ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Stage Rigging Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

Emerson College

Emerson Stage Overhire

Boston, MA · On-site

$19 - $25.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

Riggers * Scenic Painters * Props Artisans * Electricians * Sound Technicians * Costume & Wardrobe Technicians * Wig/Hair & Makeup Technicians * Projection Technicians * General Stage Hands ESSENTIAL ...

Emerson College

Emerson Stage Overhire

Boston, MA

$19 - $25.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

Riggers * Scenic Painters * Props Artisans * Electricians * Sound Technicians * Costume & Wardrobe Technicians * Wig/Hair & Makeup Technicians * Projection Technicians * General Stage Hands ESSENTIAL ...

Zeiterion Theatre Inc

Stage Hand

New Bedford, MA · On-site

$21/hr

Lighting, audio, video, and rigging equipment * Soft goods, risers, drapery, and related ... Support stage transitions, scene shifts, and backstage coordination during performances and ...

Boston Conservatory

Lighting Supervisor

Boston, MA · On-site

$50K - $66K/yr

  • PTO

Proficiency in Vectorworks, Lightwright, Eos technology (ETC ION), stage rigging, and electronics. * Special Conditions: Ability to lift up to 40 lbs, work on ladders/catwalks up to 24 feet and work ...

New

Berklee College of Music

Lighting Supervisor

Boston, MA · On-site

$50K - $66K/yr

  • PTO

Proficiency in Vectorworks, Lightwright, Eos technology (ETC ION), stage rigging, and electronics. * Special Conditions: Ability to lift up to 40 lbs, work on ladders/catwalks up to 24 feet and work ...

Emerson College

Overhire Stage Hand

Boston, MA · On-site

$27/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

Theatrical carpenters, fly rail operators, and riggers * Audio technicians and operators * Wardrobe ... Individuals interested in Stage Management work or Design/Artisan opportunities should email OAPM ...

Emerson College

Overhire Stage Hand

Boston, MA

$27/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

Theatrical carpenters, fly rail operators, and riggers * Audio technicians and operators * Wardrobe ... Individuals interested in Stage Management work or Design/Artisan opportunities should email OAPM ...

Harvard University

Technical Director

Cambridge, MA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Directs all aspects of scenery, rigging, and automation in coordination with stage operations for A.R.T. Productions, including managing commercial scene shop builds. Position Responsibilities:

Harvard University

Technical Director

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$57/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Directs all aspects of scenery, rigging, and automation in coordination with stage operations for A.R.T. Productions, including managing commercial scene shop builds. Position Responsibilities:

Harvard University

Technical Director

Cambridge, MA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Directs all aspects of scenery, rigging, and automation in coordination with stage operations for A.R.T. Productions, including managing commercial scene shop builds. Position Responsibilities:

Methods Machine

Warehouse Associate

Sudbury, MA · On-site

$20.59 - $24.71/hr

Safely load, unload, move, and stage machinery and equipment weighing up to approximately 30,000 lbs. * Inspect and use overhead cranes, hoists, slings, chains, spreader bars, and other rigging ...

Methods Machine Tools Inc

Warehouse Associate

Sudbury, MA · On-site

$20.59 - $24.71/hr

Safely load, unload, move, and stage machinery and equipment weighing up to approximately 30,000 lbs. * Inspect and use overhead cranes, hoists, slings, chains, spreader bars, and other rigging ...

Methods Machine Tools

Warehouse Associate

Sudbury, MA · On-site

$20.59 - $24.71/hr

Safely load, unload, move, and stage machinery and equipment weighing up to approximately 30,000 lbs. * Inspect and use overhead cranes, hoists, slings, chains, spreader bars, and other rigging ...

Methods Machine

Warehouse Associate

Sudbury, MA · On-site

$20.59 - $24.71/hr

Safely load, unload, move, and stage machinery and equipment weighing up to approximately 30,000 lbs. * Inspect and use overhead cranes, hoists, slings, chains, spreader bars, and other rigging ...

Methods Machine

Warehouse Associate

Sudbury, MA · On-site

$20.59 - $24.71/hr

Safely load, unload, move, and stage machinery and equipment weighing up to approximately 30,000 lbs. * Inspect and use overhead cranes, hoists, slings, chains, spreader bars, and other rigging ...

BEPeterson

Fabricator

Avon, MA · On-site

$25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Do you want to have valuable input into fabrications closer to the design stage when you can have ... In-depth understanding of rigging techniques * Understand various edge preps before welding. * High ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsStage Rigging JobsStage Rigging Jobs in Massachusetts

Stage Rigging information

See Massachusetts salary details

$11

$21

$30

How much do stage rigging jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for stage rigging in Massachusetts is $21.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.37 and $24.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a stage rigger do?

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.

What skills and qualifications are needed for stage rigging?

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 stage rigging?

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.

How to get into stage rigging?

To get into stage rigging, individuals typically start by gaining experience in theater, production, or technical roles, often through apprenticeships or entry-level positions. Developing skills in rigging, safety procedures, and operating tools like hoists and pulleys is essential, along with obtaining relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training. Building a strong understanding of stage design and working in collaborative environments helps advance in this field.

What are popular job titles related to Stage Rigging jobs in Massachusetts?

For Stage Rigging jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Stage Rigging jobs in Massachusetts look for?

The top searched job categories for Stage Rigging jobs in Massachusetts are:

Stage Rigging jobs near you
Infographic showing various Stage Rigging job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,185 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Emerson Stage Overhire

Emerson College

Boston, MA • On-site

$19 - $25.25/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Join our community and experience Emerson College!
Emerson Stage (the producing wing inside the department of Performing Arts) is seeking responsible, dependable, stagehands and technicians to support the production staff on various productions in our 10+ show season.
Emerson Stage maintains an overhire list of experienced freelance theatre technicians to assist with build, load in and load out of our productions. Individuals on this list are scheduled on an as-needed basis. Emerson Stage sends out an email to the overhire list when these positions are required for projects, indicating the dates/times of the calls, the production and venue, and the positions open. If available, individuals may reply to the email with their availability and will be selected based on their technical experience to fill the call. Seeking the following positions:
  • Carpenters
  • Riggers
  • Scenic Painters
  • Props Artisans
  • Electricians
  • Sound Technicians
  • Costume & Wardrobe Technicians
  • Wig/Hair & Makeup Technicians
  • Projection Technicians
  • General Stage Hands

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES
  • Carpenters/Riggers:
    • Support the construction, installation, and strike of scenery; interpret technical build drawings safely and efficiently alongside students in coordination with the Technical Director
    • Assist the Technical Director in managing safe theatrical rigging, fly rail operations, and flying or hung scenic equipment during load-in and load-out

  • Scenic Painters:
    • Paint and finish all scenic elements including priming, texturing, sculpting, and applying scenic details as designed by the Scenic Designer and Charge Artist
    • Assist in periodic upkeep/touch up of painted elements during the run of a production. Inventory and stock items when needed. Assist in the creation of a "touch up kit" for production and maintain a clean and safe work space

  • Props Artisans:
    • Construct, install, and strike properties under the Props Director's guidance; interpret build drawings safely with students using materials such as wood, foam, plastic, and paint

  • Electricians:
    • Assist with the hang, focus, cabling, and circuiting of lighting plots under the supervision of the Production Electrician; support console programming and practical cabling/wiring

  • Sound Technicians:
    • Set up, test, break down, and cable sound systems to execute designers' plots under the guidance of the Production Sound Engineer; maintain audio gear in coordination with the Sound Supervisor, set up microphones/AV systems, and operate mixing consoles during tech and performances

  • Costume & Wardrobe Technicians:
    • Assist with pulling, constructing, and altering costume garments; serve as wardrobe show crew. Maintain costumes throughout production runs. Works closely with the Draper and Costume Shop Manager to complete projects as needed including costume crafts, stitching, and alterations

  • Wig/Hair & Makeup Technicians:
    • Assist in the maintenance and implementation of wig or makeup requirements for productions. Assist with performer wig/hair styling, and theatrical makeup application or education to facilitate the designers intent
    • Serve as show run crew and maintain hair and makeup needs during productions. Ensure that quick changes, including those involving special effects makeup or wigs are achieved in a timely, safe and efficient manner

  • Projection Technicians:
    • Install, test, and break down projection equipment; execute projection plans under the Projection Engineer's guidance, maintain video equipment, program media consoles, and operate projection systems during tech and shows

  • General Stage Hands:
    • Support backstage run operations, including fly rail functions and deck track run crew duties
    • Assist with load-in and strike logistics, seating setups, event prep, and general hospitality
    • Work cross-departmentally as required and run basic light, sound, or video system boards during performances

  • Flexibility to assist cross-departmentally as needed

QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, AND SKILLS
  • Strong working knowledge of theatrical environments, live staging operations, and safety protocols
  • Proficiency in reading and interpreting technical drawings, and safely operating power tools
  • Experience hanging, circuiting, focusing, and programming lighting fixtures (familiarity with ETC EOS software is highly desirable)
  • Experience with AV setup, signal flow, digital console operations (e.g., Yamaha systems), or theatrical A2 practices
  • Stitching skills, garment alterations experience, and experience serving on wardrobe run crews
  • Ability to collaborate effectively, integrate into new teams quickly, and work well under pressure
  • Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills
  • Basic math skills, including geometry, angles, and fractions
  • Basic understanding of rigging, counterweight lineset operations, and automation systems
  • Professional safety certifications (such as OSHA 10-Hour or Aerial Lift training) are highly valued

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends, nights, and extended production shifts
  • Capability to safely lift, carry, and maneuver items weighing 25 to 50 lbs. independently, and up to 75 lbs. with assistance
  • Comfortable working at heights of up to 20 feet on ladders, scaffolding, or motorized personnel lifts; appropriate PPE must be worn as needed
  • Physical stamina to stand, sit, or maintain difficult physical positions for prolonged periods of time
  • Sustained mental stamina, concentration, and acute visual focus during complex technical operations
  • Working conditions feature variable noise and lighting levels (from quiet setup to loud, dark stage environments)

Disclaimer: This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees may be required to follow other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties as requested, subject to all applicable state and federal laws. Certain job duties described herein may be subject to possible modification in accordance with applicable state and federal laws.
Grade of Position: T01N
Employment Category: Consultant
Scheduled Weekly Hours: 36.25
In addition to a competitive salary, Emerson College is committed to the health and well-being of our employees and family members. We offer a generous benefits package to regular staff scheduled to work 20+ hours per week.
Emerson Employment Categories influence work schedules, benefits eligibility, and time off policies. Benefits include outstanding health plans with limited out-of-pocket expenses, dental plans, generous time-off programs, and a 403(b) retirement benefit with a 9% employer contribution once eligible. Additional benefits, such as life and disability coverage as well as commuter offerings, are available.
Please refer to our benefits website for a full list of benefits and eligibility requirements.

Apply