ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Backstage Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsBackstage JobsBackstage Jobs in Boston, MA

Backstage information

See Boston, MA salary details

$10

$26

$53

How much do backstage jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for backstage in Boston, MA is $26.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.73 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Boston, MA?

The most popular types of Backstage jobs in Boston, MA are:

What job categories do people searching Backstage jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Backstage jobs in Boston, MA are:

What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Backstage jobs?

Cities near Boston, MA with the most Backstage job openings:

Backstage jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backstage job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 35% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,580 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Berklee Theater Arts Collaborative (BTAC) Stage Manager

Berklee

Boston, MA • On-site

$17.51/hr

Part-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

In order to participate in Berklee Student Employment, a student must fulfill the following requirements:

  • Current student at Berklee College of Music or Boston Conservatory at Berklee.

  • Enrolled at least half-time in a degree, diploma, or certificate-seeking undergraduate or graduate program. Summer is the only semester in which a student can maintain employment without being enrolled. In this case, the student must be pre-registered for the upcoming fall semester. This exception does not apply to fall or spring semesters.

  • Have a valid United States Social Security Number (SSN).

  • Remain in "valid" Visa status as applicable.

  • A minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA. Students in their first semester can work, even though they do not have an official GPA until the completion of their first semester.

  • Federal Work Study student may apply.

  • In good disciplinary standing.

  • Must be located in the U.S.

For complete program details, please go to our website:www.berklee.edu/se.The Stage Manager supports the class faculty in the scheduling and running of the class and rehearsals. The Stage Manager will assist in tracking script/running order changes and staging. The Stage Manager will assist the faculty in coordinating prop, costume, makeup, and set/lighting design plots developed by the students, and will also call cues during the show, assisted by two Assistant Stage Managers (students in the class). This is a challenging position coordinating 25 performers, an 18-piece orchestra, and a small tech team, along with many streams of information. Maintaining communication, information, and schedules is foremost. Ability to work independently and with attention to detail is crucial. The Stage Manager will become familiar with all aspects of mounting a major concert on the BPC stage.
The schedule is typically 4 hours/week plus some weekend rehearsals and one tech, along with outside organizational time. Hours are capped at a total of 70 for the semester, and the work schedule will be adjusted to keep within that total. The Stage Manager must follow Berklee's Covid-19 protocols.Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Pre-Class

    • Create a Contact Sheet

    • Create a Rehearsal Schedule w/ the Director

    • Get the Ground Plan and Dimensions of the Performance Space

    • Tape Out Ground Plan, To Scale, in Rehearsal Space

    • Distribute Rehearsal Schedule

    • Prepare and Print YOUR Rehearsal Script

    • Print Company's Scripts

  • Rehearsal Process

    • Distribute Daily Rehearsal Calls

    • Call Break

    • 5 Minute Break AFTER 55 Minutes OR

    • 10 Minute Break AFTER 80 Minutes

    • Record Blocking Notes

    • Notate Script/Score Changes

    • Help Distribute Script/Score Changes

    • Assist with creating Props List

    • Assist with Create Costume List

    • Record Prop Tracking

    • Coordinate and help Facilitate Communication within the Design Team

    • Take notes each rehearsal and Send Rehearsal Reports

  • Tech Process

    • Create and Distribute Preset Lists for Backstage

    • Create and Distribute Run Sheets for Backstage

    • Manage Backstage Activity, likely facilitating backstage

    • Organize Backstage Traffic

    • Find Solutions to Potential Safety Problems (Glow Tape on Dark Pieces, etc.)

    • Continue Sending Rehearsal Reports

    • Move Scenery or Props

    • Possibly Operate Light, Sound, AV, or Automation boards

    • Have regular meetings with the director and music director debriefing about rehearsals

  • Performances

    • help facilitate the performances

Required skills and knowledge:

Ability to lift 20+ lbs, prior stage management experience or education equivalent

Required application Materials:

Resume & Cover Letter

Hourly Rate: $17.51

Hiring Manager: Rene Pfister

Apply