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$30K

$156.3K

$206K

How much do technical theater jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for technical theater in the United States is $156,348.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,000.00 and $205,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Technical Theater, and why are they important?

To thrive in Technical Theater, you need a solid understanding of stagecraft, lighting, sound, and set construction, often supported by a degree or certificate in theater production or related experience. Familiarity with technical tools like lighting consoles, audio boards, rigging systems, and CAD software is typically required. Strong teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail help you adapt to fast-paced and dynamic production environments. These competencies are essential for ensuring seamless performances and maintaining safety and efficiency behind the scenes.

What does a theater technician do?

A theater technician is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining technical equipment such as lighting, sound, and stage machinery for performances. They ensure safety standards are met and work closely with production teams to support smooth show operations, often using tools like DMX controllers and rigging systems. The role typically requires technical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of safety protocols.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in technical theater, and how can they be managed?

Technical theater professionals often encounter challenges such as tight production schedules, last-minute changes, and complex technical setups. Managing these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills, effective communication with directors and crew, and the ability to adapt quickly to unexpected situations. Collaborating closely with designers, stage managers, and performers also helps ensure smooth transitions and successful show runs. Staying organized and maintaining a proactive approach to troubleshooting are key strategies for thriving in this dynamic environment.

What can I do with a technical theatre degree?

A technical theatre degree prepares individuals for roles such as stage technician, lighting designer, sound engineer, set designer, or production manager. Graduates often work in live performance venues, theaters, or touring productions, utilizing skills in lighting, sound, set construction, and stage management. Certifications in operating specific equipment and hands-on experience are valuable for career advancement.

What is the difference between Technical Theater vs Stage Manager?

AspectTechnical TheaterStage Manager
CredentialsRelevant technical certifications, theater trainingOften includes stage management courses, leadership training
Work EnvironmentBehind the scenes, technical areas, equipment setupOn stage, coordinating rehearsals and performances
Industry UsageUsed across theaters, concerts, eventsPrimarily in theater productions
Primary FocusLighting, sound, set design, technical setupCoordination, communication, scheduling

Technical Theater involves managing technical aspects like lighting, sound, and set design, focusing on the technical execution of productions. Stage Managers oversee the entire production process, coordinating rehearsals and performances. Both roles are essential in theater but differ in responsibilities and focus areas.

What is the average salary of a theatre technician?

The average salary of a theatre technician typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of productions. Skilled technicians with certifications in lighting, sound, or stage management may earn higher wages, especially in larger or more prominent venues.

Is theatre tech a good career?

Theatre technicians, or stagehands, work with lighting, sound, and set design in live performance environments. The career offers opportunities for creativity and hands-on work, but often involves irregular hours, physical demands, and entry-level positions with variable pay. Success typically requires technical skills, certifications, and experience in a fast-paced setting.

What is technical theater?

Technical theater refers to the behind-the-scenes aspects of theater production, including lighting, sound, set design, costumes, props, and stage management. Professionals in technical theater work to create the visual and auditory elements that support the storytelling on stage. Their work is crucial for creating atmosphere, ensuring actors are seen and heard, and bringing the director's vision to life. Careers in technical theater can involve specialized roles such as lighting technician, set designer, sound engineer, and stage manager.
More about Technical Theater jobs
What cities are hiring for Technical Theater jobs? Cities with the most Technical Theater job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Technical Theater jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Technical Theater jobs are:
Technical Theater jobs near you
Infographic showing various Technical Theater job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 6% Temporary, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $156,348 per year, or $75.2 per hour.

Technical Theatre - On Call

Children's Theatre Charlotte

Charlotte, NC • On-site

$15/hr

Part-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Part-time, Temporary
Description
We create exceptional theatre experiences, inspiring generations to explore the wonder of their world.
Children's Theatre of Charlotte (CTC) is proud to be an organization where a dynamic mix of talented, committed, and enthusiastic people gather to do their best work. As we inspire generations to explore the wonder of our world, we desire to see the unique and amazing, expanding tapestry of this world and community reflected in all our programming, behind the scenes, and in our team members, board, and volunteers.
WHAT WE DO...
Children's Theatre of Charlotte is a national leader in Theatre for Young Audiences and is recognized for the breadth and strength of its programs. We are dedicated to creating vibrant and engaging theatre experiences, both on the stage and in the classroom. Our typical season consists of large book musicals, as well as more intimate productions. Generally, we produce 7 - 9 Mainstage shows, 2 elementary school tours, and a preschool tour annually. We are a professional theatre creating shows for children, not by children, however we generally cast student actors in one or two shows throughout the season. Our production season runs September to June.
WHAT YOU WILL DO...
We rely on our on-call Theatre Technical Staff to provide their technical theatre expertise in all areas of the technical theatre fields including costumes, lighting, sound, loading, rigging, prop and carpentry. These are as-needed, project based jobs that vary from show to show and season to season.
Considering joining our team if:
  • You are open to project based work that can last for 1-2 days up to 3-4 weeks.
  • You have the flexibility to occasionally work nights and weekends
  • You need supplemental income and enjoy a variety of project-based technical theatre jobs.

Requirements
PRODUCTION/SCENIC CREW
  • Carpenters - Responsible for the construction of set pieces. Carpentry skills are essential. Welding experience a plus. Assist with load-ins, load-outs, scenic notes, and other duties as assigned.
  • Scenic Artists - Assisting Charge Scenic on painting and finishing scenic elements and backdrops. Scenic painting and/or fine art skills are essential
  • Props Artisans - assist the Prop Supervisor in all activities and safety of the Prop Shop and storage spaces. Assist in the construction, fabrication and acquisition of all props for performance and rehearsal for all shows in a timely fashion. Assist in the maintenance and repair of props for all performances. Help document and maintain props from rented packages. Maintain a safe, secure, clean + organized office, shop and work space Fabricate all hand props, set dressing and furniture for productions. Necessary skills may include upholstery, carpentry, model building, etc.
  • Run Crew - Assists in the supervision and operation in the technical aspects of a production during a performance. A background in theatrical carpentry is helpful, but not essential. Experience working in a backstage theatre environment is a plus. Must be capable of lifting / moving 25lbs +, be reliable and a good time keeper. CTC is willing to train based on skill level.

ELECTRICS DEPARTMENT
  • Electricians -Ability to read plots and paperwork. Load-in and changing over lighting and electrical elements for each show. Keep the electrics shop and work areas clean and safe. Ability to safely lift 50+lbs. Ability to work safely at height 15'+. Experience with rigging and fly system and experience loading and unloading weight from a fly system preferred. Communication skills, ability to work independently and with a time and a positive attitude are a must. Must have the ability to multi-task and work quickly with attention to detail. Knowledge of lighting software programs (Vectorworks, Lightwright, EOS) preferred.
  • Lightboard Operators - Running light board for some rehearsals and all schedule performances of show assigned to. Check and maintain equipment during production runs. Pre/Post show duties as required by the production. Requires general knowledge of theatrical lighting equipment, ability to read lighting paperwork and plot; operate ETC Eos Family consoles. Programming knowledge is a plus. Must be able to operate common power tools; able to safely lift 50+lbs; able to work safely at height 15'+. Experience with fly systems preferred. Communication skills, ability to work independently and with a time and a positive attitude are a must.
  • Spotlight Operators - Experience operating a spotlight in a theatre setting. Is reliable, detail oriented, and has a positive attitude. Training is available based on skill level. Working at heights is essential.

SOUND DEPARTMENT
  • Soundboard Operators - Must be familiar proficient with Q-Lab. Responsible for tuning the house and running the cues for the show among other duties. operates the theatre's audio control system.
  • Sound Mixer - A more skilled Soundboard Operator necessary for larger shows in which mics are worn. Experience in line mixing is essential.
  • A2 -Assist with load-in of audio system, mic set up for cast, getting actors into mics and maintaining wireless mics during performances. Previous experience running mics.

COSTUME SHOP DEPARTMENT
  • Costume Shop Stitchers - Stitches, alters, and finishes all costumes under the supervision of the Lead Cutter/ Draper and the Costume Shop Manager. Must have demonstrated experience in hand and machine sewing techniques (industrial or domestic), and excellent garment construction skills. Needs to be able to follow directions, with previous professional theatrical costume shop experience preferred. Needs strong time-management skills and interpersonal skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced, energized, and quickly changing environment. Must have a proactive approach to problem-solving with strong decision-making skills. Needs to be detail-oriented, with the ability to prioritize efficiently and multi-task, be self-directed, and take initiative. Physical requirements and working conditions include prolonged periods of sitting and working on a sewing machine and the ability to lift and move 25 lbs. Typical working hours are during the day, with possible weekend/ holiday flexibility needed.
  • Wardrobe Supervisor - Supervises all Wardrobe Run Crew. Has the same listed responsibilities as Wardrobe Run Crew, as well as creating and executing the proper cleaning schedule for all garments, ensuring that laundry is done on a regular basis between performances. Coordinates and creates backstage paperwork in conjunction with stage management, costume shop management, and the costume designer, including assigning Wardrobe Run Crew tasks throughout the run of a show, and quick-change plots. Must have knowledge of all Wardrobe Run Crew running tracks in the case of an absence. Regularly inventories and inspects all costumes and coordinates all costume repairs. Must be a qualified seamstress in the case of costume repair emergencies during a show. Coordinates strike at the end of a show run, including all in-house laundry or sending out dry-cleaning. Ensures that costumes look as fresh and new for the last performance as they did on opening night. Either adds elements to aid in quick-changes or coordinates such needs with the costume shop.
  • Wardrobe Run Crew - Responsible for the care and proper maintenance, repair, and daily cleaning of all costumes, shoes, undergarments, hats, and costume-related personal props, such as gloves, jewelry, parasols, fans, and pocketbooks. Assists actors in quick changes. A background in sewing required, with additional knowledge in makeup/ hair preferred.

Hourly wages start at $15.00/hour.
Salary Description
Starts at $15.00/Hour

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