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Freelance Stage Crew Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Seminolehardrock

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

This position is based in Orlando, and is a part time freelance position. Nights, holidays ... stage crew and personnel. Lifting and physical work are required. * Must possess a basic ...

Emerson College

Emerson Stage Overhire

Boston, MA · On-site

$19 - $25.25/hr

Emerson Stage maintains an overhire list of experienced freelance theatre technicians to assist ... Serve as show run crew and maintain hair and makeup needs during productions. Ensure that quick ...

Emerson College

Emerson Stage Overhire

Boston, MA · On-site

$27/hr

Emerson Stage maintains an overhire list of experienced freelance theatre technicians to assist ... Serve as show run crew and maintain hair and makeup needs during productions. Ensure that quick ...

Emerson College

Emerson Stage Overhire

Boston, MA

$27/hr

Emerson Stage maintains an overhire list of experienced freelance theatre technicians to assist ... Serve as show run crew and maintain hair and makeup needs during productions. Ensure that quick ...

Emerson College

Overhire Stage Hand

Boston, MA

$27/hr

The Office of the Arts is seeking professional, experienced, and dependable freelance theatrical ... Pay Rates-W2: * $23/hourly - base rate * $26.50/hourly - base operator/run crew positions (sound ...

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How much do freelance stage crew jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance stage crew in the United States is $62.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60.34 and $68.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance stage crew?

Freelance stage crew are professionals who work on a contract or temporary basis to assist with the setup, operation, and teardown of equipment and scenery for live events, such as concerts, theater productions, and conferences. Unlike full-time staff, freelancers are hired per event or project and may work for multiple employers. Their tasks can include handling lighting, sound, rigging, props, and set construction. Freelance stage crew must be flexible, adaptable, and able to work irregular hours, often including nights and weekends. They play a vital role in ensuring that live events run smoothly and safely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance stage crew member?

To thrive as a Freelance Stage Crew member, you need a solid understanding of stagecraft, lighting, sound, and rigging, often gained through hands-on experience or relevant technical training. Familiarity with industry-standard equipment such as lighting consoles, audio boards, and safety gear is crucial, and certifications in rigging or OSHA safety can be advantageous. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication are standout soft skills due to the collaborative and fast-paced nature of live events. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring smooth, safe, and efficient event productions.

What are some typical challenges faced by freelance stage crew members, and how can they be managed?

Freelance stage crew members often encounter challenges such as unpredictable work schedules, last-minute changes, and the need to adapt quickly to different venues and teams. Managing these challenges involves developing strong communication skills, staying organized, and maintaining a flexible attitude. Building a reliable network of industry contacts and proactively seeking feedback can also help freelancers secure repeat gigs and manage the variable nature of the work.

What is the difference between Freelance Stage Crew vs Stage Manager?

AspectFreelance Stage CrewStage Manager
CredentialsNone mandatory; experience preferredOften requires experience and sometimes certifications
Work EnvironmentOn-site at various venues, event-basedOn-site during performances, overseeing entire production
Employer/Industry UsageFreelance, event production, theater companiesTheater, concert venues, production companies
Search/Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, job opportunities, skills neededManaging productions, coordinating crew, overseeing shows

Freelance Stage Crew typically performs specific technical tasks during events or productions without managerial responsibilities. In contrast, a Stage Manager oversees the entire production process, coordinating crew and ensuring smooth performances. Both roles are essential in live entertainment but differ in scope and responsibilities.

How to get a job as freelance stage crew?

To get a job as freelance stage crew, gain experience through entry-level positions or volunteering at local theaters and events. Develop skills in set-up, lighting, and sound, and build a network of contacts in the entertainment industry. Having knowledge of industry-standard tools and certifications can improve your chances of securing freelance work.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Stage Crew jobs?

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Freelance Stage Crew jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Stage Crew job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $130,079 per year, or $62.5 per hour.

Tilles Center Freelance Stagehand

Long Island University

Brookville, NY • On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Long Island University rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

603rd of 621 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Job Details
Job Type
Staff
Salary Range
$22-27 per hour
Start Date
As soon as possible
FLSA Status
Non-exempt
Application Deadline
Oct 01, 2026
Contact
Please submit an online application
Job Description
Position Summary:
The Tilles Center Freelance Stage Hand assists in multiple capacities in an effort to mount events and productions at Tilles Center.
Key Responsibilities:
  • The stage crew performs a wide variety of jobs all of which are related to whatever event is booked at the time.
  • As an active member of the crew, you will assist in the setup (Load In) and Breakdown (Load Out) of performances,
  • preparing the theater for upcoming events (Changeover),
  • prepare the lighting plot (light hang),
  • as well as a variety of other maintenance and show tasks that are required to maintain and run an operational and safe theater.
  • The crew are responsible for all events in multiple venues and spaces throughout the campus.

Education Requirements :
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent.

Q ualification Re quirements:
  • Backstage theater experience preferred.

Working Conditions:
  • Generally indoors, in the theaters, auditoriums and backstage spaces at Tilles Center.
  • Loading and unloading of trucks is conducted outdoors, in the parking lots adjacent to the Tilles Center stages.

Material and Equipment:
  • Basic hand and power tools (screwdriver, wrench). Hand trucks, dollies, ladders, theatrical lighting, sound equipment. Ability to lift 50+ lbs.

About LIU Post
LIU Post campus is a scenic, historic, and scholarly campus that offers a small-school environment with the access and resources of a major metropolitan university. The University's 350+ acre campus is located on the estate of Marjorie Merriweather Post, 27 miles east of New York City on Long Island's Gold Coast. The campus houses the Lewyt College of Veterinary Medicine, the first professional School of Accountancy, an AACSB-accredited Business School, and an award-winning theater program. LIU is home to the world-renowned Tilles Center for the Performing Arts and the Shark Stadium, where supporters gather to cheer on the Sharks' Division I athletic program.
LIU is an equal opportunity employer. LIU is committed to extending equal opportunity in employment to all qualified candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of our academic community. LIU encourages applications from all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender and/or gender identity or expression, marital or parental status, national origin, ethnicity, citizenship status, veteran or military status, age, disability or any other basis protected by applicable local, state or federal laws. Hiring is contingent on eligibility to work in the United States.

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