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Lighting Stagehand Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Sacramento

Stagehand II

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$51K - $85K/yr

Ability to: - Install, operate and maintain sound and lighting equipment. - Perform stage carpentry ... Stagehand I Two years of experience in stage work including experience in sound and lighting work.

TEC PAYROLL SERVICES, INC.

Stagehand

North Kansas City, MO · On-site

$16.25 - $21.50/hr

Moving, setting up, and testing lighting, sound, props, and other equipment according to set ... Stagehand Requirements: High school diploma. A 2 or 4-year degree in a relevant discipline may be ...

M&M Productions USA

Stagehand

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$20/hr

General Stagehand M&M Productions USA is looking for general stagehands to help support live events ... Setup and tear down lighting, sound and projection equipment. * Buildstaging. * Setup, position and ...

Alliance Workforce

Stagehand

Orlando, FL

$18/hr

Gig-Based Event Work • Assist with the setup and breakdown of stages, PA systems, lighting, and ... stagehand, event production, concert setup, warehouse, production, or general labor experience ...

Global Arts Live

Stagehand

Cambridge, MA

$60K/yr

STAGEHAND Global Arts Live + The Platform Department: Production & Technical Services Reports To ... Hang, focus, and circuit stage lighting fixtures as directed by the Head Electrician * Assist with ...

Tribune Media

Stagehand (PT)

New York, NY

$41.78/hr

E local 1 represented stagehand to work within a fast-paced News/Production content creation ... Operate lighting board * Responsible for hanging show backdrops, building stage risers * Assist in ...

Global Arts Live

Stagehand

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$60K/yr

STAGEHAND Global Arts Live + The Platform Department: Production & Technical Services Reports To ... Hang, focus, and circuit stage lighting fixtures as directed by the Head Electrician * Assist with ...

Nexstar Media Group

Stagehand (PT)

New York, NY · On-site

$41.78/hr

E local 1 represented stagehand to work within a fast-paced News/Production content creation ... Operate lighting board * Responsible for hanging show backdrops, building stage risers * Assist in ...

WOWK-TV

Stagehand (PT)

New York, NY · On-site

$41.78/hr

E local 1 represented stagehand to work within a fast-paced News/Production content creation ... Operate lighting board * Responsible for hanging show backdrops, building stage risers * Assist in ...

Global Arts Live

Stagehand

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$60K/yr

STAGEHAND Global Arts Live + The Platform Department: Production & Technical Services Reports To ... Hang, focus, and circuit stage lighting fixtures as directed by the Head Electrician * Assist with ...

Global Arts Live

Stagehand

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$60K/yr

STAGEHAND Global Arts Live + The Platform Department: Production & Technical Services Reports To ... lighting fixtures as directed by the Head Electrician Assist with the installation and ...

The City of Elkhart

Part Time Stagehand

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$14.13/hr

Stagehand DIVISION: Lerner Theatre STATUS: Part-Time CATEGORY: Hourly, $14.13 FLSA: Non-exempt ... Operate lighting, sound, and projection systems during performances and events. PERSONAL WORK ...

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Lighting Stagehand information

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How much do lighting stagehand jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for lighting stagehand in the United States is $19.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get into theatre lighting?

To become a theatre lighting stagehand, gain experience through entry-level positions or apprenticeships, and develop skills in operating lighting equipment and understanding lighting design. Familiarity with tools like DMX controllers and safety procedures is essential, and some roles may require relevant certifications or technical training.

What are Lighting Stagehands?

Lighting Stagehands are technical crew members responsible for setting up, operating, and dismantling lighting equipment for live events, concerts, theater performances, and other productions. They work under the direction of the lighting designer or lighting director to ensure the correct placement, focus, and functioning of lights. Their duties may include installing lighting rigs, running cables, performing maintenance, and assisting with special effects. Lighting Stagehands play a crucial role in creating the desired visual atmosphere for a show, often working long or irregular hours, including nights and weekends.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lighting Stagehand, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lighting Stagehand, you need a good understanding of lighting equipment, stage terminology, and basic electrical safety, often supported by relevant technical training or experience. Familiarity with lighting consoles, DMX control systems, and rigging hardware is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills for working efficiently under time constraints and with diverse crews. These skills ensure safe, reliable, and visually effective lighting setups that contribute to successful live performances or events.

How much do lighting techs get paid?

Lighting stagehands typically earn an hourly wage ranging from $15 to $30, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the production. Entry-level positions may pay less, while experienced technicians working on large events or with specialized skills can earn higher rates, often supplemented by overtime or union benefits.

How much do lighting people get paid?

Lighting stagehands typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with experienced professionals or those working on large productions earning higher wages. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and the complexity of the production, and many work on a freelance or contract basis. Certifications in lighting technology and familiarity with industry-standard equipment can also influence pay rates.

What are the positions of stage lighting called?

Stage lighting positions are typically called lighting designer, lighting technician, lighting operator, and lighting programmer. These roles involve planning, setting up, operating, and programming lighting equipment to achieve the desired visual effects during a performance. Knowledge of lighting fixtures, control consoles, and safety procedures is essential for stage lighting professionals.

What is the difference between Lighting Stagehand vs Audio Technician?

AspectLighting StagehandAudio Technician
CredentialsNone required, but technical training helpfulAudio certifications or training often preferred
Work EnvironmentOn stage, backstage, or in lighting booths during eventsSound booths, stage, or live event venues
Industry UsageCommon in live performances, concerts, theaterUsed in concerts, theater, broadcasting

Lighting Stagehands and Audio Technicians both work in live event environments, supporting different technical aspects. While Lighting Stagehands focus on setting up and operating lighting equipment, Audio Technicians handle sound systems and audio quality. Both roles require technical skills and are essential for successful productions, often working together behind the scenes to ensure seamless performances.

What are some typical challenges faced by a Lighting Stagehand during live events?

Lighting Stagehands often work under tight time constraints and must adapt quickly to last-minute changes in lighting cues or equipment setup. The role requires physical stamina, as it involves lifting, climbing, and working in various environments, sometimes in low light or at heights. Effective communication with lighting designers, electricians, and other crew members is essential to ensure cues are executed smoothly and safely. Flexibility and problem-solving skills are key, as unexpected technical issues or schedule changes can arise during rehearsals or performances.
More about Lighting Stagehand jobs
What cities are hiring for Lighting Stagehand jobs? Cities with the most Lighting Stagehand job openings:
What states have the most Lighting Stagehand jobs? States with the most job openings for Lighting Stagehand jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Lighting Stagehand jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lighting Stagehand jobs are:
Lighting Stagehand jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lighting Stagehand job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,374 per year, or $19.9 per hour.
Stagehand

Stagehand

The Grosse Pointe Public School System

Grosse Pointe, MI • On-site

$12.48 - $16.72/hr

Other

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

OVERVIEW

 

Although a stagehand's daily duties and responsibilities will vary depending on event, below is a set of core tasks that are generally expected.  Your supervisor may require additional duties.  

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

     

Set Management

 

One of the most common tasks of a stagehand involves managing the set. Depending who is performing - such as a theatre company or a band - the stagehand needs to know exactly what set equipment the performers need and where to place it on the stage. In between sets, the stagehand is responsible for making adjustments to the sets, as well as breaking down the equipment after the show.

 

Sound Assistance

 

Although there may be sound technicians in charge of the sound, stagehands typically assist as needed. For example, they ensure that equipment is plugged into the correct sources, help set up monitors, and assist the sound manager with sound levels.

 

Lighting

 

Assembling support structures, attaching lights, running electrical cords, and adjusting the lights as needed are all core tasks for a stagehand. Although large productions may have a lighting manager, for smaller productions, a stagehand may be solely responsible for the lighting.

 

Assisting Performers

 

Performers may need assistance with receiving their costumes or changing into difficult costume pieces. They may also need stagehands to bring them special props or track down other items they need.

 

Signage

 

Signage is an important part of any production, and a stagehand is often tasked with this responsibility. Stagehands hang banners, update marquees, and handle other signage within a venue.

 

Waste Removal

 

As part of stage maintenance, the stagehand may need to remove any trash in waste containers as well as sweep the stage floor in between shows. 

 

Working Environment

 

The usual and customary methods of performing the job's functions require the following physical demands:

 

  • lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling

  • climbing and balancing

  • stooping, kneeling, crouching, and/or crawling

  • and significant fine finger dexterity

 

Generally, the job requires 20% sitting, 40% walking, and 40% standing.  One may be exposed to dust and other allergens present in a typical construction and/or performing arts build site. Additionally one will be exposed to various lighting conditions, including darkened walkways and stairwells.
Education/Experience

 

High School Diploma or GED Equivalent.

 

Work Schedule

 

12 Month position
Must be able to work a flexible schedule including evenings and weekends when needed

 

Pay

 

$12.48 /hr - $16.72/hr D.O.E. 



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