ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Stage Rigger Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

Wilkes University

Technical Director

Wilkes Barre, PA · On-site

... stage rigging, welding, drafting, advanced stagecraft, introductory design, and production lab supervision; design courses possible for qualified candidatesMaintaining a clean, safe, and organized ...

Wilkes University

Technical Director

Wilkes Barre, PA · On-site

Teaching courses in technical production, which may include stagecraft, stage rigging, welding, drafting, advanced stagecraft, introductory design, and production lab supervision; design courses ...

Wilkes University

Technical Director

Wilkes Barre, PA · On-site

Teaching courses in technical production, which may include stagecraft, stage rigging, welding, drafting, advanced stagecraft, introductory design, and production lab supervision; design courses ...

ASM Global

A/V Tech

Pittsburgh, PA

... rigging, spotlight and camera operation (for IMAG and purposes of live production routing/streaming only), stage sets, screens, and microphones. If an exhibitor hires a contractor to install a video ...

ASM Global

A/V Tech

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

... rigging, spotlight and camera operation (for IMAG and purposes of live production routing/streaming only), stage sets, screens, and microphones. If an exhibitor hires a contractor to install a video ...

Flyspace Productions LLC

Event Assistant

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$17/hr

Our Production Department provides concert audio, lighting, rigging, staging, and one of the ... Support stage, lighting, audio, and general event operations * Perform physical work, lifting up to ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsStage Rigger JobsStage Rigger Jobs in Pennsylvania

Stage Rigger information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$14

$26

$36

How much do stage rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for stage rigger in Pennsylvania is $26.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.12 and $29.86 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 Pennsylvania?

For Stage Rigger jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Stage Rigger jobs in Pennsylvania look for?

The top searched job categories for Stage Rigger jobs in Pennsylvania are:

Stage Rigger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Stage Rigger job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,244 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Technical Director

Wilkes Barre, PA • On-site

Wilkes University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Wilkes Universityexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Wilkes University invites applications for a full-time Technical Director in the Division of Performing Arts to begin in August 2026. The Wilkes University Theatre Program offers a BFA in Musical Theatre, a BA in Theatre Arts, a BFA in Theatre Design and Technology, and minors in Theatre, Music, and Dance.ResponsibilitiesThe Technical Director oversees technical production for the Division's annual season, which includes two musicals, two plays, one dance concert, and several music concerts. Core duties include:Producing cost analyses, construction drawings, and build/load-in schedules for each production in cooperation with other departmentsAttending tech and dress rehearsals and the majority of performancesTeaching courses in technical production, which may include stagecraft, stage rigging, welding, drafting, advanced stagecraft, introductory design, and production lab supervision; design courses possible for qualified candidatesMaintaining a clean, safe, and organized scene shop, stage, and storage facilitiesManaging inventory of tools and shop equipmentBuilding scenery and supervising student crewsSupervising staffing for additional events in the Darte CenterProviding support across technical areas, including scenic, lighting, and sound design as neededRequired QualificationsBachelor's degree in Theatre with an emphasis in technical production, plus a minimum of five years of relevant professional experienceExperience in theatrical scenery construction, welding, stage rigging, and budget managementProficiency in AutoCAD and/or VectorworksStrong verbal and written communication skillsCollaborative mindset and positive, team-oriented attitudePreferred QualificationsF.A. in Design/Technical Direction or a related field with a theatre emphasis, plus a minimum of three years of relevant professional experienceTwo or more years of university-level teaching experienceAbout WilkesWilkes University is an independent, comprehensive university dedicated to academic excellence in the liberal arts, sciences, and selected professional programs. The University has approximately 2,000 students at the undergraduate level and over 1,500 full time equivalent students at the graduate and first professional levels.Its institutional focus is on developing strong mentoring relationships with each of its students and contributing vitally to economic development of Northeastern Pennsylvania. The University is located in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, a revitalized city that is located on the lovely Susquehanna River and is within two and one-half hours driving distance of New York City and Philadelphia.To apply, visit https://wilkesuniversitycareers.applicantpro.com/jobs/. Please be sure to include a cover letter, resume or curriculum vitae and three references.Wilkes University is constantly seeking to become a more diverse community and to enhance its capacity to value and capitalize on the cultural richness that diversity brings. The University strongly encourages applications from persons with diverse backgrounds. Wilkes University does not discriminate in its employment practices or in its educational programs or activities on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, religion, disability, pregnancy, sex/gender, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, marital or family status, military or veteran status, or genetic information.Employment at Wilkes is contingent upon the results of a thorough background screening. PA Act 153 requires that persons working in positions with regular and unsupervised contact with minors complete additional clearances, including FBI fingerprinting and PA criminal and child abuse clearances.
Job Posted by ApplicantPro