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Stage Rigger Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Spatial Designer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$95 - $125/hr

Maintain a working knowledge of stage-building methods, rigging capabilities, and venue standards across a range of event and experiential spaces. * Strong spatial and 3D design sensibility, with an ...

Spatial Designer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$95 - $125/hr

Maintain a working knowledge of stage-building methods, rigging capabilities, and venue standards across a range of event and experiential spaces. * Strong spatial and 3D design sensibility, with an ...

Spatial Designer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$95K - $125K/yr

Maintain a working knowledge of stage-building methods, rigging capabilities, and venue standards across a range of event and experiential spaces. [SKILLS YOU WILL NEED ] * Strong spatial and 3D ...

If you have a strong work ethic, a "can-do" attitude and want to play a role in setting the stage ... structures, rigging, and rapidly changing conditions. Communication may occur through spoken ...

If you have a strong work ethic, a "can-do" attitude and want to play a role in setting the stage ... structures, rigging, and rapidly changing conditions. Communication may occur through spoken ...

Theatre Technician

Tracy, CA · On-site

$32.62 - $39.65/hr

Install rigging, lighting, sound equipment and scenery for theatrical, musical and other events. * Operate stage equipment, lighting and sound systems, digital projection equipment and other ...

If you have a strong work ethic, a "can-do" attitude and want to play a role in setting the stage ... structures, rigging, and rapidly changing conditions. Communication may occur through spoken ...

Showing results 21-40

Stage Rigger information

See California salary details

$13

$25

$36

How much do stage rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 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 a stage rigger?

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.

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

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.

What challenges might a stage rigger 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 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.

How to get into stage rigging?

To become a stage rigger, gain experience in theater, construction, or technical theater, and learn to operate rigging tools and equipment such as hoists, pulleys, and safety gear. Many riggers start as apprentices or stagehands, and obtaining certifications like OSHA safety training can improve job prospects.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,405 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

CPAC Stage Technician - PAT I - Hourly/Intermittent POOL

California State University

Long Beach, CA • On-site

$21.47 - $31.27/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Temporary

Re-posted 7 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Operates stage equipment such as lighting, sound, and rigging systems during events.

  • Assists in constructing, setting up, and striking stage sets, flats, and properties.

  • Sets up and arranges stage elements like platforms, chairs, music stands, and tables for performances.


California State University rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

213th of 629 rated colleges and universities


Job description

CPAC Stage Technician - PAT I - Hourly/Intermittent POOL

Apply now Job no: 554202
Work type: Staff
Location: Long Beach
Categories: Unit 9 - CSUEU - Technical Support Services, Temporary, Part Time, Theatre Arts

Job Summary

Under the general supervision of the Production Manager and the Lead Stage Technician, this position operates theatrical and stage equipment and performs other stage assistant duties during events at the Carpenter Center.

Key Responsibilities
  • Operates stage equipment for events in the performance hall - Hangs and focuses lighting equipment. 
  • Participates in the construction of stage sets, flats and properties - Builds or assembles scenic pieces.
  • Assists in stage set-up and strike during productions - Sets up platforms, chairs, music stands and tables as needed for events.
Knowledge Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of stage equipment and its operation; knowledge of stage construction and set design; knowledge of the types and uses of lighting and sound equipment, counterweight and rigging systems and other stage equipment; working knowledge of sound equipment and set up. Ability to assist in the construction of scenic elements and stage set ups, hanging and focusing of stage lighting, setting  up sound needs and the ability to operate various stage equipment.

Ability to communicate with an ethnically and culturally diverse campus community.  Ability to follow all university policies, procedures, and guidelines including but not limited to safety, civility, information security, and non-discrimination policies and procedures.  Ability to contribute to a positive university experience for each and every student and assist in achieving the university's commitment to a "vision of excellence."

Education and Experience

Equivalent to 12 semester units of related college coursework and one year of related professional or technical experience required.

Physical Summary
  • Heavy work - Job involves lifting more than 40 pounds. Approximately half of the incumbent's time will be spent walking, standing, squatting, kneeling, or climbing.
Department

Carpenter Performing Arts Center

Compensation

The salary range for this classification is $21.47 to $31.27 per hour.

Time Base

Hourly/intermittent on call temporary position for one year with no permanent status granted. Temporary assignments may expire prior to the ending date.

Classification

Performing Arts Technician I

Application Procedures

Click Apply Now to complete the CSULB Online Employment Application.

Additional Information

CSULB is not a sponsoring agency for staff and management positions (i.e. H-1B Visas).

A background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily and is required for employment. CSU will make a conditional offer of employment, which may be rescinded if the background check reveals disqualifying information, and/or it is discovered that the candidate knowingly withheld or falsified information. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the continued employment of a current CSU employee who was conditionally offered the position.

California State University Long Beach expects respectful, professional behavior from its employees in all situations. Acts of harassment or abusive conduct are prohibited. Demonstrated appropriate professional behavior, treating others with civility and respect, and refusing to tolerate abusive conduct is expected of all employees.

Equal Employment Statement

Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, CSULB provides equal opportunity in employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, national origin, or other protected status. CSULB complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the California Equity in Higher Education Act, California's Proposition 209 (Art. I, Section 31 of the California Constitution), other applicable state and federal anti-discrimination laws, and CSU's Nondiscrimination Policy. We prohibit discriminatory preferential treatment, segregation based on race or any other protected status, and all forms of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in all university programs, policies, and practices.

Accommodations

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact StaffHR-Accommodations@csulb.edu.

Out of State Employment Policy

California State University, Long Beach, as part of the CSU system, is a State of California Employer. As such, the University requires all employees upon date of hire to reside in the State of California.

As of January 1, 2022 the CSU Out-of-State Employment Policy prohibits the hiring of employees to perform CSU-related work outside the state of California.

Advertised: Jan 01 2026 Pacific Standard Time
Applications close: Dec 31 2026 Pacific Standard Time

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About California State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

California State University, Fresno is one of 23 campuses in the California State University System. The University's mission is to boldly educate and empower students for success through our values of Discovery, Diversity and Distinction. The current student population is more than 25,000, including a large percentage of students with diverse and culturally rich backgrounds. The University serves the San Joaquin Valley while maintaining deep involvement with the state, nation, and across the globe.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Long Beach, CA, US