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Stage Hand Audio Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Overhire Stage Hand

Boston, MA ยท On-site

$27/hr

Audio technicians and operators * Wardrobe artisans * Scenic painters * Props carpenters and ... Individuals interested in Stage Management work or Design/Artisan opportunities should email OAPM ...

Audio technicians and operators * Wardrobe artisans * Scenic painters * Props carpenters and ... Individuals interested in Stage Management work or Design/Artisan opportunities should email OAPM ...

Emerson Stage Overhire

Boston, MA ยท On-site

$19 - $25.25/hr

Emerson Stage sends out an email to the overhire list when these positions are required for ... Engineer; maintain audio gear in coordination with the Sound Supervisor, set up microphones/AV ...

Emerson Stage Overhire

Boston, MA

$19 - $25.25/hr

Emerson Stage sends out an email to the overhire list when these positions are required for ... Engineer; maintain audio gear in coordination with the Sound Supervisor, set up microphones/AV ...

Assisting lighting and audio crews as directed by stage manager or production manager * Assisting with maintenance and repair of sound, light and stage equipment * Maintaining and securing house ...

Experience in stage lighting, pro audio systems and basic video systems * Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously * Strong interpersonal communication and organizational skills Physical ...

Production Stagehand (Freelance)

Tewksbury, MA ยท On-site

$18.75 - $25/hr

Working with the different departments onsite to assist on set up and/or strikes ( Audio, Video, Lighting ). * Assist with setting up or taking down Scenic elements, assist with cabling, drape as ...

THE OPPORTUNITY BabsonARTS presents a wide range of programming that includes theater, dance, music ... Ideal candidates will have experience in one or more areas of technical theater and/or stage ...

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Stage Hand Audio Engineer information

See Boston, MA salary details

$32K

$91.8K

$186.3K

How much do stage hand audio engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for stage hand audio engineer in Boston, MA is $91,753.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,300.00 and $122,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Stage Hand Audio Engineer vs Audio Technician?

AspectStage Hand Audio EngineerAudio Technician
CredentialsRelevant certifications, technical trainingTechnical certifications, audio equipment training
Work EnvironmentLive events, concerts, theater productionsRecording studios, broadcast stations, live events
Employer & IndustryEvent companies, concert venues, theatersMedia companies, production houses, broadcast stations
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in live event setupsTechnical audio support and equipment troubleshooting

While both roles involve working with audio equipment, a Stage Hand Audio Engineer primarily assists with live event setups and stage management, focusing on sound reinforcement during performances. An Audio Technician often handles technical support, equipment maintenance, and troubleshooting in various settings like studios or broadcast environments. The roles overlap in technical skills and certifications but differ mainly in work environment and specific responsibilities.

What is a stage hand audio engineer?

A Stage Hand Audio Engineer is a professional responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining audio equipment during live events like concerts, theater performances, and conferences. They assist with tasks such as positioning microphones, connecting sound cables, managing audio levels, and troubleshooting technical issues. In addition to their technical duties, they often work closely with performers, directors, and other crew members to ensure high-quality sound production. This role typically requires both technical knowledge of audio systems and the ability to work efficiently under pressure. Stage Hand Audio Engineers are essential for delivering a seamless and professional live audio experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a stage hand audio engineer?

To thrive as a Stage Hand Audio Engineer, you need a solid understanding of audio engineering principles, signal flow, and live event production, often supported by hands-on experience or relevant certifications such as AVIXA CTS or manufacturer-specific training. Familiarity with soundboards, microphones, digital audio workstations, and audio cabling systems is essential. Strong teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for adapting quickly and ensuring seamless live event execution. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure high-quality sound and smooth technical operations during performances, contributing to the overall success of live events.

What are some common challenges faced by stage hand audio engineers during live events, and how can they be managed?

Stage Hand Audio Engineers often face challenges such as last-minute equipment changes, troubleshooting unexpected technical issues, and working under tight time constraints during live events. These challenges can be managed by staying organized, conducting thorough pre-event sound checks, and maintaining clear communication with the production and technical teams. Flexibility and problem-solving skills are essential, as is having a solid understanding of both the audio equipment and the event's schedule to ensure smooth transitions and high-quality sound throughout the performance.

What job categories do people searching Stage Hand Audio Engineer jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Stage Hand Audio Engineer jobs in Boston, MA are:

Infographic showing various Stage Hand Audio Engineer job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $91,753 per year, or $44.1 per hour.

Overhire Stage Hand

Emerson College

Boston, MA โ€ข On-site

$27/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Join our community and experience Emerson College!
Purpose of this Position:
The Office of the Arts is seeking professional, experienced, and dependable freelance theatrical technicians and artisans to assist in the setup, support, and breakdown of theater and events.
Please read the job description below carefully for further details.
Report To: Office of the Arts Production Technical Supervisors
Direct Staff Reports: None
Student Workers this position supports: None
Job Description
Essential Functions of the Role:
Stagehands, artisans, and technicians, under the direction of production staff, will assist in setting up, supporting, and breaking down theatrical shows and live events, as well as general theater maintenance.
Preference will be given to applicants with experience in any of the following theatrical disciplines:
  • Theatrical electricians and operators
  • Theatrical carpenters, fly rail operators, and riggers
  • Audio technicians and operators
  • Wardrobe artisans
  • Scenic painters
  • Props carpenters and artisans
  • Video technicians and operators
  • A/V specialists and event technicians

How does an Overhire List work?
The Office of the Arts maintains an overhire list of experienced freelance theater/events technicians and artisans to assist with load in, operation, and loading out shows or events. Individuals on this list are employed in a freelance capacity and are scheduled on an as-needed basis.
The Office of the Arts sends out emails to the overhire list when stagehands, technicians, or artisans are required for projects. These emails are frequent between September and June and include positional needs, dates/times of the shifts/calls, and which venue the project work will be happening in. If interested in a call, individuals may reply by email with their availability for the shifts sent, provided they have the technical expertise to fill the call. If selected for the shift, a representative from the production department will respond by asking for confirmation. The overhire must then confirm they are taking the shifts. Preference is given to individuals who can commit to full projects, and the Office of the Arts fills shifts/calls on a first come, first served basis, taking into account the technical needs of the production.
This overhire list has limited space and is refreshed/cycled regularly based on the availability and number of calls worked by individuals on the list. Individuals who are inactive/ do not work shifts with the Office of the Arts for a 6-month period will be removed from the list. Individuals removed from the list are invited to re-apply if and when their availability changes.
Pay Rates-W2:
  • $23/hourly - base rate
  • $26.50/hourly - base operator/run crew positions (sound board op, light board op, flyperson, wardrobe, props, etc.)
  • $27/hourly - base artisan rate (scenic painting, props artisans, hair/makeup, etc.)

Qualifications:
Candidates must:
  • Have a working knowledge of the theatrical and live events production industry
  • Be able to work hours of the call, which may include nights, weekends, and potentially long shifts
  • Take direction well and communicate effectively
  • Have basic experience or familiarity with the tools and supplies of the department they work with.
  • Have excellent time management skills
  • Adapt well within a fast-paced and changing environment
  • Maintain professionalism and represent the Office of the Arts well when interacting with clients and students.
  • Work well within diverse teams with different personalities and experience levels.
  • Be willing to work cross-departmentally if needed.

Ideal candidates would:
  • Have experience in a professional theatre environment that may include the following:
    • Theatrical construction, scenic and prop carpentry
    • Circuiting and focusing lights
    • Knowledge of ETC EOS software
    • Knowledge of Yamaha digital audio consoles
    • Theatrical A2 working practices
    • Understand basic theatrical rigging and counterweight line-set systems and automation
    • Understand signal flow
    • Use power tools in a safe and efficient manner
    • Maintenance, repair, and minor alterations of wardrobe items
  • Be comfortable working at heights
  • Be familiar with general safety practices in a live production environment
  • Have an excellent attitude and a desire to learn.
  • Be proactive and work independently if required

Work Environment and Demands of the position:
Physical Place and Existing Conditions:
Theaters with variable conditions
Intellectual and Mental Concentration for extended periods:
Requires long periods of mental concentration
Requires constant coordination of Mental and Visual Attention:
Yes
Requires the ability to stand or sit for long periods:
Yes
Requires the ability to lift and move objects that are:
50lbs
Requires the ability to move materials:
Yes
Requires working in difficult physical positions and body contortions:
Yes
Additional Considerations:
Currently enrolled undergraduate and graduate students at Emerson College are not permitted to apply for this position. If you are a current student at Emerson, please reach out to the Office of the Arts Production Department at oastaffing@emerson.edu for more information on student employment opportunities.
Individuals interested in Stage Management work or Design/Artisan opportunities should email OAPM@Emerson.edu for more information.
Grade of Position: T01N40
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.
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.