1

Theatrical Rigger Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Theatrical Rigger information

See Houston, TX salary details

$13

$24

$34

How much do theatrical rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for theatrical rigger in Houston, TX is $24.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.02 and $28.46 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 through apprenticeships or entry-level positions in theater or production companies. Relevant skills include knowledge of rigging equipment, safety procedures, and working at heights, with certifications such as OSHA safety training being beneficial. Building a strong understanding of theatrical systems and gaining hands-on experience are essential steps in this career path.

What are popular job titles related to Theatrical Rigger jobs in Houston, TX?

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

What job categories do people searching Theatrical Rigger jobs in Houston, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Theatrical Rigger jobs in Houston, TX are:

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Theatrical Rigger jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Theatrical Rigger job openings:

Infographic showing various Theatrical Rigger job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,677 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Assistant Professor of Theatre Design and Technology

College of the Mainland

Texas City, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Position Title
Assistant Professor of Theatre Design and Technology
FLSA
Exempt
Contract Length
12 months
Class Summary
Responsible for providing instruction within the appropriate department/program. Develop and revise curriculum and coursework. Provide scheduled office hours for student consultation. Serve on College committees as needed and assigned. Participate in student-oriented instructional and advisement activities as needed and assigned.
Position Type
Faculty
Employment Status
Full Time
Position Funding
Regular
Minimum Education/Training/Experience
Master's Degree in Theatre or Master's with 18 hours of graduate level coursework in Dramatic Arts and/or Theatre. Two (2) years of recent experience with principles and practices of teaching.
Demonstrated substantial professional experience in scenic design and technical direction beyond the secondary or postsecondary educational setting.
Preferred Education/Training/Experience
Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Scenic Design, Technical Direction, or a closely related theatre discipline. Demonstrated record of scenic design and technical direction for nationally or internationally recognized professional theatre organizations; experience teaching theatre courses at the college or university level; experience supervising scene shop operations and technical staff; designing scenery and properties for a wide variety of theatrical productions; managing production budgets, purchasing, production schedules, and shop operations. Membership in United Scenic Artists, Local USA 829 (IATSE), or the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) is preferred.Three (3) years of recent experience and knowledge of technical direction for live theatrical productions
Minimum Knowledge & Skills
  • Principles and practices of teaching.
  • Detailed knowledge of the material taught in the specific course and program area.
  • Student engagement techniques.
  • Record-keeping procedures.
  • Communication and interpersonal skills sufficient to exchange or convey information and to receive work directions as applied to interactions with students, coworkers, supervisors, and the public.
  • Ability to prepare students for employment in the theatre profession.
  • Knowledge of current scenic construction methods, materials, and scene shop practices.
  • Knowledge of technical direction for live theatrical productions.
  • Knowledge of scenic design principles and drafting techniques.
  • Knowledge of stage lighting, sound, theatrical rigging, and other technical production systems.
  • Knowledge of current theatre safety standards and safe scene shop practices.
  • Knowledge of theatre production planning and management, including scheduling, budgeting, purchasing, personnel supervision, and student-worker training.
  • Ability to manage multiple productions and meet deadlines.
  • Ability to troubleshoot and solve technical and production problems.
  • Proficiency with theatre-related technology and computer applications.
  • Knowledge of current professional theatre industry practices and standards.
  • Ability to supervise and train student workers and production crews.
  • Ability to teach Stagecraft I and II, Theatre Design, Theatre Appreciation, and other assigned theatre courses as qualified.

Preferred Knowledge & Skills
  • Familiarity with hybrid and/or online course delivery.
  • Comfort with groups containing mixed ages and abilities.
  • Advanced proficiency with CAD, digital rendering, and current theatre design technologies.
  • Knowledge of transfer pathways and professional development opportunities for theatre students.
  • Familiarity with professional and educational theatre organizations, unions, conferences, and festivals such as KCACTF, SETC, USITT, United Scenic Artists, IATSE, or similar organizations.

Job Duties
  • Comply with all College policies and procedures and applicable safety standards to maintain a positive learning environment, support College activities, and attend required meetings and training.
  • Ensure high-quality programming that supports the College's mission, vision, and values.
  • Teach assigned theatre courses and maintain instructional records in accordance with College policies and procedures.
  • Maintain a minimum of 7.5 scheduled office hours per week.
  • Serve as technical director for five COM Theatre Mainstage productions each year, with seven course releases provided during each academic year.
  • Design scenery and properties for each production for the annual theatre season.
  • Coordinate the technical production process for each production in collaboration with directors, designers, guest artists, and other production personnel.
  • Direct all scenic construction, painting, installation, and strike activities for theatre productions.
  • Mentor student productions in the Theatre Studio and support other Studio Theatre productions as needed.
  • Manage all scene shop operations, including planning, scheduling, safety, inventory, purchasing, and student supervision.
  • Supervise student workers and production crews, including responsibilities related to hiring, discipline, and termination.
  • Manage the hiring, contracting, scheduling, and payment coordination of guest artists and student workers.
  • Supervise students participating in theatre-related events, travel, productions, and other activities.
  • Manage theatre facilities and production equipment within the scope of the position.
  • Supervise the maintenance, repair, inventory, and purchasing of theatre equipment, tools, supplies, and materials.
  • Coordinate production photography and archival video arrangements.
  • Participate in student recruitment and retention initiatives.
  • Coordinate and implement student recruitment performances and educational outreach activities.
  • Serve on College committees and participate in shared governance activities as assigned.
  • Maintain professional credentials and participate in ongoing professional development.
  • Perform other duties of a similar nature or level as assigned, including lighting and sound design when qualified and as needed.

Licensing/Certification Requirements
none
Physical Requirements
  • Positions in this class typically require: climbing, reaching, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, and seeing.
  • Medium Work: Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
  • Incumbents may be subjected to moving mechanical parts, electrical currents, inadequate lighting, workspace restrictions, and travel.

Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
F312P
Candidates that are eligible apply
Internal/External
Special Instructions to Applicant
Please NOTE: All applications must contain complete job histories, which include job title, dates of employment (month/year), name of employer, supervisor's name and phone numbers and a description of duties performed. If this information is not submitted, your application may be considered incomplete. Applications with "See attached" or "See resume" will not be accepted in lieu of a complete application. Omission of data can be the basis for disqualification; you may state "unknown" for any incomplete fields. A scanned copy of unofficial transcript(s) must be attached to the online application.
Minimum Salary Range
Masters: $60,225 - Doctorate: $71,816
Mid Point Salary Range
Maximum Salary Range
Masters: $78,298 - Doctorate: $93,355
Posting Open Date
07/29/2026
Posting Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Quick Link for Direct Access to Posting
https://jobs.com.edu/postings/4680
EEO Statement
College of the Mainland is an affirmative action/equal opportunity institution and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, disability or veteran status.
College of the Mainland does not discriminate on the basis of disability in the recruitment and admission of students, the recruitment and employment of faculty and staff, and the operation of its programs and activities, as specified by federal laws and regulations within Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and 1992.