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Stage Rigging Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Master Carpenter for Fall Play

Wilmette, IL · On-site

$20.50 - $27.75/hr

Supervise spiking and painting of the set and stage * Assist in cleaning the stage before tech ... Knowledge of rigging equipment and safety is preferred and not required * Have an eye for detail ...

Event Production Crew

Lombard, IL · On-site

$23 - $24/hr

If you have a strong work ethic, a "can-do" attitude and want to play a role in setting the stage ... Riggers - Industry Experienced Work-at-Heights Professionals, (compensation DOE). Work Schedule:

Event Crew St Louis

Lombard, IL · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

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 Chicago, IL salary details

$11

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$28

How much do stage rigging jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for stage rigging in Chicago, IL is $20.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.36 and $23.03 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.

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 are popular job titles related to Stage Rigging jobs in Chicago, IL? For Stage Rigging jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Stage Rigging jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Stage Rigging jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Master Carpenter for Fall Play

Master Carpenter for Fall Play

Loyola Academy

Wilmette, IL • On-site

$20.50 - $27.75/hr

Other

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Loyola Academy offers its student body of nearly 2000 a rigorous and relevant college preparatory curriculum, a highly developed visual arts and music program, a diversity of athletic and extracurricular activities, and strong retreat and service-learning programs. As a Jesuit school, Loyola Academy strives to form young women and men for others for meaningful lives of leadership and service in imitation of Jesus Christ. All candidates for this position must possess a strong desire to actively contribute to the furthering of Loyola Academy's mission. 

Position: Master Carpenter for Fall Play

Responsibilities

  • Attend scheduled meetings    
  • Be available for scheduled build days and technical rehearsals
  • Attend and assist the strike
  • Be onsite to receive and unload trucks
  • Maintain open communication with the technical director
  • Supervise and instruct student crew
  • Communicate with all students via their school email or other system set up by directors.
  • Implement backstage rules of conduct and safety
  • Build necessary pieces needed for the show
  • Supervise spiking and painting of the set and stage
  • Assist in cleaning the stage before tech rehearsal and store unused set items
  • Keep backstage in good safe condition
  • Clean and organize the stage and shop following the show; work with the theater operations manager to insure it is in the expected condition
  • Replace and organize any stock pieces that were used during the production

Requirements

  • Strong understanding of scenic construction and theatrical carpentry
  • Experience safely using hand and power tools
  • Ability to read scenic drawings and construction plans
  • Strong leadership, teaching, and organizational skills
  • Collaborative and safety-focused mindset
  • Availability for build days, tech rehearsals, performances as needed, and strike
  • Knowledge of rigging equipment and safety is preferred and not required
  • Have an eye for detail and be organized
  • Be a strong and willing collaborator
  • Clear communicator 

Pay rate: Category D - $2768

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Statement

Loyola Academy is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, abides by all applicable provisions of federal, state, and local law. Loyola does not discriminate in its employment policies and practices on the basis of race, color, national origin or ancestry, sex, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, or any other classification protected by applicable law.

Disclosure

The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties and responsibilities to be performed by the employee occupying this position or the only necessary skills. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor in compliance with Federal and State Laws.