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Stage Manager Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Faculty Rank or Job Title Stage Properties Manager Job Category: Administrative (exempt/non-exempt) Department School of Fine and Performing Arts EEO number: 26P182 Position FTE 100% Minimum Annual ...

Stagehand - Bogart's

Cincinnati, OH

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

Ensure that members of the band(s) and visiting crew(s) have required items needed to perform * Assist lighting & audio crew as directed by Stage Manager or Production Manager * Spotlight operation ...

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

... stage crew and personnel. Lifting and physical work are required. * Must possess a basic ... Ability to communicate clearly and consistently with management, supervisors and colleagues both ...

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Stage Manager information

See Ohio salary details

$12

$22

$42

How much do stage manager jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for stage manager in Ohio is $22.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $24.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Stage Manager, you need strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, and a solid background in theater production, often supported by a degree in theater or related experience. Familiarity with production management software, cueing systems, and scheduling tools is essential for coordinating complex performances. Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help manage cast, crew, and unforeseen challenges. These competencies ensure smooth operations, timely performances, and the overall success of live productions.

What is a stage manager's salary?

The salary of a stage manager varies depending on experience, location, and the type of production, but typically ranges from $30,000 to $80,000 annually. Entry-level stage managers may earn lower wages, while those with extensive experience or working on large productions can earn higher salaries, often supplemented by benefits and overtime pay. Many stage managers also develop skills in communication, organization, and technical knowledge to advance their careers.

What is the difference between Stage Manager vs Production Assistant?

AspectStage ManagerProduction Assistant
CredentialsExperience in theater or live events, often with technical knowledgeEntry-level, may require basic knowledge of production processes
Work EnvironmentOn-stage, backstage, coordinating rehearsals and performancesAssist with various tasks across departments, often in office or on-site
Industry UsageCommonly found in theater, live events, TV, and filmUsed across film, TV, theater, and event production

The main difference is that a Stage Manager oversees the entire production process, ensuring smooth operations during performances, while a Production Assistant provides support across departments, handling various tasks to assist the production team. The Stage Manager has more responsibility for coordination and communication, whereas the Production Assistant focuses on assisting with specific tasks.

What Does a Stage Manager Do?

As a stage manager, your job is to support the director of theater performance and ensure the production runs as smoothly as possible. Your duties include keeping track of ordered changes during a rehearsal, helping actors memorize their roles, and running the production during a full show. You may also schedule rehearsals, call out cues, and coordinate the stage crew. Other responsibilities include serving as the primary point of contact for designers and set builders, ensuring props and furnishings are available, and recording the various cues for the performance in a master copy of the script.

What qualifications does a stage manager need?

A stage manager typically needs strong organizational and communication skills, experience in theater or production environments, and knowledge of stage operations and safety protocols. Many employers prefer candidates with a background in theater, production management, or related fields, and some roles may require certifications in safety or first aid. Proficiency with scheduling tools and the ability to coordinate between different departments are also important.

What does a stage manager do?

A stage manager is responsible for coordinating all aspects of a theatrical production to ensure everything runs smoothly. They serve as a central communication hub between the director, cast, crew, and designers, managing rehearsals, scheduling, and technical cues. During performances, the stage manager calls lighting, sound, and set changes, ensuring the show is executed as planned. Their organizational skills and attention to detail help maintain consistency and safety throughout the production process.

How to become a stage manager with no experience?

To become a stage manager with no experience, start by volunteering or assisting on local productions to gain hands-on knowledge of stage operations and communication. Developing organizational skills, learning industry tools like QLab or MS Office, and pursuing relevant training or workshops can also help build your qualifications for entry-level roles.

What are some common challenges stage managers face during live productions, and how can they effectively address them?

Stage managers frequently encounter challenges such as last-minute changes to scripts or cues, coordinating large teams with diverse responsibilities, and ensuring smooth communication between cast, crew, and directors. To address these, stage managers must stay organized, maintain clear and timely communication channels, and be adaptable under pressure. Building strong relationships with team members and having detailed contingency plans in place are also key to effectively resolving issues as they arise during live performances.

What do you do as a stage manager?

A stage manager coordinates all aspects of a theatrical or live performance production, including scheduling rehearsals, communicating between cast and crew, and ensuring the show runs smoothly. They often use tools like scripts and call sheets and need strong organizational and communication skills. The role typically requires attention to detail and the ability to handle multiple tasks under tight deadlines.
What are the most commonly searched types of Stage jobs in Ohio? The most popular types of Stage jobs in Ohio are:
What are popular job titles related to Stage Manager jobs in Ohio? For Stage Manager jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Stage Manager jobs in Ohio look for? The top searched job categories for Stage Manager jobs in Ohio are:
What cities in Ohio are hiring for Stage Manager jobs? Cities in Ohio with the most Stage Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Stage Manager job openings in Ohio as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 84% In-person, 8% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,505 per year, or $22.4 per hour.
Stage Properties Manager

Stage Properties Manager

Wright State University

Dayton, OH • On-site

$55K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Wright State University rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

586th of 612 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Information
Position Information (Default Section)
EEO Statement
Wright State University is an equal opportunity employer.
Faculty Rank or Job Title
Stage Properties Manager
Job Category:
Administrative (exempt/non-exempt)
Department
School of Fine and Performing Arts
EEO number:
26P182
Position FTE
100%
Minimum Annual Salary
$55,000
Salary Band:
UC S04
Job Summary/Basic Function:
The Wright State Theatre area in the School of Fine and Performing Arts is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented professional to serve as Theatre Properties Master and join our collaborative faculty, staff, and student production community. Our production program supports a full season of theatrical works that provide students with hands-on, professional-level training in design, technology, and production practices.
We are seeking a colleague who can oversee the creation, acquisition, and management of all theatrical properties in support of departmental productions. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong organizational and budgeting skills, the ability to collaborate effectively with directors, designers, stage managers, and technical staff, and a commitment to mentoring students in safe, efficient, and industry-standard prop practices.
Join us in supporting high-quality theatrical storytelling in an educational environment where craftsmanship, collaboration, and student learning are central to the production process.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree plus five years of tested experience specific to performing arts, or a Master's degree (MFA preferred) in Theatre, Technical Production, or a related field plus three years of experience.
Preferred Qualifications
Essential Functions and percent of time:
  • 40% - Run and maintain the Prop Shop, including building, sourcing, purchasing, or renting props; developing prop lists through script analysis; maintaining detailed budgets; and managing a consistently updated and organized prop inventory.
  • 15% - Student supervision and mentoring, including training, overseeing, and supporting student workers and Theatre Properties majors.
  • 30% - Assist productions, including coordinating prop plans for load-in, rehearsals, run, and strike; attending production meetings; and ensuring safe and appropriate prop use during rehearsals and performances.
  • 10% - Collaboration and service, working with Theatre Design and Production faculty and staff on operational planning, communication, and continuous improvement of the properties area.
  • 5% - teach two (2) courses per year

Essential Functions and percent of time (cont'd):
Non-Essential Functions and percent of time:
Working Conditions
To preserve the safety and security of the campus community and to maintain the integrity of university operations, it is the policy of Wright State University making an employment offer contingent on various background checks, such as a criminal record, credit history when job related and/or education verifications. Additionally, an administrative review shall be conducted whenever the university learns that an employee is charged with or convicted of a crime (except for minor vehicle violations). Frequently asked questions related to background checks may be found on the Human resources website at http://www.wright.edu/human-resources.
Effective July 1, 2017, per Policy 7230 Wright State University is tobacco-free. Tobacco use, including the sale, advertising sampling and distribution of tobacco products and tobacco related items is prohibited in all university facilities, on all university owned or leased grounds, university owned or operated residence halls and apartments, and at all university sponsored events regardless of location. Tobacco use is also prohibited in all university vehicles or on any equipment owned, leased or operated by Wright State University. This policy applies to anyone on campus including students, faculty, staff, visitors, consultants, vendors, patients, volunteers, and contractor employees.
Special Instructions to Applicants
Qualified applicants should submit a portfolio showcasing their experience in stage properties, including examples of prop design, construction, sourcing, and onstage implementation. Please include detailed descriptions of your role in each project and attach under "Other Document 1".
Posting Date
04/28/2026
First Consideration Date:
Closing Date
Open Until Filled
Yes

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