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Theatre Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Design Engineer III

Orlando, FL · On-site

$70K - $96K/yr

BA/BS/BFA in technical theater, engineering, architecture, industrial design, product design, and 5+ years of experience working in a related technical field * Background in 3D CAD modeling

Bachelor's degree or technical/vocational training in Technical Theater, Engineering, or related field preferred * Equivalent hands-on experience accepted Experience * 4-6 years of experience in live ...

... Theatre's efforts to be an anti-racist organization. * To be considered for "Lightboard Programmer," applicants must have skill programming complex sequences with multi-parameter fixtures on ETC EOS ...

... Theatre's efforts to be an anti-racist organization. * To be considered for "Lightboard Programmer," applicants must have skill programming complex sequences with multi-parameter fixtures on ETC EOS ...

Mechanical Design Engineer III

Lititz, PA · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

BA/BS/BFA in technical theater, engineering, architecture, industrial design, product design, and 5+ years of experience working in a related technical field * Background in 3D CAD modeling

Mechanical Design Engineer III

Lititz, PA · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

BA/BS/BFA in technical theater, engineering, architecture, industrial design, product design, and 5+ years of experience working in a related technical field * Background in 3D CAD modeling

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Theatre Engineering information

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$75K

$114.3K

$152.5K

How much do theatre engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for theatre engineering in the United States is $114,331.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $128,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Theatre Engineering position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Theatre Engineer, you need a solid grounding in mechanical and electrical engineering principles, experience with stage machinery, and typically a degree in engineering or a related technical field. Familiarity with industry-standard systems such as AutoCAD, lighting control software, and stage automation tools is important, as are certifications in relevant safety and rigging practices. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and excellent communication help Theatre Engineers coordinate effectively with production teams and respond quickly to technical issues. These abilities are vital for ensuring the safety, reliability, and seamless execution of live performances in theatrical venues.

What is a Theatre Engineering job?

A Theatre Engineering job involves designing, maintaining, and operating the technical systems used in theaters, such as stage machinery, lighting, sound, and rigging. Theatre engineers work closely with production teams to ensure that performances run smoothly and safely. They may also develop innovative solutions for stage automation and special effects. This role requires a combination of engineering expertise and a deep understanding of theatrical production.

What are some typical challenges Theatre Engineers face during live productions?

Theatre Engineers often encounter unique challenges such as troubleshooting technical malfunctions under tight time constraints and adapting to last-minute production changes. They are responsible for ensuring all stage equipment and automation systems operate smoothly and safely, often coordinating with lighting, sound, and set design teams on the fly. Flexibility and quick thinking are crucial, as issues can arise unexpectedly during rehearsals or live shows. The fast-paced, collaborative environment makes the work exciting, but also demands careful planning and the ability to remain calm under pressure.

More about Theatre Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Theatre Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Theatre Engineering job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Theatre Engineering jobs? The most popular types of Theatre Engineering jobs are:
What states have the most Theatre Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Theatre Engineering jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Theatre Engineering jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Theatre Engineering jobs are:
Infographic showing various Theatre Engineering job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, and 53% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $114,331 per year, or $55 per hour.
Lightboard Programmer/Operator

Lightboard Programmer/Operator

CHILDRENS THEATRE COMPANY

Minneapolis, MN

$25.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Children’s Theatre Company (CTC) is seeking qualified candidates with a background in running lighting consoles, moving light programming and lighting software for the position of Light Board Programmer/Operator.  This is a seasonal benefits eligible position that is guaranteed at least 40 weeks of full-time work each season and is part of a collective bargaining agreement with IATSE Local 13, AFL-CIO.  This position requires someone who is knowledgeable about lighting console programming, theatrical lighting instruments and dimmers, interpreting lighting plots and who has the ability to positively contribute to an anti-racist/anti-bias organization.  Applicants for this role should have creative problem-solving skills, analytical abilities, and strong interpersonal skills.

CTC is committed to equity, diversity, inclusion and justice in our organization and our community, and thus we seek a broad spectrum of employees.  We strongly encourage and welcome applicants who are Black, Indigenous or People of Color, as well as those who are from other underrepresented communities. 

ORGANIZATION DESCRIPTION

Led by Artistic Director Rick Dildine and Managing Director Ryan French, Children's Theatre Company (CTC) is the nation’s leading theatre for multigenerational audiences and is one of the 25 largest producing theatres in the United States. A winner of the Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre, CTC creates extraordinary theatre experiences that educate, challenge and inspire young people. It has set standards of excellence in the quality of its productions, commitment to new work, and innovative education and community partnerships.

DESCRIPTION OF MINNEAPOLIS AND THE TWIN CITIES METRO AREA

Minneapolis and the Twin Cities area has a thriving and vibrant arts scene.  The Twin Cities metro area is one of the largest theatre markets in the country, with over 150 theatres.  Minnesota year in and year out ranks near the top nationwide in federal and state arts funding and has a strong history of private arts philanthropy. 

The Twin Cities area is the second largest economic center in the Midwest and is annually ranked as a top area in terms of quality of life.  It is home to several restaurants and chefs who are James Beard nominees or winners.  The Minneapolis parks system has been called the best-designed, best-financed and best-maintained in America. 

DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION STATEMENT

CTC is dedicated to increasing equity, diversity and inclusion in our audiences, our programs and in all of our hiring for staff, artists, and recruiting of board members.  CTC is committed to a future where our theatre is a home for all people, all families, and is truly reflective of our community.  We are also committed to providing a work environment that is free from discrimination.  CTC prohibits discrimination in employment against any employee or job applicant because of that person’s race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, sex, national origin, disability, genetic information, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, veteran status, status with regard to public assistance, membership in a local human rights commission or any other legally protected status.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Lighting Board Programmer/Operator programs and operates the lighting console for productions on the UnitedHealth Group Stage and Cargill Stage. The person in this position is also responsible for maintaining the lighting equipment and design throughout the run of the show. This position is covered by a CBA with I.A.T.S.E. Local #13.

This position reports to the Lighting and Video Director.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Lighting Programming and Maintenance

  • Responsible for programming the lighting console for UnitedHealth Group Stage and Cargill Stage productions and events; also responsible for running shows as the schedule allows
  • Must be able to work closely with the lighting designer to assist with the realization of the lighting design
  • Responsible for maintaining the lighting equipment used in each production (i.e. daily lamp and focus check)
  • Act as one of the staff electricians during load-ins, focus, changeovers and strikes
  • Occasionally act as supervisor during changeovers and strikes

Collaborate with all staff in the furtherance of CTC’s goal of being an anti-racist/anti-bias theatre that works towards Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

  • Encourage and empower everyone to speak out against racist and/or biased workplace practices and policies
  • Study topics that lead to a deeper understanding of how white supremacy, racial violence, and systemic racism have shaped American society and how that shapes CTC’s workplace and the lives of CTC employees
  • Positively contribute to the ACT One platform, creating a future where our theatre is a home for all people, all families, reflective of our community

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Accurate - Ability to perform work accurately and thoroughly
  • Analytical Skills - Ability to use thinking and reasoning to solve a problem
  • Creative - Ability to think in such a way as to produce a new concept or idea
  • Communication, Oral - Ability to communicate effectively with others using the spoken word
  • Detail Oriented - Ability to pay attention to the minute details of a project or task
  • Diversity Oriented – Ability to work effectively with people regardless of their age, gender, race, ethnicity, religion or physical abilities 
  • Inclusive – Skill and value of providing equal access of opportunities and resources for people who might otherwise be excluded or marginalized 
  • Interpersonal - Ability to get along well with a variety of personalities and individuals
  • Organized - Possessing the trait of being organized or following a systematic method of performing a task
  • Patience - Ability to act calmly under stress and strain, and of not being hasty or impetuous
  • Problem Solving - Ability to find a solution for or to deal proactively with work-related problems
  • Technical Aptitude - Ability to comprehend complex technical topics and specialized information

    Experience

  • Demonstrated ability on ETC EOS family lighting consoles or similar computerized lighting consoles
  • Demonstrated ability in moving light programming
  • Must be able to interpret Lighting Plots and Architectural Drawings 
  • Basic knowledge of Vectorworks and Lightwright software preferred 
  • Intermediate knowledge of Windows and Mac operating systems
  • Must have demonstrated working knowledge of the following: theatrical lighting instruments and dimmers, small power tools, counter-weight fly systems
  • Knowledge of safety best practices, fall protection; OSHA 10 or 30 preferred
  • Good knowledge of NEC codes for the Theater, basic electrical wiring, basic electronics
  • Intermediate knowledge of Ethernet protocols, networking, and data distribution
  • Must be comfortable working in high places

Other Qualities 

  • A commitment to ethical conduct in all respects of the work environment 
  • A commitment to creating a just, equitable and inclusive work environment 
  • A commitment to the protection of confidential information to which this position has access   
  • Ability to positively contribute to an anti-racist/anti-bias organization and work to dismantle structural racism in theatre 
COMPENSATION

The minimum starting wage for this position is $25.75 per hour.  Benefits include medical, dental and vision insurance; short-term and long-term disability and life insurance; vacation and sick leave; nine paid holidays; and a 403(b)-retirement savings plan.