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Stage Hand Rigger Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

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Stage Hand Rigger information

What is the difference between Stage Hand Rigger vs Stage Hand?

AspectStage Hand RiggerStage Hand
CredentialsMay require rigging certifications or trainingTypically no specialized certifications needed
Work EnvironmentInvolves rigging, lifting, and setting up equipmentAssists with general stage setup and support
Industry UsageCommon in live events, theater, concertsBroader role, includes various stage tasks

The main difference is that a Stage Hand Rigger specializes in rigging and lifting heavy equipment, often requiring specific certifications, while a Stage Hand performs general stage support tasks. Riggers focus on safety and technical setup, whereas Stage Hands handle a wider range of stage duties.

What is a stage hand rigger?

Stage Hand Riggers are professionals responsible for safely setting up, securing, and dismantling stage equipment such as lighting, audio systems, scenery, and rigging structures in theaters, concert venues, and other live event spaces. They work behind the scenes to ensure that all equipment is properly installed and adheres to safety standards. Riggers often operate hoists, pulleys, and other rigging gear to move heavy objects above or around a stage. Their expertise is crucial to the smooth and safe execution of performances and live events.

What challenges do stage hand riggers face during live event setups, and how can they be managed?

Stage Hand Riggers often encounter challenges such as working at heights, handling heavy or awkward equipment, and adapting to last-minute changes in event plans. Effective communication with the technical team and strict adherence to safety protocols are essential for managing these challenges. Additionally, staying organized and being prepared for rapid problem-solving can help ensure smooth setups and breakdowns, even under tight timelines.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a stage hand rigger?

To thrive as a Stage Hand Rigger, you need a thorough understanding of stage rigging principles, safety protocols, and experience with ropes, pulleys, and counterweight systems, often supported by relevant training or certification (such as ETCP). Familiarity with industry-standard rigging hardware, fall protection equipment, and sometimes CAD or rigging design software is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and attention to detail are essential soft skills for ensuring smooth and safe stage operations. These skills and qualifications are crucial for preventing accidents, efficiently supporting live productions, and maintaining the safety of crew and performers.
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Stage Hand Rigger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Stage Hand Rigger job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, and 45% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Automation Specialist

Oregon Shakespeare Festival

Ashland, OR

$29.85/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Now Hiring: Automation Specialist
Department: Production
Reports to: Head of Automation
Status: Full-Time, Non-Exempt, Union
Hourly Rate: $29.85/hr.
Expected Dates: 9/15/2026
Location: Ashland, OR
This position is represented by IATSE Local 154.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Installs, maintains, repairs, and programs automated effects.
  • Models and supports the mission and values of OSF by: a. Demonstrating inclusive behavior and creating an environment of belonging b. Maintaining a safe and anti-racist working environment c. Recognizing micro-aggressions and interrupting othering behaviors
  • Executes research, development, and prototyping for theatrical automated effects.
  • Fabricates, installs, and maintains electrical components such as cables, control boxes, limits, and other electromechanical hardware and devices.
  • Programs and configures drives, controllers, and micro-controllers for stock and custom effects.
  • Creates and integrates custom control circuits and fabricates electrical enclosures.
  • Inspects, maintains, repairs, and adapts automation system infrastructure.
  • Installs automated effects using advanced rigging and architectural anchoring methods.
  • Provides Automation Department technical support during the technical rehearsal process.
  • Collaborates with the creative team throughout the technical rehearsal process to design and program complex coordinated motion profiles.
  • Supports maintaining a status of good standing with ANSI Entertainment Safety Standards within the Automation Department.
  • Assists with the fabrication and installation of automated effects, including welding and metalwork.
  • Transports or arranges for the transportation of automation components to and from the shop and the theaters
  • Works with other production department staff, to plan and execute interdepartmental, show-related projects.
  • Participates in the clean-up of workspaces at the end of the each day

Other Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Attends company, department, shop meetings, and safety trainings as assigned.
  • Engages with OSF patrons
  • Support Marketing and Development efforts.
  • Mentor colleagues as requested
  • Acts as a scene shop carpenter and/or welder and fabricate scenery and/or props as needed.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by scene shop management staff.

Work Experience:

Three years of experience in the fabrication, installation, and maintenance of automated effects and two years prototyping electronics equipment.

Qualifications/Skills:

Knowledge of microprocessors, programming, AC/DC circuits and drives, PLC’s, motor control, and 3-phase/208V electrical power distribution; skill in reading electronic schematics and wiring diagrams; excellent verbal and written communication skills; proficiency in the use of hand and power tools for wiring and soldering automated systems; ability to troubleshoot low-voltage and high-voltage electrical systems; ability to read scaled construction or design drawings; ability to create CAD construction or design drawings in AutoCAD and SolidWorks; excellent PC computer skills; understanding of 3D printing technology; ability to take direction well and work without supervision; work quickly and safely in a fast-paced environment with a high level of cultural competency.

Physical Ability:

Ability to lift and move materials and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds; frequently climb and work from ladders and personnel lifts; regularly squat, crawl and kneel and maintain position while assembling automation; regularly reach above shoulders to assemble automation overhead; occasionally climb 24-foot vertical wall ladder to get to the catwalks above the stage; ability to stand and walk constantly for extended periods of time.

Other Skills, Knowledge, Ability:

Valid Oregon Driver’s License and a good driving record, ability to drive an 18’ box truck, ability to operate a forklift and personnel lifts (OSF provided Training), ability to pass and maintain a clear background check.

Special Hours Requirements:

Standard work week is Monday – Friday. Occasional night-time and weekend hours are required for load-ins, load-outs, technical rehearsal support, and technical show emergencies.

Preferred Qualifications:

Theatrical automation experience and metal fabrication. Proficiency in SolidWorks drafting