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Entry Level Backstage Acting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Backstage Acting information

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$15

$22

$29

How much do entry level backstage acting jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level backstage acting in the United States is $22.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Backstage Acting vs Entry Level Stage Crew?

AspectEntry Level Backstage ActingEntry Level Stage Crew
Required CredentialsMinimal; often no formal education neededMinimal; often no formal education needed
Work EnvironmentOn stage, behind the scenes during performancesBehind the scenes, setting up and managing stage equipment
Employer & Industry UsageTheatre companies, production housesTheatre companies, event production companies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in theatre productionsLearning about backstage roles in theatre

Entry Level Backstage Acting involves performers who work behind the scenes to support theatrical productions, often focusing on acting roles that are less prominent. Entry Level Stage Crew, on the other hand, involves technical staff responsible for setting up, maintaining, and managing stage equipment. Both roles require minimal formal credentials and are essential to theatre productions, but they differ in responsibilities and on-stage presence.

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Backstage Acting jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Backstage Acting job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Backstage Acting jobs? The most popular types of Backstage Acting jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Backstage Acting jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Backstage Acting jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Backstage Acting jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Backstage Acting jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Backstage Acting job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,753 per year, or $22.5 per hour.
Extra Help Stagehand - 50 vacancies

Extra Help Stagehand - 50 vacancies

University of Illinois

Springfield, IL • On-site

$20.07/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Extra Help Stagehand - 50 vacancies
Posting Category:
About UIS: Located in the state capital, the University of Illinois Springfield is one of three members of the University of Illinois system. The University serves more than 4,000 students in 44 graduate and 56 undergraduate programs. You are encouraged to visit the university web page at http://www.uis.edu.
Application deadline: Open Until Filled
Hourly Rate: $20.07 per hour
Summary:
Under direct supervision from the supervisor - responsible for the coordination of necessary work, to perform all necessary work required for the preparation, operation and removal of various event equipment; for the operation of stage lighting equipment; for the operation and maintenance of the counter-balanced fly system and associated pin-rail and pick-line rigging; for the operation and maintenance of sound and lighting systems; for the set-up and moving of temporary show equipment brought to the operating unit; for the installation and removal of theatrical scenery and house curtains within the venues; and for the maintenance, laundry, and repair of costumes, towels and other fabric items including acting as dresser for actors. The work of the rigger specifically does NOT include operation of the counter-balanced fly system, sand-bag/hemp pin-rail system, or simple pick-lines raising items such as cable bundles off of the floor to allow for safe passage underneath by crew and performers.This position will perform all the below duties and responsibilities while maintaining a safe work environment at all times and performing work in a safe manner at all-time including wearing/utilizing all Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) as required by employer.
Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Attendance (paid) at employer-required safety training sessions
  • Load & unload theatrical equipment into and out of vehicles as required including stacking and unstacking of equipment
  • Move theatrical equipment into and out of venue storage areas
  • Perform all work required to operate and maintain the safety, trim, balance, and proper rigging of the counterbalanced fly system and associated winched cables, pin-rail equipment and pick-lines
  • Perform such technical specialties as the splicing of cables and ropes, the use of stage weights and braces, themaintenance and correct use of tie lines and pick lines, the maintenance and repair of curtains, and the periodic inspection of curtains in storage to prevent damage.
  • Operate mechanical systems such as pit-lifts, orchestra shell winches, chain motors, etc. Operating of chain motors does NOT also include functions performed by EXTRA HELP RIGGERS.
  • Operate personnel-lift devices
  • Hang, connect to the dimming system, lamp, focus and color theatrical lighting instruments for general and specific uses
  • Move and place audio gear such as microphones, speakers, monitors, control boards and cable as required
  • Install, remove, operate and reconfigure stage curtains, portable flooring, scenery, props and other theatrical items as required.
  • Sweeping and mopping of stage area as required for safety and proper audience presentation
  • Maintain, move, set up and operate spotlights as required
  • Maintain and operate lighting and audio control systems
  • Install, maintain and operate as needed equipment hung from counter-weighted battens.
  • Setup, maintain (including laundry), repair and place back into storage costumes, wigs and other items worn byperformers including towels and associated fabric items. Also assist performers with putting on and taking off costume items.
  • Perform other duties commonly associated with stage operations as required

  • Minimum Qualifications:
    Basic entry-level knowledge of a back-stage theatrical working environment including terminology & standard operating procedures usually acquired through formal education in the performing arts field or previous volunteer/work experience as a
    stage crew member in a high school, college, community theatre, music club, regional theatre, or professional performance venue.
    Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
    Normal ability to hear, see, speak, smell in a backstage environment which at times can be darkened, crowed, and noisy with multiple hazards
    Ability to move quickly unaided
    Ability to climb stairs, ladders and work at heights.
    Ability to lift and move heavy objects
    Ability to follow detailed or general directions on how to perform tasks.
    Ability to work varying and unusual work schedules
    Ability to follow and comply with employer's safety rules and regulations
    Physical Demands:
  • Standing : Frequently
  • Walking : Frequently
  • Sitting : Rarely
  • Lifting : Frequently
  • Carrying : Frequently
  • Pushing : Frequently
  • Pulling : Frequently
  • Climbing : Occasionally
  • Balancing : Occasionally
  • Stooping : Occasionally
  • Kneeling : Occasionally
  • Crouching : Occasionally
  • Crawling : Occasionally
  • Reaching : Occasionally
  • Handling : Frequently
  • Grasping : Occasionally
  • Feeling : Occasionally
  • Talking : Frequently
  • Hearing : Frequently
  • Repetitive Motions : Frequently
  • Eye/Hand/Foot Coordination : Frequently
  • Taste/Smell : Rarely
  • Performing Manual Tasks : Frequently

  • Employment Policies and other information:
    The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer dedicated to building a community of excellence,equity, and diversity. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment and we welcome applications from qualified individuals of all backgrounds and identities. The University of Illinois System does not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on their real or perceived race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, order of protection status, geneticinformation, marital status, disability, sexual orientation including gender identity, unfavorable discharge from the military or status as a protected veteran and will comply with all federal and state nondiscrimination, equal opportunity and affirmative action laws, orders and regulations. Visit University of Illinois Non-Discrimination Statement
    The University of Illinois System conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer of employment. Convictions are not a bar to employment. Background checks will be performed in compliance with state and federal law.
    The University of Illinois System requires candidates selected for hire to disclose any documented finding of sexual misconduct or sexual harassment and to authorize inquiries to current and former employers regarding findings of sexual misconduct or sexual harassment. For more information, visit Policy on Consideration of Sexual Misconduct in Prior Employment
    As a qualifying federal contractor, the University of Illinois System uses E-Verify to verify employment eligibility
    This position is not eligible for benefits.
    Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position, however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.
    UIS employment in this role is not covered by Social Security, and instead, is covered by the State Universities Retirement System
    1. You do not pay Social Security taxes and your earnings will not be on your Social Security record. (Your record will, however, show your Medicare wages.)
    2. Your pension from the State Universities Retirement System may affect the amount of your:
    • Social Security benefit and
    • Social Security benefit as a spouse

    University of Illinois logo

    About University of Illinois

    Sourced by ZipRecruiter

    The University of Illinois, located in Urbana, Illinois, US, is a prominent entity in the higher education sector. Operating its official functions through its website uillinois.edu, the institution provides a range of educational programs and services. The University was founded in 1867 and has since grown dramatically both in size and reputation. Its core values are embodied in its mission to enhance the lives of its students and citizens in the state, nation, and world through leadership in learning, discovery, engagement, and economic development. The university boasts several notable achievements including producing Nobel laureates and Pulitzer prize winners. It is renowned for its research programs and is known for significant advancements across various fields including engineering, science, and humanities.

    Industry

    Colleges, universities, and professional schools

    Company size

    5,001 - 10,000 Employees

    Headquarters location

    Urbana, IL, US

    Year founded

    1974

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