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Event Rigger Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Event Stagehand Oakland

Oakland, CA · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Candidates with prior live event experience and open availability are preferred but we will train ... structures, rigging, and rapidly changing conditions. Communication may occur through spoken ...

Candidates with prior live event experience and open availability are preferred but we will train ... structures, rigging, and rapidly changing conditions. Communication may occur through spoken ...

Event Stagehand Oakland

Oakland, CA · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Candidates with prior live event experience and open availability are preferred but we will train ... structures, rigging, and rapidly changing conditions. Communication may occur through spoken ...

Reliable source of transportation to get to and from event sites in a timely manner * Must ... structures, rigging, and rapidly changing conditions. Communication may occur through spoken ...

Candidates with prior live event experience and open availability are preferred but we will train ... structures, rigging, and rapidly changing conditions. Communication may occur through spoken ...

Theatre Technician

Tracy, CA · On-site

$32.62 - $39.65/hr

Install rigging, lighting, sound equipment and scenery for theatrical, musical and other events. * Operate stage equipment, lighting and sound systems, digital projection equipment and other ...

Reliable source of transportation to get to and from event sites in a timely manner * Must ... structures, rigging, and rapidly changing conditions. Communication may occur through spoken ...

Showing results 21-40

Event Rigger information

See California salary details

$13

$25

$36

How much do event rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for event rigger in California is $25.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.79 and $29.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an event rigger?

Event Riggers are skilled professionals responsible for safely installing, securing, and dismantling equipment such as lighting, audio systems, and stage elements at events and venues. They use specialized tools and follow strict safety protocols to attach equipment to ceilings, trusses, or other structures. Event Riggers play a vital role in ensuring that all suspended elements are securely fastened and meet safety regulations, which helps prevent accidents during concerts, theater productions, conferences, and other large gatherings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an event rigger?

To thrive as an Event Rigger, you need a strong understanding of rigging principles, safety standards, and experience with lifting and securing stage equipment, often supported by relevant certifications like ETCP or OSHA. Proficiency in using hoists, trusses, load calculation software, and personal protective equipment is crucial. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and seamless setup and dismantling of event structures, minimizing risks and ensuring successful events.

What are some common challenges faced by event riggers when working on large-scale productions?

Event Riggers often encounter tight timelines and evolving event requirements, which can make load-in and setup periods particularly challenging. Coordinating safely with lighting, audio, and staging teams in busy, high-traffic environments requires strong communication and problem-solving skills. Additionally, adapting rigging plans to the unique structural and safety constraints of each venue is essential, making flexibility and technical expertise key to success in this role.

What is the difference between Event Rigger vs Stagehand?

AspectEvent RiggerStagehand
CredentialsCertifications in rigging, OSHA safety trainingBasic safety training, sometimes rigging knowledge
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, event venues, outdoor setupsTheater stages, concert venues, live event spaces
Employer & IndustryEvent production companies, rental firmsTheater companies, concert promoters
Common Search & ComparisonEvent Rigger vs Stagehand

While both roles work in live event settings, Event Riggers specialize in installing and securing complex structures and equipment, often requiring rigging certifications. Stagehands assist with various stage setup tasks, including lighting, props, and general support. The main difference lies in rigging expertise and responsibilities, with Event Riggers focusing on safety-critical rigging tasks and Stagehands providing broader stage support.

What are popular job titles related to Event Rigger jobs in California?

For Event Rigger jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Event Rigger jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Event Rigger jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Event Rigger jobs?

Cities in California with the most Event Rigger job openings:

Infographic showing various Event Rigger job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,405 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Production Manager (Live Events)

Emeryville, CA • On-site

$93K - $110K/yr

Other

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Full Time Professional Office - Emeryville, CA, Emeryville, CA, US

4 days ago Requisition ID: 1948

Salary Range: $93,000.00 To $110,000.00 Annually

POSITION PURPOSE:

The Production Manager collaborates closely with Producers, Technical Directors, Coordinators, and Creative teams to translate client objectives and approved creative concepts into executable production plans. This role is responsible for managing production logistics, vendor partnerships, budgets, schedules, and on-site execution while ensuring all elements are delivered safely, on time, and within budget.

The Production Manager serves as a key operational leader throughout pre-production, load-in, live event execution, and dismantle, maintaining alignment across internal teams, vendors, and clients.

This position requires regular work on location throughout the South San Francisco Bay Area, with travel as needed.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Production & Operations
  • Manage all scenic, exhibit, and environmental production elements, including graphics, signage, and physical structures
  • Oversee on-site labor requirements for installation, show operation, and dismantle, ensuring adherence to safety and quality standards
  • Coordinate freight logistics, including shipping schedules, load-in/load-out plans, and on-site material handling
  • Develop and manage detailed production schedules in collaboration with the Technical Director
  • Partner with Technical Directors to coordinate power, lighting, audiovisual, IT, rigging, and heavy equipment requirements
  • Collaborate with Producers to manage assigned budget line items, track expenses, and forecast costs
  • Source, negotiate, and manage vendors, ensuring contractual obligations, timelines, and deliverables are met
  • Maintain accurate production documentation, including vendor quotes, purchase orders, labor calls, and production reports
Client & Stakeholder Collaboration
  • Interface directly with clients, vendors, venues, and internal stakeholders to scope deliverables and manage expectations
  • Proactively identify production risks and implement mitigation strategies
  • Support on-site client engagement to ensure a seamless and professional event experience
Compliance & Safety
  • Ensure compliance with local regulations, venue requirements, and union labor rules
  • Coordinate security and medical resources as required by event scope
  • Promote and enforce best practices related to safety, labor standards, and operational efficiency

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • 5+ years of experience managing production for large-scale live events, trade shows, or experiential installations
  • Proven experience overseeing event load-in and dismantle operations
  • Working knowledge of scenic construction, electrical systems, lighting, AV, IT, and rigging
  • Experience managing union and non-union labor crews
  • Strong understanding of event safety standards and operational best practices
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously under aggressive timelines

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Experience working with retail, technology, or corporate brand clients
  • CAD experience (creation, markup, or management of design files provided by others)
  • Familiarity with production management software, budgeting tools, and scheduling platforms
  • Advanced cross-functional collaboration with creative, technical, and production teams
  • Strong vendor negotiation and relationship management capabilities
  • Risk assessment and contingency planning for live environments
  • Clear client-facing communication and expectation management
  • High level of attention to detail in documentation, schedules, and budgets
  • Ability to lead under pressure during live show conditions
  • Proactive problem-solving and decision-making on-site
  • Understanding of scalable production workflows for multi-city or repeat events

Why Join Us?

At Hartmann Studios, you’ll be part of a passionate team that creates unforgettable experiences. This is your chance to work on a high-profile event, flex your creative and logistical muscles, and collaborate with some of the best in the business.

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