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Theatrical Rigger Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Theatrical Rigger information

See Wisconsin salary details

$14

$26

$36

How much do theatrical rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for theatrical rigger in Wisconsin is $26.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.27 and $30.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are theatrical riggers?

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 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.

How to become a stage rigger?

To become a theatrical stage rigger, individuals typically need to gain experience in theater or construction, learn to operate rigging tools and equipment, and understand safety protocols. Many pursue relevant training or apprenticeships, and obtaining certifications such as OSHA safety training can improve job prospects.

What is a theatre rigger?

A theatrical rigger is a professional responsible for installing, maintaining, and operating the equipment used to hang and move scenery, lighting, and other stage elements in a theater. They use tools like hoists, pulleys, and rigging hardware, often working at heights and requiring safety certifications. Their work ensures the safe and efficient setup of stage productions.

How much do entertainment riggers make?

Entertainment riggers typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $70,000 depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Skilled riggers with certifications and experience working on large productions can earn higher wages, especially in major entertainment hubs or for specialized tasks.

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 is the highest paying rigger job?

The highest paying rigger jobs are often in the entertainment industry, such as head riggers for large touring productions or film productions, where salaries can exceed $80,000 annually. Experienced riggers with specialized skills, certifications, and the ability to work in high-risk environments tend to earn the most.

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.

What are popular job titles related to Theatrical Rigger jobs in Wisconsin? For Theatrical Rigger jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Theatrical Rigger jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Theatrical Rigger jobs in Wisconsin are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Theatrical Rigger jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Theatrical Rigger job openings:
Infographic showing various Theatrical Rigger job openings in Wisconsin as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $54,620 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Lighting Supervisor (Head Lighting)

Confluence Council Inc

Eau Claire, WI • On-site

$17 - $23.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Description:

SCOPE OF REPSONSIBILITIES

The primary responsibility of the Lighting Supervisor is to oversee the production lighting department and implement lighting needs for events presented by and/or at the Pablo Center. This position helps lead the Production Team to execute production details of multiple events, with many occurring simultaneously or in close sequence in Pablo Center’s two theatres and alternate event spaces. The Lighting Supervisor will creatively solve production problems while working within the guidelines of labor and rental agreements, budgets, existing inventory, available schedule; and in keeping with the policies, procedures, and standards of Pablo Center. The Lighting Supervisor will manage and maintain the lighting inventories for Pablo Center as well as assist in establishing standards and procedures for lighting systems throughout the Center.


The Lighting Supervisor will ensure UWEC campus events held at Pablo Center are adequately lit, such as Department of Music concerts and Chancellor’s Office events. In addition, the Lighting Supervisor will provide support for community events held at Pablo Center in roles ranging from technician, advisor, or mentor.


This is a full-time, exempt position. As such, the Lighting Supervisor must be able to work flexible shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays as determined by the Pablo Center calendar.


This staff member is responsible for upholding the Pablo Center Mission through dedicated job performance and service excellence, with a commitment to holistic student development, and will exhibit behaviors that properly represent Pablo Center’s mission, vision and values including taking substantive measures to create and maintain an inclusive environment free of bias, leading and communicating in a way that champions diversity, and creating inclusive awareness for greater understanding of diversity.


PRINCIPAL FUNCTIONS & DUTIES

? Serve as House Electrician/House Lighting Designer/House Lighting Director for events presented by Pablo Center – including national touring productions – and for constituent productions as needed.

? Advise affiliate theatre companies on Pablo Center lighting standards and procedures.

? Maintain lighting equipment, track lighting inventory, and keep accurate light plots and paperwork.

? Conduct lighting calls as needed to advance, strike and restore light plots as well as perform maintenance.

? Assist in training crew on safe, professional standards for lighting installation and care.

? Assist with advancing shows and providing visiting Designers and Technicians with accurate information.

? Serve as House LD and/or Board Op for certain events presented by Pablo Center as needed.

? Coordinate crew and work assignments with other Pablo Center departments.

? Participate in training for position, safety, first aid, and emergency procedures.

? Follow the employee handbook and code of conduct.

? Know safety protocols for lighting work and alert staff when safety is an issue.

? Wear PPE in accordance with current building, county health, and OSHA guidelines.

? Work collaboratively for extended periods of time in close proximity (i.e., distances under five feet) with Artists, Patrons, Students, Community Members, and Pablo Center Staff.

? Other duties as assigned or as experience and opportunity allow.

Requirements:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

? At least 18 years of age.

? Bachelor’s degree in a relevant area of study from a nationally accredited institution or comparable professional experience.

? Previously demonstrated strong leadership, mentoring and training experience in performing arts production.

? Production experience in venues of varying sizes.

? Minimum of 2 – 4 years of professional experience in theatrical or concert lighting. ? Knowledge and understanding of principles of lighting design and technology, and electrical safety.

? Fluent in conventional, LED and moving light fixtures, including hang, focus, circuiting, and patching.

? Able to read a light plot and lighting paperwork and effectively communicate data to crew.

? Strong, effective, and positive interpersonal and communication skills.

? Fixture repair and maintenance skills

? Positive completion of a criminal background check

? Valid driver’s license.


PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

? B.A. or B.F.A. in Theatre or comparable professional experience; with training in multiple departments of technical theatre and production design including – but not limited to – lighting, rigging, projections, audio, stagecraft, and stage management.

? Previous professional experience in theatre and live production as a Production Electrician/L1.

? Able to program within the EOS family of consoles. Pablo Center uses the ETC Gio@5 in both main spaces

? Experience with automated lighting programming and DMX protocols.

? Computer proficiency as it relates to current lighting and projections technology, preferably in both Mac and Windows environments.

? Working knowledge of Vectorworks Spotlight and Lightwright 6.

? Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite including Word, Excel, PowerPoint

? Experience in a training role and managing people of varying backgrounds and skill sets in professional and pre-professional environments.

? Able to effectively lead a group, work within a group, and work independently.

? Organized, attentive, accountable, and creative.

? Effective at prioritising, troubleshooting and problem-solving.

? Strong interest in providing a superior experience to artists and audiences.

? Established commitment to maintaining a safe work environment.


PHYSICAL DEMANDS

? Must be willing to work on ladders and at heights exceeding 25’ in bucket, boom, or scissor lifts.

? Must be able to work independently in elevated, exposed workspaces such as front-of-house catwalk positions, lighting grids, and fly towers.

? Must be able to properly use fall-protection equipment.

? Must have manual dexterity to efficiently operate a keyboard, use hand tools, and grasp small objects.