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Theatrical Rigger Jobs in Milwaukee, WI (NOW HIRING)

CTI

Live Event Technician

West Milwaukee, WI

Candidates with backgrounds in lighting, rigging, concert production, theater production, convention centers, corporate events, or audiovisual event support are encouraged to apply. * Equipment ...

CTI

Live Event Technician

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Candidates with backgrounds in lighting, rigging, concert production, theater production, convention centers, corporate events, or audiovisual event support are encouraged to apply. * Equipment ...

All JobsTheatrical Rigger JobsTheatrical Rigger Jobs in Milwaukee, WI

Theatrical Rigger information

See Milwaukee, WI salary details

$13

$25

$35

How much do theatrical rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for theatrical rigger in Milwaukee, WI is $25.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.74 and $29.38 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.

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The top searched job categories for Theatrical Rigger jobs in Milwaukee, WI are:

Theatrical Rigger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Theatrical Rigger job openings in Milwaukee, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,315 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Rigging Design Engineer - Clearwing

West Allis, WI • On-site

Clair Global Corporation
Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation • 51 - 200 employees

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 78 rated media

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about Clair Global Corporationexternal

$78K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Function:
The position of Rigging Design Engineer will involve supporting the Operations and Installation teams in the drafting of equipment floor plans, reflected ceiling plans, elevations, sections, and details of mounted and rigged equipment, converting measurements or 2D drawings of physical environments into 3D models, and addressing installation-related questions from the field.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Supports the Engineering and Operations Teams:
    • Attend, design, and project kick-off meetings, as well as other project-related meetings as necessary.
    • Draft equipment floor plans, reflected ceiling plans, elevations, sections, and details of mounted and rigged equipment, such as speaker arrays, projection systems, drapery track systems, and dead-hung, counterweight, and automated rigging systems.
    • Developing bills of material/hardware schedules of drafted rigging systems to support the Operations team in ordering and staging rigging hardware.
    • Convert measurements and/or 2D drawings of physical environments into 3D models to facilitate other colleagues modeling speaker array systems during the pre-sales phase and drafting shop/build drawings in Revit in the engineering phase.
    • Collaborate with AV and lighting-specific engineers on construction drawings for interdisciplinary projects (AVLRD).
    • Review drawing packages drafted by other engineers as needed.
    • Review existing bills-of-material for functional completeness per the scope of work of the project.
    • Author change orders for contracted projects as needed.
    • Respond to technical questions from the Operations team during installation and update installation documentation as needed according to installation schedules.
  • Support The Clearwing Group:
    • Develop and maintain knowledge of current and new technologies the company offers.
    • Maintain relationships with vendors through meetings, educational sessions, and consistent communication.
    • Assist in the development and implementation of technical standards and processes.
    • Collaborate with the Engineering Manager to develop and maintain a consistent continuing education plan.

Skill/Experience Requirements:
  • Extensive knowledge of performance rigging and scenic systems, including 5 years of design, installation, technical theatrical, or touring/production experience.
  • High proficiency in Autodesk AutoCAD and/or Autodesk REVIT and experience in SketchUp.
  • In-depth knowledge of construction documentation, including floor plans, RCPs, building sections, schematics, and riser diagrams.
  • Understanding of consultant specification documentation.
  • Ability to effectively manage multiple tasks simultaneously and meet or exceed project-driven deadlines.
  • Ability and desire to work in a team-oriented and interdisciplinary culture.
  • A mentality of constant process improvement.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ownership and use of a smartphone for app-based communication platforms such as Microsoft Teams, Outlook, etc.

Skill/Experience Preferences:
  • Working knowledge of audio system modeling programs such as Soundvision
  • Certifications:
    • ETCP Certified Rigger - Theatre
    • ETC Rigging Authorized Service Provider

Physical Working Conditions:
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee will be required to sit, talk, hear, reach, stoop, kneel, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer, telephone, keyboard, tablets, and smartphones
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision requirements due to computer work
  • Ability to sit at a computer for an extended period
  • Light to moderate lifting may be required
  • Regular, predictable attendance is required

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