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Stage Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Stage Hand

Las Vegas, NV

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

Set up Digital Audio Console and ensure audio system is operational when the audio engineer is not present. * Ensure the stage and green room are clean and show ready. Show * Operate lighting console ...

Quality Stage Developer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$46.75 - $61.25/hr

... software engineering, and systems integration. www.tekwissen.com Required: Resource will be ... Quality Stage tool set according to the business rules and requirements defined.. Additional ...

Founding Recruiter

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$170K - $210K/yr

Full-spectrum recruiting - end-to-end ownership across Engineering and GTM, with a heavy center of gravity on scaling early-stage engineering teams fast. Senior engineers, ML specialists ...

Product Engineer

$100K - $200K/yr

Have been a founder, seed-stage engineering hire, or have launched your own project before. * You have strong product sense and can prove it. * Have experience working with LLMs and agentic workflows.

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Stage Engineering information

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$10

$57

$130

How much do stage engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for stage engineering in the United States is $57.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49.04 and $62.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Stage Engineer, you need a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, technical theater knowledge, and typically a relevant degree or vocational training. Familiarity with stage automation systems, rigging equipment, CAD software, and safety certifications like OSHA are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and attention to detail are essential soft skills for managing complex technical setups and collaborating with production teams. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and seamless execution of live performances and events.

What are some typical challenges faced by stage engineers during live productions, and how can these be managed effectively?

Stage engineers often encounter challenges such as last-minute technical issues, unexpected changes in production requirements, and coordinating with multiple departments under tight timelines. To manage these effectively, it's important to maintain clear communication with the production team, conduct thorough pre-show checks, and have contingency plans for common technical problems. Building strong relationships with lighting, sound, and rigging teams also helps ensure a smooth workflow and quick problem-solving during live events.

What is stage engineering?

Stage engineering refers to the design, construction, and operation of the mechanical systems and equipment used in theaters and performance venues. This includes rigging, stage lifts, turntables, fly systems, and automated machinery that help move scenery, lighting, and sometimes performers safely and efficiently. Stage engineers work closely with production teams to ensure that technical elements function smoothly and meet creative requirements. Their expertise is crucial for bringing complex stage productions to life and ensuring safety during performances.

What is the difference between Stage Engineering vs Lighting Design?

AspectStage EngineeringLighting Design
CredentialsTechnical certifications, engineering degreesDesign certifications, lighting-specific training
Work EnvironmentTechnical setup, equipment installation, safety protocolsCreative design, visual planning, software use
Industry UsageEvent venues, theaters, production companiesTheaters, concerts, broadcast productions

Stage Engineering focuses on the technical setup, safety, and operation of stage equipment and structures, ensuring the physical aspects of a production are safe and functional. Lighting Design emphasizes the artistic and visual aspects of lighting, creating mood and atmosphere through lighting plans and effects. Both roles are essential in production but differ in their primary focus and skill sets.

More about Stage Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Stage Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Stage Engineering job openings:
Infographic showing various Stage Engineering job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,893 per year, or $57.6 per hour.

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

SUMMARY: 

The Stage Hand works setting up a variety of equipment, such as wedge monitors, IEM systems, microphones, and lighting/sound consoles. Responsible for setting up stage equipment for events and concerts. Required to connect cables, speakers, microphones, mixing boards and other related equipment. They operate lighting consoles during nightly shows and strike all equipment at the end of the show. They are responsible to report equipment problems.
 

This position is a combination of Stage Hand, L2 and A3 and is an excellent learning opportunity for the right individual.

Pre show

  • Open Stage including gates, ramp door and hatch doors.
  • Set up and pin all microphones required for show.
  • Set up all wedge monitors / IEM systems.
  • Set up wireless microphones when needed.
  • Ensure that the proper input patch and monitor patch is accurately set.
  • Ensure correct microphone placement.
  • Set up digital lighting console and ensure all lighting is operational.
  • Set up Digital Audio Console and ensure audio system is operational when the audio engineer is not present.
  • Ensure the stage and green room are clean and show ready.

Show

  • Operate lighting console during band and some concert performances.
  • Troubleshoot and report any stage, lighting or audio issues that may occur.
  • Assist audio engineer with tasks during show when needed.
  • Maintain a watch over the stage and surrounding area during performances to identify and report band and or crowd issues.
  • Stay in radio contact at all times.

Post Show

  • Power down and store lighting console.
  • Disconnect all microphones, cables, monitors and power drops and neatly store them away in their proper location.
  • Clean stage, green room and surrounding area.
  • Visually inspect stage and surrounding area and report any issues. 
  • Assist audio engineer if needed.
  • Close and lock all stage doors as well as the gates surrounding the stage.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Minimum 1-year experience as a stage hand in a professional live entertainment venue. 
  • Knowledge of microphone types and usages.
  • Strong Organizational and time management skills with the ability to follow through on instructions without supervision.
  • Ability to multitask, handle frequent interruption and maintain a high level of productivity.
  • Ability to adapt to changing situations in a calm and professional manner. 
  • Ability to learn new technical skills quickly.
  • Strong customer service skills and professional manner to successfully interact with a diverse group of performers of various skill levels. 
  • Positive, approachable attitude, open mindedness and the ability to collaborate. 
  • Able to work under pressure and adhere to strict deadlines, show start and stop times.
  • Able to work long hours, nights weekends and holidays Physical, Mental and Environmental Demands.
  • Ability to safely work many hours outside in extreme heat and cold conditions.
  • Ability to work varying shifts and overtime as needed.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. routinely.
  • Ability to stand, sit, lay, reach, bend, lift, push, pull, drive and maintain focus for sustained periods of time.

All candidates are required to pass a pre-employment drug test and background investigation.  

We offer a competitive benefit package including:  medical, dental, vision, 401(k), PTO, Employee Referral Program and Education Reimbursement.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employers and value diversity in our company.  We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientations, age, marital status, veterans or disability status.