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Stage Rigging Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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Stage Rigging information

See California salary details

$10

$19

$27

How much do stage rigging jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for stage rigging in California is $19.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $22.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a typical workday look like for someone in Stage Rigging?

A typical day for a stage rigger involves inspecting and setting up rigging equipment, installing and operating fly systems, and ensuring all gear meets safety standards before, during, and after performances or events. Riggers often collaborate closely with lighting, sound, and set design teams to coordinate the safe movement and placement of scenery, lights, and effects. Work environments can range from theaters and concert venues to outdoor stages and arenas, and the pace can vary based on production schedules. Flexibility, problem-solving, and adaptability are key, as riggers frequently adjust setups for different shows and troubleshoot issues on the fly. Many stage riggers find the collaborative and dynamic atmosphere rewarding, with opportunities to progress into supervisory or technical director roles.

How much money do you make rigging?

Stage rigging technicians typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $70,000 depending on experience, location, and complexity of the projects. Skilled riggers with certifications and experience working with specialized equipment can earn higher wages, especially in large venues or touring productions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Stage Rigging position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Stage Rigging, you need a solid understanding of theatrical rigging systems, mechanical principles, and strict adherence to safety protocols, often supported by experience or formal training such as ETCP (Entertainment Technician Certification Program) certification. Familiarity with chain hoists, counterweight systems, and load calculations, as well as the ability to interpret technical drawings and use rigging hardware, is essential. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication skills set individuals apart in this role. These skills are vital to ensure safe, efficient, and successful stage productions while minimizing risks and fostering smooth collaboration with production crews.

What is a Stage Rigging job?

A Stage Rigging job involves setting up, operating, and maintaining the rigging equipment used in theaters, concerts, and live events. Riggers install and control overhead systems like lighting grids, curtains, and scenery to ensure safe and efficient performances. They must understand load limits, pulley systems, and counterweights to prevent accidents. Strong technical skills, attention to detail, and safety awareness are essential in this role.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

In stage rigging, high-paying roles such as head rigger or senior production manager can earn around $2,000 per day, especially for large-scale events or tours. These positions typically require extensive experience, specialized skills, and often involve working long hours in live entertainment or concert environments.

Where do riggers make the most money?

Stage riggers tend to earn higher wages in regions with a strong entertainment, concert, or theater industry, such as major metropolitan areas or regions with large-scale productions. Factors like experience, certifications, and working with specialized equipment can also influence earning potential, with some riggers earning more through union work or working on high-profile events. Overall, location, skill level, and industry demand are key determinants of salary for riggers.

What does a stage rigger do?

A stage rigger is responsible for installing, maintaining, and operating the equipment that supports stage lighting, scenery, and audio systems. They use tools like hoists, rigging hardware, and safety gear to ensure structures are secure and meet safety standards. The role often requires knowledge of load calculations, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications in rigging or theater safety.
What are popular job titles related to Stage Rigging jobs in California? For Stage Rigging jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Stage Rigging jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Stage Rigging jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Stage Rigging jobs? Cities in California with the most Stage Rigging job openings:
Infographic showing various Stage Rigging job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Part Time, and 50% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,832 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Corporate Stagehand - Greater Los Angeles Area, CA

Rockforce

Beverly Hills, CA • On-site

$27.55 - $46.80/hr

Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

ABOUT ROCKFORCE
RockForce provides World-Class Workforce & Production Solutions for Live Events. Our comprehensive strategic services are geared for the industry's unique needs from start to strike. RockForce provides production resources for tours, concerts, festivals, sporting events, live broadcasts, award shows, and corporate activations world-wide. Our teams bring decades of unmatched experience and expertise executing the most demanding and high-profile events for the biggest names in sports and entertainment. From Workforce Deployment, Rigging, streamlined Payroll Services, & Production Management -- We Set the Stage for the Greatest Moments in Live Events.
RockForce Operations has Workforce Divisions throughout the U.S. providing Union and Non-Union Stagehands for venues, broadcasting, and on-site productions with a commitment to safety, precision, and excellence. Every team member is thoroughly trained and supported by a leadership team with decades of hands-on experience in live event labor.
RockForce is currently hiring, on-demand Stagehands for live events in your area. Applicants with experience in live events production are preferred but all interested candidates are encouraged to apply.
JOB SUMMARY
You will play a crucial role in the build, operation, and strike of production equipment for live events. This physical labor role requires working in various working conditions, a strong commitment to safety, teamwork, timeliness, and attention to detail.
Duties/Responsibilities
Depending on needs, one or more of the following duties may be assigned:
Event Setup & Breakdown:
  • Assist in loading and unloading trucks
  • Assemble and disassemble staging, lighting, audio, and video equipment.
  • Set up backline equipment, risers, and scenery according to event specifications.
  • Set up and breakdown barricade
  • Run and coil cables for power, video, audio, lighting
  • Ensure all cables, rigging, and power sources are safely and securely installed.

On-Site Event Support:
  • Assist lighting and audio technicians during performances.
  • Set changes - move and adjust equipment and set pieces as needed.

Safety & Compliance:
  • Follow all safety protocols, including proper lifting techniques and equipment handling.
  • Ensure compliance with venue or site regulations, following industry standards.
  • Identify and report any faulty equipment or safety hazards.
  • Always maintain a safe and organized work area.

Qualifications & Skills
  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Previous experience in live event production or stagehand work preferred.
  • Practical knowledge of hand tools and tie downs (c-wrench, hammer, ratchet straps).
  • Able to lift and carry heavy equipment (50lbs+).
  • Strong teamwork and communication skills.
  • Willingness to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
  • Able to multitask while meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  • Knowledge of safety procedures and regulations for live event production.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with Audio/Video/Lighting/Staging equipment, Rigging, or Backline setup.
  • Basic knowledge of stage plots, lighting diagrams, and production schedules.

Required Qualifications
  • Must have OSHA 10 (or higher) for consideration.

Key Competencies
  • Strong communication, organizational, and multitasking skills.
  • Ability to work safely both independently and in a team-oriented environment.
  • Problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.
  • Adaptability, flexibility, and willingness to take on various tasks as assigned.

Work Environment
  • Physically demanding, requires lifting, pushing, and standing for extended periods.
  • Events may be indoors, outdoors, or in temporary structures, often exposed to varying weather conditions. This position will often move throughout the grounds and venue on different terrains.
  • Fast paced and high-energy work environment, requiring adaptability and problem-solving.

WHY ROCKFORCE
We don't just staff events - we build careers. RockForce is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing the best talent in the business. Our crews benefit from:
  • Competitive Wages
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) plan
  • Opportunities for professional development and advancement

This commitment makes RockForce an employer of choice in the live event industry.
LET'S BUILD SOMETHING TOGETHER
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
RockForce strongly supports equal employment opportunity for all applicants regardless of age (40 and over), ancestry, color, religious creed (including religious dress and grooming practices), family and medical care leave or the denial of family and medical care leave, mental or physical disability (including HIV and AIDS), marital status, domestic partner status, medical condition (including cancer and genetic characteristics), genetic information, military and veteran status, political affiliation, national origin (including language use restrictions), citizenship, race, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding), gender, gender identity, and gender expression, sexual orientation, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law, rule, ordinance or regulation.
We also afford equal employment opportunities to qualified individuals with a disability. For this reason, RockForce will make reasonable accommodations for the known physical or mental limitations of an otherwise qualified individual with a disability who is an applicant consistent with its legal obligations to do so, including reasonable accommodations related to pregnancy in accordance with applicable local, state and / or federal law. As part of its commitment to make reasonable accommodations, RockForce also wishes to participate in a timely, good faith, interactive process with a disabled applicant to determine effective reasonable accommodations, if any, which can be made in response to a request for accommodations. Applicants are invited to identify reasonable accommodations that can be made to assist them to perform the essential functions of the position they seek. Any applicant who requires an accommodation in order to perform the essential functions of the job should contact Human Resources to request the opportunity to participate in a timely interactive process. We will also provide reasonable religious accommodations on a case-by-case basis.
HIRING PRACTICES
The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job. RockForce reserves the right to change or modify the employee's job description whether orally or in writing, at any time during the employment relationship. RockForce may require an employee to perform duties outside his/her normal description.
Applicants for employment in the U.S. must possess work authorization which does not require sponsorship by the employer for a visa.