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Theatrical Rigger Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Stagehand I

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$47K - $79K/yr

... in theatrical or event production environments. They should be comfortable working with sound, lighting, rigging, and staging equipment and able to troubleshoot issues during fast-paced event ...

... in theatrical or event production environments. They should be comfortable working with sound, lighting, rigging, and staging equipment and able to troubleshoot issues during fast-paced event ...

Showing results 21-40

Theatrical Rigger information

See California salary details

$13

$25

$36

How much do theatrical rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for theatrical rigger in California is $25.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.79 and $29.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a theatrical rigger?

Theatrical riggers are specialized professionals who are responsible for installing, operating, and maintaining the rigging systems used in theaters and other performance venues. They handle the ropes, cables, pulleys, and other equipment necessary to safely move scenery, lighting, curtains, and sometimes even performers during live productions. Their work ensures that stage elements can be moved smoothly and securely, contributing to both the artistic and safety aspects of a production. Theatrical riggers must have a strong understanding of physics, safety protocols, and the technical requirements of stagecraft.

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

To thrive as a Theatrical Rigger, you need a solid understanding of rigging principles, safety regulations, and stage mechanics, often supported by relevant training or certification such as ETCP (Entertainment Technician Certification Program). Familiarity with chain hoists, truss systems, load calculation software, and safety equipment is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills ensure the safe and efficient installation and movement of scenic elements, contributing to successful and risk-free live productions.

What are some common challenges theatrical riggers face during live productions, and how are they typically addressed?

Theatrical riggers often encounter challenges such as working in tight or elevated spaces, adapting to last-minute changes in set design, and ensuring all rigging is both safe and efficient under time constraints. These challenges are typically addressed through thorough pre-show planning, regular safety inspections, and close collaboration with stage managers, lighting technicians, and other crew members. Strong communication and adaptability are essential, as unexpected adjustments may need to be made quickly to keep the production running smoothly.

What is the difference between Theatrical Rigger vs Stagehand?

AspectTheatrical RiggerStagehand
CredentialsCertifications in rigging, safety trainingGeneral labor or event setup training
Work EnvironmentTheatrical venues, theaters, concert hallsEvent venues, theaters, live shows
Industry UsageSpecialized in rigging and safety for scenery and lightingAssists with setup, teardown, and general stage tasks

While both roles work in live event settings, Theatrical Riggers focus on installing and maintaining rigging systems safely, requiring specialized certifications. Stagehands perform broader stage setup and support tasks, often with less specialized rigging training. Understanding these differences helps clarify job expectations and required skills in the entertainment industry.

How to become a theatrical rigger?

To become a theatrical rigger, individuals typically need to gain experience in stagecraft or rigging, often starting with entry-level positions or apprenticeships. Relevant skills include knowledge of rigging equipment, safety procedures, and working at heights, with certifications such as OSHA or industry-specific training being beneficial. Building a strong understanding of theatrical production and safety standards is essential for advancement in this field.

What are popular job titles related to Theatrical Rigger jobs in California?

For Theatrical Rigger jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Theatrical Rigger jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Theatrical Rigger jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Theatrical Rigger jobs?

Cities in California with the most Theatrical Rigger job openings:

Infographic showing various Theatrical Rigger job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,405 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Theatre Technician I (Part-Time)

Redondo Beach, CA

City of Redondo Beach
Public Administration • 1 - 10 employees

$26 - $30/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Assist with the maintenance and upkeep of the facility and equipment at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center.

  • Hang, focus, and operate lighting instruments and follow spotlights, and assist with sound checks.

  • Set up and tear down scenery, rigging, soft goods, and curtains, and run crew positions on shows/events as directed.


Job description

DEFINITION Under general direction of the Cultural Arts Manager, this position is accountable as a team member of the Community Services department to achieve results in support of the City's mission, goals, policies, and objectives. Theater Technicians work with the Technical Director on the maintenance and upkeep of the facility and equipment at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center. These positions are part-time, as needed, to support the robust event schedule at the Performing Arts Center.

Please note: This at-will, part-time position is not eligible for City benefits. Only those applicants in which the hiring department is interested in will receive further contact after application submission. EXAMPLES OF DUTIES, RESPONSIBILITIES AND EXPECTATIONS Theater Technician at RBPAC breaks down into four specialties, including Lighting Technician, Audio Technician, Fly Rail/Rigging Technician, and Stage Technician, and includes but is not limited to the following sample duties and responsibilities: Hang and focus lighting instruments Operate follow spotlights Set up and tear down orchestra pit Repair and maintain lighting cables Run microphone cables, backline, and assist with sound check Assist with rigging of scenery Hang, strike, and store soft goods and curtains Running crew positions on shows/events as directed Perform other related duties as assigned MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Knowledge of: Materials, equipment, regulations, principles, procedures and/or practices necessary to perform the required duties including, but not limited to technical theater and stage management techniques including: lighting and sound designs and techniques, stage sets, drawings and rigging, current theater equipment and systems; theater safety rules and practices; personal computer skills; City organization, operation, policies and objectives; applicable sections of Federal, State and local laws and codes.

Ability to: Meet the physical employment standards; use various types of technical theater equipment safely and effectively; work variable hours to organize complex technical theater productions under stress and with pressing deadlines; perform work requiring some physical strength, dexterity and endurance; communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships with others. Professional experience is preferred but entry level will be considered if willing to learn and advance. SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION CLASSIFICATION: This is an at-will, non-exempt, seasonal part-time position that is not eligible for City benefits.

SELECTION PROCESS: The selection process may include but is not limited to: Application review and evaluation, written examination, performance test and interview. All employment offers made by the City are contingent upon establishing proof of a prospective candidate's legal authorization to work in the United States and successfully passing all components of the pre-employment process. The pre-employment process may include but not be limited to: Reference checks, background investigation, fingerprint-based criminal history check, credit check, degree verification, and post-offer medical examination and drug test.

For public safety positions, including positions based in the Police and/or Fire Department(s), the pre-employment process may also include but not be limited to a P.O.S.T. compliant background check, polygraph examination, post-offer medical examination and drug test, and post-offer psychological examination. Candidates must fill out the employment application and supplemental questions completely and accurately

Required fields and supplemental questions are noted with an asterisk (*). All other fields are optional. Applications including references to "see resume" are considered incomplete and will be disqualified.

The City of Redondo Beach is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The City will provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer. Candidates with a disability who may need accommodation during the selection process must notify the Human Resources Department at least five (5) business days in advance of the test date.

Qualified Military Veterans are given an additional five points to a passing score for both open-competitive and promotional recruitments. Documentation of such service, such as a veteran identification card or DD214, must be provided along with the application for employment or before the conclusion of the testing process. Note: The provisions of this bulletin do not constitute an expressed or implied contract.

Any provision contained in this bulletin may be modified or revoked without notice. Note: The provisions of this bulletin do not constitute an expressed or implied contract. Any provision contained in this bulletin may be modified or revoked without notice.