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Stagehand Work Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

WSI/LGI

Waverly, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $21.50/hr

... work during off periods. 5. Assist in securing the facility prior to leaving. Minimum Qualifications: * Knowledge of water safety practices and usage of water safety equipment. * Current Red Cross ...

Stagehand Work information

What is the difference between Stagehand Work vs Lighting Technician?

AspectStagehand WorkLighting Technician
Required CredentialsNone specific, often on-the-job trainingTechnical training or certification in lighting design or electrical work
Work EnvironmentOn stage, backstage, event venues, theatersLighting rigs, control booths, theaters, concert halls
Employer & Industry UsageEvent production, theater, concerts, live showsConcerts, theater productions, TV and film sets
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles in live eventsSpecialized role focusing on lighting setup and operation

While both Stagehands and Lighting Technicians work in live event environments, Stagehands handle general setup, moving equipment, and backstage support, often with minimal formal credentials. Lighting Technicians require technical skills and certifications related to lighting systems, focusing specifically on lighting design, setup, and operation. Both roles are essential in production settings but differ in specialization and technical requirements.

How much do stagehands make in the US?

Stagehands in the US typically earn an average hourly wage of around $15 to $25, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000 depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the production. Many work part-time or on a freelance basis, often requiring knowledge of equipment and safety protocols.

Is a stagehand work a hard job?

Stagehand work can be physically demanding, involving lifting heavy equipment, standing for long periods, and working in variable environments. It often requires quick problem-solving, attention to safety protocols, and flexibility with irregular or long hours, especially during events or productions.

What qualifications do you need to be a stagehand?

To be a stagehand, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, physical stamina, and the ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends. Experience with stage equipment, lighting, and sound systems is beneficial, and some positions may require safety certifications such as OSHA training.
Infographic showing various Stagehand Work job openings in Iowa as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 29% Full Time, and 71% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Student Worker Stagehand 26/27

Council Bluffs, IA • On-site

Iowa Western Community College
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 501 - 1,000 employees

$12/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Salary: $12.00 Hourly
Location : Council Bluffs, IA
Job Type: Student
Division: Student & FWS
Opening Date: 08/14/2026
Closing Date: 12/11/2026 11:59 PM Central
Description
The Arts Center Part-time Stagehand is a theater technician who performs tasks and duties necessary to the presentation of a variety of events at the Arts Center. Part-time Stagehand is reasonably knowledgeable on the use and operation of live performance systems, including lighting, sound, video, staging, rigging, and A/V systems. Part-time Stagehand takes direction from Arts Center Technical Director or management of the various events that take place in the performance spaces of the Arts Center.
Job Duties
  • Take direction from Technical Director or production staff and carry out tasks which support live performances or events in the performance spaces of the Arts Center.
  • Set-up, tear-down, manipulation and operation of theater technical equipment, including lighting, sound, scenery, rigging, staging, and other equipment.
  • Loading and unloading performance equipment from event transportation vehicles.

Qualifications
  • Experience working in a technical field in an entertainment venue, company, or school theater.
  • Must be able to listen to and comprehend instructions and work independently to complete the task.
  • Competence in oral and interpersonal communication.
  • Technical knowledge of modern sound, lighting, stage, and rigging equipment.
  • Knowledge of stage operations and theater etiquette.
  • Maintain a professional appearance appropriate to the nature of the event.
  • Must be an Iowa Western student

Physical Demands
  • Must be able to withstand occasional long and irregular hours of concentrated physical activity.
  • Must be able to climb stairs and ladders.
  • Manual manipulation of tools and theater instruments.
  • Standing or sitting for long periods of time.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to see, talk, and hear.
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.

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