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Theatrical Rigger Jobs in Philadelphia, PA (NOW HIRING)

QVC

Senior Production Artisan

West Chester, PA · On-site

... theatrical or entertainment lighting * High school diploma, vocational degree, or equivalent ... Demonstrated knowledge of and experience in carpentry, painting and the assembly and rigging of ...

All JobsTheatrical Rigger JobsTheatrical Rigger Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

Theatrical Rigger information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$14

$26

$36

How much do theatrical rigger jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for theatrical rigger in Philadelphia, PA is $26.25, 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 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 Philadelphia, PA?

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

What job categories do people searching Theatrical Rigger jobs in Philadelphia, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Theatrical Rigger jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:

Theatrical Rigger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Theatrical Rigger job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,606 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Theatre Technician

The Lawrenceville School

Lawrence Township, NJ • On-site

$24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Summary: Theatre Technicians will be responsible for supporting the lighting, scenery, costumes, and technical needs required of production events in the Kirby Arts Center on an on-call basis throughout the academic school year. Applicants should specify the skill sets and experience within the various areas of technical theatre that they bring to this position.
Essential Responsibilities
  • Scenic carpentry and set construction skills, including lumber cutting, pneumatic and hardware fastening, and assembly
  • Stage rigging for flying components, as necessary, within scope of electrics and scenery production needs
  • Scenic art and painting
  • Costume fabrication, sewing, and alterations, in support of the needs of a given production
  • Assisting with lighting hang, focus, and strike for productions for theatre and dance productions
  • Assisting with scenery load-in, scenic notes, and strike for productions for theatre and dance productions
  • Training of high school students, alongside Performing Arts faculty, in proper technical theatre technique, skills, and safety
  • General maintenance of lighting stock and equipment, as necessary
  • General maintenance of scenery and painting stock and equipment, as necessary
  • Other duties related to theatre production and technical needs in the Performing Arts Department, as necessary

Requirements
  • A combination of training, education, and/or experience equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's Degree in Technical Theater or related field
  • 1 - 3 years experience related to technical systems used in support of stage productions and related events
  • Principles of sounds transmission and amplification, stage lighting and stage machinery
  • Application of principles, safety protocols, and theory of electricity and stage carpentry
  • Practical knowledge, use, and repair of stage equipment and tools as related to production work in carpentry, painting, electrics, costuming, and stage operations
  • Experience with contemporary stage operations conducted in large public assembly facilities designed for multi-purpose uses.
  • Work from drawings, specifications, and oral requests to achieve desired modifications
  • Work long hours accommodating a work schedule to the requirements of load-ins, load-outs, tech days, performances, and rehearsals

Work Characteristics and Physical Demands: The work environment characteristics and physical demands described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Lift lighting equipment.
  • Lift stage bricks for the counterweight system.
  • Climb ladders.
  • Safely operate a Genie lift.
  • Climb safely through front-of-house catwalks.
  • Assist with the movement of stage scenery, pit covers, soft goods, and lighting equipment.

The Lawrenceville School is a diverse and inclusive community and makes all employment decisions without regard for an individual's race, creed, color, religion, national origin, nationality, sex, pregnancy, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, veteran status, physical or mental disability (including AIDS and HIV related illness), genetic information, refusal to provide genetic information, refusal to submit to genetic testing, ancestry, familial status, marital status, domestic partnership status, civil union status, atypical cellular or blood trait, military service, application for military service, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. The Lawrenceville School will also provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals in accordance with applicable law.
The Lawrenceville School conducts pre-employment screening for all positions which includes a criminal background check, verification of work history, academic credentials, licenses, and certifications. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of the background check.
Eligible employees receive a competitive benefit package that includes health insurance coverage, paid leave and retirement plan options and many other valuable programs.
Salary Description
$24.00 per hour

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