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Stage Hand Rigger Jobs in Cleveland, OH (NOW HIRING)

... stage management, lighting, electrical, audio, carpentry, rigging, props, costuming, or house ... The work will involve handling lighting and sound equipment, costumes, and the use of hand tools.

Stage Hand Rigger information

See Cleveland, OH salary details

$13

$25

$35

How much do stage hand rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for stage hand rigger in Cleveland, OH is $25.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.40 and $28.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are Stage Hand Riggers?

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 are some common challenges Stage Hand Riggers face during live event setups, and how can these 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Stage Hand Rigger, and why are they important?

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.
What are popular job titles related to Stage Hand Rigger jobs in Cleveland, OH? For Stage Hand Rigger jobs in Cleveland, OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Stage Hand Rigger jobs in Cleveland, OH look for? The top searched job categories for Stage Hand Rigger jobs in Cleveland, OH are:
Infographic showing various Stage Hand Rigger job openings in Cleveland, OH as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,481 per year, or $25.2 per hour.
Theater Technician

Theater Technician

Tri-C

Cleveland, OH • On-site

$18.53/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Theater Technician
Department: Theater
Location: Metropolitan Campus
Reports To: Theater Productions Manager
Recruitment Type: External/Internal
Requisition ID: req7138
Employment Type: Part-Time Support Staff
Union Position: Union
Work Schedule: Shift varies based on events. Requires evenings and weekends.
Number of Openings: 1
Job Description:
SUMMARY
Provides technicalproduction assistance for internal and external clients who use the theatre facilities and event spaces, orfor off-site college events.
DUTIES ANDRESPONSIBILITIES
  • Sets up and strikes lighting, sound, and stage equipment.
  • Operates sound, lighting, recording, and playback equipment for productions.
  • Assists in maintaining lighting, stage equipment, tools, and other machinery and supplies in the theater area.
  • Assists with construction, maintenance, and strike of sets, props, and wardrobes used in productions.
  • Troubleshoots and resolves problems during rehearsals and performances.
  • Performs set changes and other miscellaneous tasks as necessary during production.
  • Assists Theater Technical Director in maintaining organization and cleanliness of theater facility, as required.
  • Serves on the run crew for theater and special events and operates appropriate theatrical equipment.
  • Anticipates and meets all customer needs accurately, professionally, and with a commitment to customer satisfaction.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Additional duties may include:
  • Maintenance of costumes
  • Greeting patrons

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
EDUCATION AND TRAINING/EXPERIENCE
  • High school diploma, GED, or technical certificate in Technical Theater, Audio, lighting or related field.
  • Minimum of one year of equivalent professional work experience or internship in at least one of the following areas of specialization: stage management, lighting, electrical, audio, carpentry, rigging, props, costuming, or house management.
  • Experience with technical theater production process and/or front-of-house operations.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES
  • Proven ability to recognize hazardous situations and recommend/assist with remedy.
  • Experience in dealing with the public with courtesy and diplomacy.
  • Excellent customer service skills.
  • Experience dealing with lastminute changes in a fluid work environment.
  • Possess a positive attitude and the ability to work collaboratively within a group.
  • Ability to work flexible hours including nights, weekends, and travel to alternate campus locations as needed.
  • Ability to lift 75 lbs. with assistance and 25 lbs. unassisted

COMPETENCIES
CRITICALCOMPETENCIES
  • Service Focus
  • Adaptability
  • Communication

VERYIMPORTANT COMPETENCIES
  • Time Utilization
  • Collaboration

IMPORTANTCOMPETENCIES
  • Continuous Improvement
  • Quality of Work

PREFERREDQUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATIONAND EXPERIENCE/TRAINING
  • Bachelor's degree in Technical Theater, Audio, Lighting, or other creative arts areas.

PHYSICALDEMANDS/WORKING CONDITIONS
(The demands described here are representative of those that must bemet by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities toperform the essential functions.)
  • The work is performed in a theater environment.
  • The work is partially performed in an environment with sufficient noise that may cause an employee to shout to be heard above the noise level.
  • The work is partially performed in an environment with conditions that affect the respiratory system, such as fumes, odors, dust, mist, and gases.
  • The work will involve standing, crouching, sitting, crawling, walking, etc. during routine functions of the job.
  • The work will involve handling lighting and sound equipment, costumes, and the use of hand tools.

This is a Part-Time (1199/SEIU) BargainingUnit Position, Grade 06. Part-Time (1199/SEIU) bargaining unit employees atCuyahoga Community College will be considered first for vacant positions.
Target Hiring Rate: Minimum salary $18.53/hr
Special Note: If hired, you must reside in the state of Ohio and be within commuting distance of this work location/campus to respond to onsite work demands upon the employment start date and throughout the duration of your employment with the College, as outlined in 3354:1-40-01.1 Recruitment and Selection Procedure.
Special Instructions to Applicants: During the application process, you may be required to attach a cover letter and/or resume. It is recommended that you have these documents ready to be attached electronically to the online application. This system accepts only MS Word or PDF attachments. Any employment with the College is contingent upon satisfactory completion of a background check and drug screen.
Equal Opportunity Statement: Cuyahoga Community College is committed to attaining excellence through the recruitment and retention of a qualified workforce. Cuyahoga Community College is an equal employment/educational opportunity institution.