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Stage Rigger Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Stage Technician/Stage Hand We are looking to fill positions for March-July 2026 and the rest of ... Electrics, ETC), Riggers, entry level worker as general hands, and Machine Lift Operators (Fork ...

Stage Technician

Vista, CA

$16.90 - $26.30/hr

Rigging of drops and flying elements. Maintenance of scenic elements and flying pieces. Assists in ... Moonlight Stage Productions is a program of the City of Vista's Recreation and Community Services ...

Theatre Technician

Glendale, CA · On-site

$5.4K - $5.9K/mo

Four years of technical theater/dramatic production work experience in one or more of the following areas: set construction, stage rigging, stage lighting, stage audio, or stage video, including ...

Stage Technician

Vista, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $26.30/hr

Rigging of drops and flying elements. * Maintenance of scenic elements and flying pieces. * Assists ... Moonlight Stage Productions is a program of the City of Vista's Recreation and Community Services ...

The City of Torrance is recruiting for a STAGE MANAGER to join the Cultural Arts Center Theater ... A systems-rigging certification preferred. Performance of the essential duties of this position ...

STAGE MANAGER (AT-WILL)

Torrance, CA · On-site

$25.45 - $28.07/hr

The City of Torrance is recruiting for a STAGE MANAGER to join the Cultural Arts Center Theater ... A systems-rigging certification preferred. Performance of the essential duties of this position ...

... stage rigging and rigs. - Adjusts stage scenery and curtains as necessary for various productions. - Acts as property worker; performs stage carpentry work; builds and dismantles stages, furniture ...

Stagehand II

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$52K - $87K/yr

... stage rigging and rigs. - Adjusts stage scenery and curtains as necessary for various productions. - Acts as property worker; performs stage carpentry work; builds and dismantles stages, furniture ...

Technical Director

La Mirada, CA · On-site

$2.9K - $3.6K/wk

Stage rigging techniques and hardware, set construction techniques, lighting and audio equipment, and techniques; knowledge of safety rules and standard backstage practices pertaining to theatrical ...

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Stage Rigger information

See California salary details

$13

$25

$36

How much do stage rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for stage rigger in California is $25.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.79 and $29.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Stage Rigger vs Lighting Technician?

AspectStage RiggerLighting Technician
CredentialsRigging certifications, OSHA safety trainingLighting certifications, electrical safety training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, theaters, concert venuesTheaters, concert halls, live event venues
Industry UsageEvent production, theater, touringEvent production, theater, touring

While both roles are essential in live event production, a Stage Rigger primarily focuses on installing and securing rigging systems, whereas a Lighting Technician specializes in setting up and operating lighting equipment. Understanding their distinct responsibilities helps clarify their roles in ensuring safe and successful productions.

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

To thrive as a Stage Rigger, you need a solid understanding of rigging principles, safety regulations, and mechanical systems, often supported by relevant certifications like ETCP (Entertainment Technician Certification Program). Familiarity with rigging hardware, lifting equipment, and sometimes computer-aided design (CAD) software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong teamwork are standout soft skills in this field. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and precise installation of stage equipment, which is crucial for successful and hazard-free live events.

How much do riggers earn?

Stage riggers typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $60,000 depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled riggers with certifications and specialized knowledge of rigging equipment and safety protocols tend to earn higher wages.

What are stage riggers?

Stage riggers are professionals responsible for safely installing, operating, and dismantling the equipment used to support lighting, scenery, audio, and other elements in stage productions. They work with ropes, pulleys, motors, and trusses to suspend and move equipment above and around a stage. Stage riggers ensure that all rigging is secure and meets safety standards, often working at significant heights and under tight deadlines. Their work is critical to the success and safety of concerts, theater shows, and other live events.

How much do riggers make a month?

Stage riggers typically earn between $2,000 and $4,000 per month, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the projects. Skilled riggers with certifications and specialized tools may earn higher wages, especially when working on large-scale events or productions.

What is the highest paying rigger job?

The highest paying rigger jobs are often in the entertainment industry, such as theatrical or film riggers, or in industrial settings like oil and gas or construction, where specialized skills and certifications are required. These roles typically offer higher wages due to the complexity, risk, and technical expertise involved.

How to get into stage rigging?

To become a stage rigger, gain experience in theater, construction, or technical production, and learn to operate rigging tools and equipment such as hoists, trusses, and safety gear. Many riggers start as apprentices or stagehands, and obtaining certifications like OSHA safety training can improve job prospects. Practical skills, attention to safety, and understanding load calculations are essential in this field.

What are some common challenges a Stage Rigger might face during live events, and how can they be addressed?

Stage Riggers often work under tight timelines and must adapt quickly to last-minute changes in event setups, which can include unexpected weather conditions or venue restrictions. Ensuring safety while working at heights and handling heavy equipment is a significant challenge, requiring strict adherence to safety protocols. Effective communication with lighting, sound, and production teams is essential for smooth coordination. Riggers can address these challenges by staying organized, participating in regular safety training, and maintaining clear communication with all crew members throughout the event setup and breakdown.
What are popular job titles related to Stage Rigger jobs in California? For Stage Rigger jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Stage Rigger jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Stage Rigger jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Stage Rigger job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 24% Locum Tenens, 5% Internship, 1% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,405 per year, or $25.7 per hour.
Theatre Technician

$5.4K - $5.9K/mo

Other

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Description Definition Under direction, performs technical theatrical duties to support a wide variety of music, dance, theater productions, and other special events; reviews scenic plans, lighting, video and audio plots; reviews and completes work requests for stage productions; installs and maintains theatrical control systems; attends and assists with technical and dress rehearsals; and performs other duties as assigned. Supervision Works under the direct supervision of the department manager. Does not directly or indirectly supervise other employees but may provide work direction to lower-level employees, temporary employees, and/or student workers.

Work Schedule 40 hours per week, 12 months per year, some evenings and weekends will be required. Examples of Duties ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: The following duties and responsibilities are typical of those performed in this classification. Performs technical theatrical duties to support a wide variety of music, dance, theater productions, and other special events (e.g., graduation ceremony, guest speakers, etc.)

Reviews scenic plans, lighting, video and audio plots; works from blueprints, drawings, layouts, and other renderings to design and construct stage sets; prepares cost estimates and orders needed supplies, equipment, material, and rentals for productions, confers with designers and directors on budget and time considerations and restraints. Reviews and completes work requests for stage productions; utilizes tools and equipment to inspect, repair, fabricate and install a variety of requested performing arts construction and stage designs; orders, rents, or otherwise acquires props and set pieces per production designer's specifications; works with the department manager and technical staff to ensure that construction, painting, rigging, and set-up of stage settings and other assigned events are set up in a proper, safe, and timely manner. Installs, and maintains theatrical control systems; operates video, sound and/or lighting consoles during performances and special events; reinforces sound for live music performances; designs, implements, programs, and maintains computerized playback systems to produce audio, visual and special effects during productions.

Attends and assists with technical and dress rehearsals to ensure the proper execution of scene, lighting, and audio shifts, properties placement, and shifting, and costume changes; confers with the department manager to make sure productions will run smoothly. Provides technical expertise and assistance to faculty and students in stagecraft, lighting, and audio courses and labs. Collaborates with staff, vendors, and contractors to guide, oversee and inspect job specifications and completed work.

Schedules and ensures the striking of sets following closing performances. Creates and maintains a variety of office records and reports. May provide work direction to lower-level employees, temporary employees, and/or student workers.

Performs other related duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: The education, training, and experience qualifications are considered likely to provide the required knowledge and abilities to perform the above essential duties. Education and Experience: One year of college course work (30 semester units or equivalent quarter) from an accredited college or university in theatre arts, technical theatrics, multimedia productions, or a closely related field.

Four years of technical theater/dramatic production work experience in one or more of the following areas: set construction, stage rigging, stage lighting, stage audio, or stage video, including experience using computerized theatrical control systems. Licenses/Certifications/Other Requirements: None. Knowledge of: Principles, methods, materials, and terminology used in theatrical set design, construction, lighting, rigging, video, and audio design and set-up.

Computerized theatrical control systems. Safety measures and hazards for theater productions. Basic electrical theory and principles as it pertains to stage equipment.

Network theory. Light design. Theatrical production and construction blueprints.

Laws, regulations, standards, and/or requirements applicable to areas of assignment. Standard office practices or procedures. Standard office software and modern office equipment.

Standard formats for business correspondence and other communications. Methods of filing information using alpha, numeric, and alphanumeric systems. Correct use of the English language, including spelling, punctuation, and grammar.

Principles and practices of customer service. Ability to: Arrange the technical aspects of theatrical productions, including set construction, stage rigging, lighting, audio, and video. Operate and configure computerized theatrical control systems.

Read and interpret designs, blueprints, renderings, and other drawings execute scenery, lighting, video, and audio designs. Assists in the construction and oversight of stage sets and set-up of lighting, video, and audio equipment. Operates hand tools and construction equipment.

Explain and apply general safety procedures applicable to the areas of assignment. Research, apply, and explain the laws, regulations, policies and/or procedures applicable to areas of assignment. Operate a variety of office equipment including computers and printers/copiers.

Utilize standard office software (e.g., email, word processing, and spreadsheet software). Maintain confidentiality of sensitive and/or protected information. Prepare reports, correspondence, and other documents using multiple business formats

Maintain hard copy and electronic files and records. Prioritize work and complete assignments accurately and within established deadlines. Provide and obtain detailed information to/from others.

Provide customer service with a high level of sensitivity, tact and patience. Exercise reasonable judgment in performing job duties. Work and perform duties independently.

Perform and prioritize multiple tasks. Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with all staff and others encountered in the course of work.

Demonstrate a sensitivity to, and understanding of, the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, and ethnic backgrounds of community college students. PHYSICAL AND MENTAL STANDARDS: The following physical and mental standards are identified as necessary to perform the essential duties and responsibilities. However, reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Mobility: walking or standing for extended periods of time; dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard, lighting devices, soundboards, and related performing arts equipment; bending at the waist, kneeling, and crouching to retrieve tools, equipment, and materials; climbing ladders and scaffolding. Dexterity: manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination to reach overhead, above the shoulders, and horizontally. Lifting: lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling heavy objects weighing 50lbs.or less as assigned by the position

Visual Requirements: seeing to read a variety of materials; visual acuity to see close, distant, and peripheral objects; adjust focus as necessary; and perceive depth and colors. Hearing/Talking: hearing and speaking to exchange information in person and on the telephone. Emotional/Psychological Factors: working under pressure; working at considerable heights above performing arts stages.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS: Work is primarily performed inside, in a performing arts theatre or classroom. Work involves changing lighting conditions, smoke conditions, and exposure to loud noises. Additional Information Salary The Theatre Technician classification salary range is R-34.

Starting salary: Step 1 $5,421.58 to Step 3 $5,977.29 per month, based on training and experience. Salary range: Step 1 $5,421.58 to Step 6 $6,919.46 per month (plus longevity where applicable) Application Process This position requires the following documents to be attached to your online application in order to be considered: Current resume Transcripts showing required degree and coursework must be submitted. Unofficial transcripts will be accepted only during the application process

Official transcripts are required upon offer of employment. Foreign transcripts and degrees require official certification of equivalency to U.S. transcripts and degrees by a certified U.S

review service at the time of application. Please note: All required documentation must be attached to the online application by the applicant. Additional documents not requested in the announcement will not be reviewed.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. First review: August 7, 2026. Applications with incomplete information (i.e

statements such as "see resume") or missing documents will not be reviewed. Position Funding The district reserves the right to extend, withdraw, and/or reopen this position at any time. Commitment to Diversity and Equal Employment Opportunity Employer GCCD is committed to employing administrators, faculty, and staff members who are dedicated to student success.

GCCD recognizes that diversity in the academic environment fosters cultural awareness, promotes mutual understanding and respect, and provides suitable role models for all students. GCCD is committed to hiring processes that support equal opportunity, diversity, and provide equitable consideration for all candidates as required in federal and state law. To find out more about GCCD, please visit our website at glendale.edu

Accommodations If accommodations are needed for the application process in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Office of Human Resources. Thank you for your interest in employment opportunities with Glendale Community College