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Stage Rigger Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Knowledge of stage rigging. * Knowledge of college and department policies and procedures. * Knowledge of lighting equipment and design. * Knowledge of set design principles. * Knowledge of the ...

Manage and oversee technical staff, including Stage Managers, Audio, Lighting and Video technicians ... Ensure safety standards for equipment operation and rigging are followed and oversee and ...

Manage and oversee technical staff, including Stage Managers, Audio, Lighting and Video technicians ... Ensure safety standards for equipment operation and rigging are followed and oversee and ...

Stagehand

Stockton, CA · On-site

$20.85/hr

Operates specialized audio, lighting, video and rigging equipment * Uses specialized programs and equipment in live productions * Setup and Strike of Events * Implements and ensures that all ...

Operates specialized audio, lighting, video and rigging equipment * Uses specialized programs and equipment in live productions * Setup and Strike of Events * Implements and ensures that all ...

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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.
Performing Arts Technician III (Performing Arts Technician) - Green Music Center

Performing Arts Technician III (Performing Arts Technician) - Green Music Center

California State University

Sonoma, CA • On-site

$4.6K - $6.7K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


California State University rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

230th of 560 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Performing Arts Technician III (Performing Arts Technician) - Green Music Center
Job no: 558829
Work type: Staff
Location: Sonoma
Categories: Unit 9 - CSUEU - Technical Support Services, Probationary, Full Time, Theatre Arts, On-site (work in-person at business location)
Application Process
This position is open until filled. For full consideration, please submit application, along with cover letter and resume.
Please review the position description listed above for full scope of responsibilities and qualifications.
Job Summary
Under the direct supervision of the Associate Director of Production at the Green Music Center, with additional lead work direction from show related stage manager, the Performing Arts Technician provides live lighting support including setup/rigging of lights, wiring and focus of lights and programming/operating lighting consoles. Incumbent also provides live audio support including wiring of the stage, patching audio and assisting with the rigging and wiring of both the indoor and outdoor PAs. Incumbent provides live video support including setup and operating video equipment and streaming equipment. The types of events include performances by world-class artists, touring companies, faculty/staff/and student performances, as well as rental events. Additional duties include amplified sound setup for live performances, rigging, professional audio & video recording, load-in, setup & strike, load-out, utilizes lighting, video and audio software and hardware for recording and postproduction. In addition, the incumbent serves as a stagehand and assists with stage changes both before and during the performance. This position requires frequent work on nights and weekends, often past midnight.
Work Environment:
Duties will take place at the Green Music Center however additional duties may be performed in various locations on the Sonoma State University campus, or at University events off campus, including working both indoors and outdoors to support and participate in university activities and events. As a non-exempt employee, any request for overtime will be specified and pre-approved by Appropriate Administrator. The work schedule is variable and depends on the needs tied to support for performance and events at Sonoma State University. Overtime, weekend, and evening hours will be required and specified only by the supervisor to meet operational needs, often with support needed past midnight. The incumbent must maintain regular and acceptable attendance at such levels as is determined by the Appropriate Administrator.
Key Qualifications
This position requires ten years of responsible and related experience providing live lighting, video and audio services for indoor and outdoor concerts, live entertainment events and activities such as performing arts organizations, theatre and dance companies, and music organizations or an equivalent combination of education and experience. In depth knowledge of lighting consoles required. Detailed knowledge and experience of live lighting, video, rigging of lighting hardware, stage wiring and patching, rigging projection screens, drapery, running and connecting power cables, and related equipment. Knowledge of stage etiquette desired. Membership in professional Audio/Theatrical organizations desired.
The incumbent must successfully complete a pre-placement exam.
Salary and Benefits
This is a full time, exempt position, which will lead toward permanent status following the successful completion of a probationary period. Step placement will be determined based on relevant qualifications and professional experience. Step placement upon appointment is not expected to exceed Step 19 ($6,606).The CSU Classification Step Range for this position is $4,626 - $6,739 per month (step 1 - step 20).
This position is eligible for a broad range of benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurances, retirement (CalPERS), tuition waiver, vacation and sick leave. In addition, 15 paid holidays are offered each year. Sonoma State University is also a Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) Employer.
A comprehensive benefits summary for this position is available online by clicking here to be taken to the CSU benefits page.
For eligible employees, CSUEU collective bargaining agreement Article 17.10 will be honored.
Supplemental Information
About Sonoma State University:
Sonoma State University is committed to achieving excellence through teaching, scholarship, learning and inclusion. In line with our Strategic Plan and our Seawolf Commitment, our values include diversity, sustainability, community engagement, respect, responsibility, excellence and integrity. We strive to cultivate a community in which a diverse population can learn and work in an atmosphere of civility and respect. We encourage innovation, experimentation and creativity, as well as contributions to equity and inclusion, in the pursuit of excellence for all members of our university community.
Equal Opportunity & Mandated Reporting:
The University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, medical condition, disability, marital status, or protected veteran status. Mandated Reporting: This position may be considered a "mandated reporter" under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment.
Employment Eligibility & Conditions:
CSU Out of State Policy - Sonoma State University, 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. A background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily before any candidate can be offered a position. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the application status of applicants or continued employment of current employees who apply for this position.
Education Code 89521 - Applicants will be required to disclose whether they have received a final administrative decision or final judicial decision determining that they have committed sexual harassment within the last 7 years only after a determination is made that they meet the minimum qualifications for the position, and before an offer of employment is extended. Applicants who reach the final stages of the application process must also sign a release form that authorizes the release of information by the applicant's current and/or former employers to the CSU concerning any substantiated allegations of misconduct.
Sonoma State University is not a sponsoring agency for staff positions (i.e. H-1B visas).
Positions are posted for a minimum of 14 calendar days.
Application Process & Accommodations:
For questions related to the application process, please reach out to hr@sonoma.edu. The ADA Coordinator is also available (hraccommodations@sonoma.edu) to assist individuals with disabilities in need of accommodation during the hiring process.
Annual Reports & Safety Information:
Sonoma State University's Annual Security Report (https://clery.sonoma.edu/annual-security-report) includes summaries of institutional policy relating to campus safety, drug and alcohol use, sexual assault, and other matters. The report is published in compliance with the Clery Act and includes three years of certain crime statistics that occurred in Clery Act defined geography. A paper copy of the report may be requested in person by emailing the Clery Compliance and Safety Office at clery@sonoma.edu.
Pursuant to the Higher Education Opportunity Act, the Annual Fire Safety Report (AFSR) is available for viewing at https://housing.sonoma.edu/compliance-data/2024-campus-housing-fire-safety-report. The purpose of this report is to disclose statistics for fires that occurred within Sonoma State University student housing facilities for three years, and to distribute fire safety policies and procedures intended to promote safety on campus. A paper copy of the AFSR is available upon request by contacting the Residential Education and Campus Housing at housing@sonoma.edu.
Advertised: Jun 25 2026 Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close:
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About California State University

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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