equipment, and often a high school diploma or relevant technical training. Familiarity with stage management software, rigging systems, and safety certifications like OSHA are typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure smooth, safe, and professional execution of live events or performances.

How does a backstage crew member typically collaborate with other departments during a live production?

Backstage crew members work closely with various departments such as lighting, sound, costumes, and stage management to ensure smooth transitions and timely execution of cues during a live show. Communication and teamwork are essential, as crew members often coordinate scene changes, manage props, and troubleshoot issues in real-time. These collaborations are usually rehearsed in advance, but flexibility and adaptability are crucial since live productions can present unexpected challenges. Building strong relationships with other departments can lead to a more seamless workflow and greater opportunities for advancement within the technical theater field.

What is the difference between Backstage vs Stage Manager?

AspectBackstageStage Manager
CredentialsTypically no formal certification required, but knowledge of theater or event production helpfulOften requires training or certification in theater production or event management
Work EnvironmentBehind the scenes in theaters, concerts, or events, focusing on technical setup and supportOn-stage and backstage coordination during performances or events
Employer & Industry UsageTheater companies, concert venues, event production teamsTheater productions, live shows, and large event organizations

Backstage roles focus on technical support and behind-the-scenes work, while Stage Managers coordinate the entire production process, ensuring smooth performances. Both roles are essential in theater and live event industries but differ in responsibilities and required skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Backstage jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Backstage jobs in Virginia are:

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

The top searched job categories for Backstage jobs in Virginia are:

Backstage jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backstage job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Student Production Crew Positions - Drama Department (Student Wage)

The University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$13/hr

Part-time

Posted 26 days ago

University Of Virginia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

209th of 620 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Student Production Crew Positions - Drama Department
2026-2027 Academic Season
The Drama Department is seeking enthusiastic, dependable student workers to join our production crews for the 2026-2027 academic season. Student employees will play an essential role in supporting theatrical productions, dance concerts, film festival events, and other special events throughout the year.
Scheduled Productions & Events
  • Virginia Film Festival: October 20-25, 2026
  • Are You Now or Have You Ever Been: October 15-November 7, 2026
  • Fall Dance Concert: November 11-21, 2026
  • Alice by Heart: March 23-April 17, 2027
  • Spring Dance Concert: April 12-24, 2027
  • Additional one-time performances, workshops, lectures, and special events throughout the academic year (dates TBD)

Pay Rate
$13.00 per hour
Available Positions
Stage Manager (SM)
The Stage Manager serves as the primary coordinator for rehearsals and performances and works closely with directors, designers, performers, and production staff.
Responsibilities:
  • Attend rehearsals and production meetings
  • Maintain rehearsal reports and performance records
  • Coordinate communication among production teams
  • Call lighting, sound, and scenic cues during performances
  • Oversee backstage operations and ensure smooth execution of performances
  • Assist with scheduling and production logistics

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Strong organizational and leadership skills
  • Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment
  • Previous theatrical experience preferred but not required

Assistant Stage Manager (ASM)
The Assistant Stage Manager supports the Stage Manager and assists with backstage coordination.
Responsibilities:
  • Monitor backstage activity during rehearsals and performances
  • Track props, costumes, and performer entrances/exits
  • Assist with set changes and production logistics
  • Communicate backstage needs to the Stage Manager
  • Help maintain rehearsal and performance documentation

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Interest in theatrical production

Lighting Board Operator
Lighting Board Operators execute lighting cues during performances and assist with technical rehearsals.
Responsibilities:
  • Operate computerized lighting consoles during performances
  • Attend technical rehearsals and cue-to-cue sessions
  • Work with lighting designers and production staff
  • Assist with basic lighting setup and troubleshooting as assigned

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Interest in lighting technology and live production
  • Ability to follow detailed cue sequences
  • Prior experience helpful but training will be provided

Sound Board Operator
Sound Board Operators manage audio playback and reinforcement during performances and events.
Responsibilities:
  • Operate sound consoles and playback systems
  • Execute audio cues during rehearsals and performances
  • Assist with microphone setup and testing
  • Monitor sound quality and communicate issues to production staff
  • Support other departmental events as needed

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Interest in audio technology and live sound
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Prior experience helpful but not required

Backstage Run Crew
Run Crew members assist with all backstage operations during performances and technical rehearsals.
Responsibilities:
  • Perform scene changes and move scenery safely and efficiently
  • Assist with props management and preset checks
  • Support costume changes and backstage logistics when needed
  • Help with load-in, strike, and event setup
  • Follow instructions from Stage Managers and technical staff

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Dependable and punctual
  • Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team
  • Willingness to learn theatre production practices
  • Ability to lift and carry production materials safely

Wardrobe Crew
Wardrobe Crew members help ensure performers are costumes-ready throughout rehearsals and performances while maintaining costume organization and backstage efficiency.
Responsibilities:
  • Assist with costume preparation, organization, and maintenance
  • Set up and maintain dressing room and quick-change areas
  • Support performers with costume changes during performances
  • Conduct costume preset and post-show checks
  • Assist with laundry, steaming, basic repairs, and costume storage as directed
  • Work closely with the Costume Shop Supervisor, Stage Manager, and production staff
  • Help with costume load-in, strike, and inventory as needed

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Strong attention to detail and organization
  • Ability to work calmly and efficiently in a fast-paced backstage environment
  • Interest in costume design, wardrobe management, fashion, or theatrical production
  • Sewing skills are helpful but not required
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism when assisting performers

General Requirements for All Positions
  • Must be a currently enrolled student.
  • Ability to work evenings and weekends as required by production schedules.
  • Commitment to attending scheduled rehearsals, technical rehearsals, performances, and assigned events.
  • Strong communication skills and professionalism.
  • Ability to work effectively in a collaborative artistic environment.
  • No prior theatre experience is required for most positions; training will be provided.

Benefits
  • Gain hands-on experience in theatre, dance, and event production.
  • Develop leadership, communication, and technical skills.
  • Work alongside faculty, guest artists, and experienced student leaders.
  • Contribute to a vibrant season of performing arts events.

Join the Drama Department production team and help bring exciting performances and events to life throughout the 2026-2027 academic year
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Education: Current UVA student
Experience: None
Licensure: None
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The job does occasionally require traveling some distance to attend meetings, and programs.
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.

What University Of Virginia employees say

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About University of Virginia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Virginia is distinctive among institutions of higher education. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University sustains the ideal of developing, through education, leaders who are well-prepared to shape the future of the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

1819

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