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Stage Assistant Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

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 with build, load in and load out of our productions. Individuals on this list are scheduled on an as ...

Emerson College

Emerson Stage Overhire

Boston, MA

$27/hr

Emerson Stage maintains an overhire list of experienced freelance theatre technicians to assist with build, load in and load out of our productions. Individuals on this list are scheduled on an as ...

Berklee

Student Assistant Stage Manager

Boston, MA · On-site

$17.51/hr

Serve as an Assistant to the Stage Manager for the entire process of a main stage production, including rehearsals, technical and dress rehearsals, and performances. Students can work on plays ...

Emerson College

Overhire Stage Hand

Boston, MA · On-site

$27/hr

Stagehands, artisans, and technicians, under the direction of production staff, will assist in ... Individuals interested in Stage Management work or Design/Artisan opportunities should email OAPM ...

Emerson College

Overhire Stage Hand

Boston, MA · On-site

$27/hr

Stagehands, artisans, and technicians, under the direction of production staff, will assist in ... Individuals interested in Stage Management work or Design/Artisan opportunities should email OAPM ...

Stage Karaoke & Studios

Bartender

Boston, MA

... Stage Karaoke's service standards and bar procedures * Having (or developing) strong knowledge of our food & cocktail menu and private room offerings * Mastering our karaoke tech interface to assist ...

AEG Worldwide

Stagehand - Royale

Boston, MA

$19 - $25.25/hr

Load and unload equipment from trucks and set up equipment according to stage design while ensuring safety requirements are met. * Assist carpenters with scenery build and installation of stage ...

Livenation

Stagehand Leader- Paradise Rock Club

Boston, MA · On-site

$19 - $25.25/hr

May assist the Stage Manager with show passes * Maintain and secure House Backline, and supplies * Maintain curtains, drapes, risers and other staging items * Assist audio crew with stands ...

AEG

Stagehand - Royale

Boston, MA · On-site

$19 - $25.25/hr

Load and unload equipment from trucks and set up equipment according to stage design while ensuring safety requirements are met. * Assist carpenters with scenery build and installation of stage ...

Stage Karaoke & Studios

Karaoke DJ

Boston, MA · On-site

$20/hr

Communicate with bartenders and servers (e.g., last call, birthdays, VIP details). * Assist with keeping the stage and booth area clean and organized. * Support management with special events and ...

Stage Karaoke & Studios

Karaoke DJ

Boston, MA

$20/hr

Communicate with bartenders and servers (e.g., last call, birthdays, VIP details). * Assist with keeping the stage and booth area clean and organized. * Support management with special events and ...

AEG Worldwide

Stagehand - Royale

Boston, MA · On-site

$19 - $25.25/hr

Load and unload equipment from trucks and set up equipment according to stage design while ensuring safety requirements are met. * Assist carpenters with scenery build and installation of stage ...

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Stage Assistant information

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How much do stage assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for stage assistant in Boston, MA is $20.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $23.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a stage assistant?

Stage Assistants are support staff who help with the smooth running of live performances, events, or productions. Their duties often include setting up equipment, moving props, assisting performers, and ensuring scenes transition seamlessly. They work closely with stage managers and technical crews to solve problems quickly and maintain safety standards backstage. Stage Assistants play a crucial role in making sure everything happens as planned during a show.

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

To thrive as a Stage Assistant, you need organizational skills, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of stagecraft, often supported by experience in theater or event production. Familiarity with technical tools such as audio/visual equipment, stage management software, and communication systems like headsets is typically required. Reliability, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure smooth backstage operations, support performers and crew, and contribute to the overall success of live productions.

What are some common challenges a stage assistant may encounter during live performances, and how can they prepare for them?

Stage Assistants often face fast-paced environments where unexpected changes, such as last-minute set adjustments or technical issues, can occur. Being able to stay calm under pressure and communicate effectively with the stage manager, performers, and technical crew is essential. Preparation involves familiarizing yourself with each production's specific needs, attending rehearsals, and organizing props and set pieces meticulously. Proactivity and adaptability are key skills that help Stage Assistants ensure smooth transitions and successful performances.

What is the difference between Stage Assistant vs Stage Manager?

AspectStage AssistantStage Manager
ResponsibilitiesSupporting the stage crew, setting up equipment, assisting with scene changesOverseeing all stage operations, coordinating actors and crew, managing rehearsals
Required CredentialsBasic technical knowledge, sometimes relevant certificationsExperience in theater, leadership skills, often certifications in stage management
Work EnvironmentTheater, production setsTheater, backstage, production management
Employer & Industry UsageTheater companies, production housesTheater companies, production organizations

The main difference between a Stage Assistant and a Stage Manager is their level of responsibility. A Stage Assistant supports the technical and logistical aspects of a production, while a Stage Manager oversees the entire stage operation, coordinating all activities to ensure a smooth performance. Both roles are essential, but the Stage Manager holds a leadership position with broader responsibilities.

How to get a job as stage assistant?

To become a stage assistant, gain experience in theater or event production, often through volunteering or entry-level positions. Developing skills in set handling, lighting, and equipment setup, along with good communication and organization, can improve your chances. Some roles may require physical stamina and the ability to work flexible hours during rehearsals and performances.

What are the most commonly searched types of Stage jobs in Boston, MA?

The most popular types of Stage jobs in Boston, MA are:

What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Stage Assistant jobs?

Cities near Boston, MA with the most Stage Assistant job openings:

Stage Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Stage Assistant job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,812 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Emerson Stage Overhire

Emerson College

Boston, MA • On-site

$19 - $25.25/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Join our community and experience Emerson College!
Emerson Stage maintains an overhire list of experienced freelance theatre technicians to assist with build, load in and load out of our productions. Individuals on this list are scheduled on an as-needed basis. Emerson Stage sends out an email to the overhire list when these positions are required for projects, indicating the dates/times of the calls, the production and venue, and the positions open. If available, individuals may reply to the email with their availability and will be selected based on their technical experience to fill the call. Seeking the following positions:
Carpenters
Riggers
Scenic Painters
Props Artisans
Electricians
Sound Technicians
Costume & Wardrobe Technicians
Wig/Hair & Makeup Technicians
Projection Technicians
General Stage Hands
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES
  • Carpenters/Riggers:
    • Support the construction, installation, and strike of scenery; interpret technical build drawings safely and efficiently alongside students in coordination with the Technical Director
    • Assist the Technical Director in managing safe theatrical rigging, fly rail operations, and flying or hung scenic equipment during load-in and load-out

  • Scenic Painters:
    • Paint and finish all scenic elements including priming, texturing, sculpting, and applying scenic details as designed by the Scenic Designer and Charge Artist
    • Assist in periodic upkeep/touch up of painted elements during the run of a production. Inventory and stock items when needed. Assist in the creation of a "touch up kit" for production and maintain a clean and safe work space

  • Props Artisans:
    • Construct, install, and strike properties under the Props Director's guidance; interpret build drawings safely with students using materials such as wood, foam, plastic, and paint

  • Electricians:
    • Assist with the hang, focus, cabling, and circuiting of lighting plots under the supervision of the Production Electrician; support console programming and practical cabling/wiring

  • Sound Technicians:
    • Set up, test, break down, and cable sound systems to execute designers' plots under the guidance of the Production Sound Engineer; maintain audio gear in coordination with the Sound Supervisor, set up microphones/AV systems, and operate mixing consoles during tech and performances

  • Costume & Wardrobe Technicians:
    • Assist with pulling, constructing, and altering costume garments; serve as wardrobe show crew. Maintain costumes throughout production runs. Works closely with the Draper and Costume Shop Manager to complete projects as needed including costume crafts, stitching, and alterations

  • Wig/Hair & Makeup Technicians:
    • Assist in the maintenance and implementation of wig or makeup requirements for productions. Assist with performer wig/hair styling, and theatrical makeup application or education to facilitate the designers intent
    • Serve as show run crew and maintain hair and makeup needs during productions. Ensure that quick changes, including those involving special effects makeup or wigs are achieved in a timely, safe and efficient manner

  • Projection Technicians:
    • Install, test, and break down projection equipment; execute projection plans under the Projection Engineer's guidance, maintain video equipment, program media consoles, and operate projection systems during tech and shows

  • General Stage Hands:
    • Support backstage run operations, including fly rail functions and deck track run crew duties
    • Assist with load-in and strike logistics, seating setups, event prep, and general hospitality
    • Work cross-departmentally as required and run basic light, sound, or video system boards during performances
  • Flexibility to assist cross-departmentally as needed

QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, AND SKILLS
  • Strong working knowledge of theatrical environments, live staging operations, and safety protocols
  • Proficiency in reading and interpreting technical drawings, and safely operating power tools
  • Experience hanging, circuiting, focusing, and programming lighting fixtures (familiarity with ETC EOS software is highly desirable)
  • Experience with AV setup, signal flow, digital console operations (e.g., Yamaha systems), or theatrical A2 practices
  • Stitching skills, garment alterations experience, and experience serving on wardrobe run crews
  • Ability to collaborate effectively, integrate into new teams quickly, and work well under pressure
  • Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills
  • Basic math skills, including geometry, angles, and fractions
  • Basic understanding of rigging, counterweight lineset operations, and automation systems
  • Professional safety certifications (such as OSHA 10-Hour or Aerial Lift training) are highly valued

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends, nights, and extended production shifts
  • Capability to safely lift, carry, and maneuver items weighing 25 to 50 lbs. independently, and up to 75 lbs. with assistance
  • Comfortable working at heights of up to 20 feet on ladders, scaffolding, or motorized personnel lifts; appropriate PPE must be worn as needed
  • Physical stamina to stand, sit, or maintain difficult physical positions for prolonged periods of time
  • Sustained mental stamina, concentration, and acute visual focus during complex technical operations
  • Working conditions feature variable noise and lighting levels (from quiet setup to loud, dark stage environments)

Hourly rates range from $22 - $27 per hour, commensurate with experience.
IN-OFFICE EXPECTATIONS
This position requires an in-person presence on the Boston Campus during the work week.
Grade of Position: T01N
Employment Category: Intermittent
Scheduled Weekly Hours: 20.00
In addition to a competitive salary, Emerson College is committed to the health and well-being of our employees and family members. We offer a generous benefits package to regular staff scheduled to work 20+ hours per week.
Emerson Employment Categories influence work schedules, benefits eligibility, and time off policies. Benefits include outstanding health plans with limited out-of-pocket expenses, dental plans, generous time-off programs, and a 403(b) retirement benefit with a 9% employer contribution once eligible. Additional benefits, such as life and disability coverage as well as commuter offerings, are available.
Please refer to our benefits website for a full list of benefits and eligibility requirements.

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