1

Event Rigging Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Theater Technician

Washington, DC · On-site

$55K - $59K/yr

Work load-ins, rehearsals, events, shows and load-outs with excellence, efficiency, and safety ... Experience with safely operating theatrical rigging equipment and fall protection. * Ability to ...

... unexpected events. * Ability to clean and prepare crane components. * Ability to overhaul and ... Ability to utilize proper rigging equipment. * Perform maintenance and preventative maintenance on ...

... unexpected events. * Ability to clean and prepare crane components. * Ability to overhaul and ... Ability to utilize proper rigging equipment. * Perform maintenance and preventative maintenance on ...

... unexpected events. * Ability to clean and prepare crane components. * Ability to overhaul and ... Ability to utilize proper rigging equipment. * Perform maintenance and preventative maintenance on ...

Carpenter

Mount Vernon, VA · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

... events. Compensation: $23.00-$28.00 /hour dependent upon experience Expected Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 4 ... Assembles and disassembles scaffolding and other rigging, works from heights and other precarious ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Event Rigging information

What is the highest paying rigger job?

The highest paying rigging jobs are often in specialized sectors such as industrial, theatrical, or offshore oil and gas industries, where riggers with advanced certifications and extensive experience can earn six-figure salaries. Roles like offshore rigging supervisor or industrial rigging manager typically command the highest wages due to the complexity and risk involved. Skills in heavy lifting, crane operation, and safety compliance are essential for these high-paying positions.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the field of event rigging, high-earning roles such as senior technical directors or specialized project managers can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, large-scale events, or ownership of a successful business. These roles often require advanced skills, certifications, and the ability to manage complex, high-profile productions. Most event rigging professionals earning this level work in large venues or for major entertainment companies.

How much money do you make rigging?

Event rigging technicians typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the projects. Skilled riggers with certifications and specialized knowledge can earn higher wages, especially for large-scale events or touring productions.

What is event rigging?

Event rigging refers to the process of installing and securing equipment such as lighting, audio systems, video screens, and scenic elements in venues for concerts, conferences, and other events. Rigging professionals use specialized hardware and techniques to safely suspend and support these elements from the venue’s structure. Proper rigging ensures that equipment is safely positioned and that the event runs smoothly while maintaining safety standards for both crew and attendees.

What is the difference between Event Rigging vs Stage Rigging?

AspectEvent RiggingStage Rigging
CertificationsRigging certifications, OSHA safety trainingRigging certifications, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentConcerts, festivals, corporate eventsTheatrical productions, concerts, theater
Industry UsageEvent planning, entertainment industryPerforming arts, theater productions

Event Rigging and Stage Rigging share similar skills and certifications, but they differ mainly in work environment and application. Event Rigging focuses on temporary setups for live events like concerts and festivals, while Stage Rigging is centered on theatrical productions and permanent stage setups. Both roles require safety certifications and experience with rigging equipment, but their specific contexts and environments distinguish them.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Event Rigger, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Event Rigger, you need a solid understanding of physics, mechanical principles, and safety regulations, often supported by relevant training or certifications like Entertainment Technician Certification Program (ETCP). Familiarity with rigging hardware, hoists, motor controllers, and load calculation software is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for ensuring safe and efficient setups. These skills and qualities are vital to prevent accidents, support complex productions, and maintain safety standards in live event environments.

How much do entertainment riggers make?

Entertainment riggers typically earn between $20 and $40 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $80,000 depending on experience, location, and complexity of projects. Skilled riggers with certifications and specialized knowledge of rigging equipment and safety standards tend to earn higher wages.

What are some common challenges faced by event rigging professionals during large-scale productions?

Event rigging professionals often encounter challenges such as meeting tight setup deadlines, adapting to last-minute changes in event layouts, and ensuring all equipment meets strict safety standards. Coordinating with lighting, audio, and stage design teams requires clear communication and flexibility, especially when working in venues with unique structural limitations. Staying current with safety regulations and best practices is essential for managing both the technical and collaborative aspects of the job.
Infographic showing various Event Rigging job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Part Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution.
Theater Technician

$55K - $59K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

THEATER TECHNICIAN
Date:07/28/2025
Location: ONSITE, Washington D.C.
Employment Status: Full time, Exempt
Reports To: Director, World Stage Theater
Salary: $55,000 to $59,000 DOE
* Salary is adjusted for local market rates.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Theater Technician performs the technical support needed for our World Stage Theater productions, working closely with the Theater Production Manager. This position serves in roles for productions including audio, lighting, rigging, projection, stage management, video and streaming. The Theater Technician carries out all duties assigned by the Theater Director and Theater Production Manager.
The Theater Technician is professional, a great communicator, adaptable and detail-oriented to ensure productions are successful and all areas of the World Stage Theater are safe, clean and orderly.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Assist with the successful planning and execution of productions in World Stage Theater and other spaces assigned.
  • Work load-ins, rehearsals, events, shows and load-outs with excellence, efficiency, and safety.
  • Facilitate great communication with all production and event staff including front of house, freelance technicians and labor, facilities staff and security.
  • Troubleshoot technical issues and perform system and equipment maintenance, updates, and repairs as needed.
  • Support the success of client technicians and visiting productions in World Stage Theater.
  • Work safely and maintain safe, clean, and orderly conditions in World Stage Theater.
  • Maintain a positive relationship with all clients, freelance technicians and labor through effective communication and collaboration.
  • Stay up-to-speed with system updates and advancements in production technology and take advantage of opportunities to grow in technical skills.

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS
Knowledge
  • Education: High School Diploma required, Associate's or Bachelor's degree in related major or equivalent experience strongly preferred.
  • Certifications: none required.
  • Years of Experience:
    • Minimum 5 years' experience in a technical role within a theatrical operation.
    • 3-5 years of audio-visual and projection systems experience required.
    • Commercial A/V: at least 1 year preferred.

Skills / Core Competencies
  • Proficient with architectural and theatrical lighting instruments, controls (grandMA, ETC, CueServer) and protocols (DMX, sACN, Art-Net).
  • Proficient with lighting and show control systems (grandMA2 ultra-light, ETC, Medialon) and equipment (Leko, S4 Par, LED, Conventional, Moving lights, etc).
  • Proficient with audio mixing, DSP, recording, amplification, and loudspeaker equipment (Yamaha, QSC, Meyer, others).
  • Proficient with video playback, recording, switching, control, and distribution hardware and software (Sony, Blackmagic, Crestron, ProPresenter, others).
  • Proficient with video monitor and projection equipment (LG, Christie, Panasonic, others).
  • Working knowledge of IT networking hardware and cabling (CAT6, Fiber Optic), especially as implemented in theater applications (e.g. audio, lighting, show control).
  • Proficient with Windows and Mac computers and technical and office applications, including Microsoft office.
  • Able to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.

Abilities / Attributes
  • Experience leading workflow and team members on daily responsibilities, performance, scheduling, and development.
  • Expertise with standard theatrical practices in a live theater environment.
  • Experience with safely operating theatrical rigging equipment and fall protection.
  • Ability to remain calm under pressure and troubleshoot in challenging situations.
  • Ability to train and empower others as well as lead by example in all matters of appearance, work ethic, and conduct.
  • Able to interface with artists, clients, and vendors of all backgrounds.
  • Willing to continually learn and grow as technology changes.
  • Able to work evenings and weekends as needed.
  • Ability to exert up to 50 pounds of force frequently to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects without assistance.
  • Ability to work comfortably at heights with heavy equipment.
  • Ability to sit/squat and bend at the waist.
  • Champion the Museum of the Bible's mission to invite all people to engage with the transformative power of the Bible.
  • As needed, inclusion in official or incidental photographs and videos for MOTB and/or guests.

Pay Range: $55,000 - $59,000 per year