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Stagehands Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Overview Bussers are the stagehands continuously cleaning and setting up Flanigan's Dining Rooms, Bars, and Patios for a wonderful service experience. Bussers support our Servers, Bartenders, and the ...

Overview Bussers are the stagehands continuously cleaning and setting up Flanigan's Dining Rooms, Bars, and Patios for a wonderful service experience. Bussers support our Servers, Bartenders, and the ...

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Stagehands information

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$10

$19

$27

How much do stagehands jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for stagehands in the United States is $19.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Stagehand, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Stagehand, you need a solid understanding of stagecraft, basic carpentry, rigging, and audio/visual equipment, often acquired through hands-on experience or technical theater training. Familiarity with lighting consoles, power tools, and safety certifications such as OSHA are commonly required. Strong teamwork, reliability, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, seamless, and professional live event productions.

What are some common challenges stagehands face during live productions, and how can they best prepare for them?

Stagehands often face challenges such as tight schedules, last-minute changes, and the physical demands of moving heavy equipment. To best prepare, it's important to develop strong communication skills, stay organized, and maintain flexibility to adapt quickly to evolving show requirements. Building familiarity with the venue, equipment, and production cues can help minimize errors and ensure smooth transitions during performances. Wearing appropriate safety gear and following best practices for lifting and rigging are also essential for preventing injuries.

What are stagehands?

Stagehands are technical workers who assist with the setup, operation, and breakdown of equipment and scenery for live performances, such as concerts, theater productions, and events. Their duties may include moving sets, operating lighting and sound equipment, and ensuring that all backstage activities run smoothly. Stagehands play a crucial role in making sure performances go off without a hitch, often working behind the scenes before, during, and after shows.

What is the difference between Stagehands vs Lighting Technicians?

AspectStagehandsLighting Technicians
CredentialsNone required, on-the-job training commonOften requires technical certifications or training
Work EnvironmentOn stage, backstage, event venuesLighting rigs, control booths, event venues
Industry UsageBroadly used across live events, theater, concertsSpecialized in lighting setup, operation, and design

While both roles work in live event settings, Stagehands handle a variety of tasks like set construction and equipment setup, whereas Lighting Technicians focus specifically on lighting design, installation, and operation. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the entertainment industry.

More about Stagehands jobs
What cities are hiring for Stagehands jobs? Cities with the most Stagehands job openings:
What states have the most Stagehands jobs? States with the most job openings for Stagehands jobs include:
Infographic showing various Stagehands job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 40% Part Time, 10% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,374 per year, or $19.9 per hour.
Emerson Stage Production Overhires

Emerson Stage Production Overhires

Emerson College

Boston, MA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Emerson Stage Opportunities

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.

Various positions include:

  • Carpenters
  • Electricians
  • Audio-Technicians
  • Custome Stitchers
  • Scenic Painters
  • Props Artisans
  • General Stage Hands
  • Projection Technicians
  • Other Artists based upon specific production

Please note that compensation will be correlated with experience and specific skill-level, salary range seen below is the minimum standard.

Grade of Position: T01N Scheduled Weekly Hours: 36.25 Division of Office of the Arts

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.

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.