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Backstage Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Production Staff - The Norva

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$17.68 - $23.92/hr

... and backstage area after performances. * Load and unload equipment from trucks and set up equipment according to stage design while ensuring safety requirements are met. * Assist carpenters with ...

Conduct detailed inspections to ensure all public and backstage areas meet cleanliness standards before gates * Support waste management and sustainability efforts, including recycling and composting ...

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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:

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.

Production Staff - The Norva

AEG Presents

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$17.68 - $23.92/hr

Other

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

For more than 20 years, AEG has played a pivotal role in transforming sports and live entertainment. Annually, we host more than 160 million guests, promote more than 10,000 shows and present more than 22,000 events around the world. We are committed to innovation, artistry, and community, and leverage the power of our 300+ venues, leading sports franchises, marquee music brands, integrated entertainment districts, premier ticketing platform and global sponsorship activations, to create memorable moments that give the world reason to cheer.

Our business is interwoven with the human mind and heart, and we strive to build a diverse and inclusive company that reflects the artists, athletes, and fans that we host; reach beyond traditional boundaries to support the communities in which we operate; and minimize our impact on the environment by adopting sustainable practices throughout our business operations.

If you want to be challenged to up your game and make a difference, then join us in giving the world reason to cheer!

1.LIGHTING DIRECTOR

A Brief Overview

The Lighting Director will assist in all areas of lighting and visual production for venue events. The Lighting Director will serve as the main point of contact for shows, communicating with staff, vendors, security and artist management. Additionally, the position is responsible for coordinating and advancing production needs and requirements for all shows, and oversees all stage and technical needs including lighting, A/V, equipment and venue maintenance.

What you will do

  • Responsible for set up, operation and maintenance of venue lighting system.
  • Operate lights during shows configuring color and tone to ensure artist's vision and mood are achieved.
  • Serve as back-up for PA system and audio techs.
  • Responsible for set up, operation and maintenance of house lighting system.
  • Venue maintenance including lighting, stage and equipment.
  • Responsible for set up and break down of equipment on stage.

Education Qualifications

  • High School Diploma or its equivalency (BA/BS Degree Preferred) (Bachelor of Arts/Sciences Degree Preferred)

Experience Qualifications

  • 4-6 years Related work experience

Skills and Abilities

  • Ability to operate light and plan for live production events
  • Working knowledge of stand tools and equipment of the trade
  • Ability to maintain effective working relationships
  • Strong listening and verbal communication skills
  • Computer literate and proficient in MS Office Professional Suite (Outlook, Excel, Word)
  • Able to work various hours: nights, weekends, and holidays as required
  • Experience with music industry preferred
  • Proficient in programming the MA Grandma 2 Light lighting console

Qualifications

  • High School Diploma or its equivalency (BA/BS Degree Preferred) (Bachelor of Arts/Sciences Degree Preferred)
  • 4-6 years Related work experience
  • Ability to operate light and plan for live production events
  • Working knowledge of stand tools and equipment of the trade
  • Ability to maintain effective working relationships
  • Strong listening and verbal communication skills
  • Computer literate and proficient in MS Office Professional Suite (Outlook, Excel, Word)
  • Able to work various hours: nights, weekends, and holidays as required
  • Experience with music industry preferred
  • Proficient in programming the MA Grandma 2 Light lighting console

2. STAGEHAND

SUMMARY

The Stagehand is responsible for performing all setup before, during, and after events which includes, but is not limited to, assembling and disassembling production equipment on stage. In addition, the Stagehand will work closely with and assist carpenters with scenery build, installation, video, sound, and light production.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Responsible for assembling and setting up at the beginning of the scene (i.e., props, microphones, musical instruments, scenery, etc.), disassembling and removing equipment at the end of the scene in addition to cleaning up the stage and backstage area after performances.
  • Load and unload equipment from trucks and set up equipment according to stage design while ensuring safety requirements are met.
  • Assist carpenters with scenery build and installation of stage maintenance, construct and paint set pieces, move, and rearrange furniture.
  • Work closely with electricians and lighting assistants with maintenance of video, sound, and light production.
  • Ensure operations of systems are functioning properly.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • A minimum education level of: High School Diploma or its equivalency
  • A minimum of 1-2 years of related work experience.
  • Previous experience with manual labor preferred.
  • Must be able to take direction and execute instructions accurately.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to lift, push, and pull up to 50 pounds.

Pay Scale: $17.68 - $23.92/hour

Bonus: This position is not eligible for a bonus under the currentbonus plan requirements.

Benefits: This position may be eligible for benefits (ACAqualification).

AEG reserves the right to change or modify the employee's job description whether orally or in writing, at any time during the employment relationship. AEG may require an employee to perform duties outside his/her normal description.

Employer does not offer work visa sponsorship for this position.