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Theatrical Rigging Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Object Construction, Inc.

Technical Drafter

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$23.75 - $30.50/hr

Knowledge of theatrical rigging techniques & structural design for theater, film, and TV sets. * Extensive knowledge of construction materials, hardware, and adhesives used in scenic and production ...

THE OLD GLOBE

Carpenter

San Diego, CA · On-site

$28.27/hr

Install scenic machinery, electronics, and theatrical rigging as required. * Ensure all work meets construction standards and project deadlines. * Communicate progress and issues to supervisors ...

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Theatrical Rigging information

See California salary details

$13

$25

$36

How much do theatrical rigging jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for theatrical rigging 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 types of productions or venues might I work in as a theatrical rigger?

As a theatrical rigger, you can work in a wide range of environments, including theaters, concert halls, arenas, convention centers, and even temporary outdoor stages for festivals or touring shows. Depending on the venue, you might be responsible for installing and operating rigging systems for theatrical scenery, lighting, sound equipment, or special effects. Collaborating with lighting designers, stage managers, and other technicians is common, and each production may present unique rigging challenges and safety considerations. This diversity ensures that the work remains dynamic and offers opportunities to build experience across various types of events and venues, enhancing your career development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Theatrical Rigging position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Theatrical Rigging, you need strong mechanical aptitude, understanding of load calculations, and safety awareness, often supported by specialized training or certifications such as ETCP (Entertainment Technician Certification Program). Familiarity with rigging hardware, hoists, counterweight systems, and industry-standard safety protocols is essential for the role. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with stage crews and respond promptly to changing production demands. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and seamless execution of complex stage productions.

What is a Theatrical Rigging job?

A theatrical rigging job involves setting up, operating, and maintaining the systems used to lift and move scenery, lighting, and other stage elements safely. Riggers work with pulleys, counterweights, motors, and automation to create seamless transitions during live performances. They must understand weight distribution, load limits, and safety protocols to ensure the stability of rigged equipment. The job can require climbing, working at heights, and collaborating closely with stagehands and technical staff.

What are the most commonly searched types of Theatrical Rigging jobs in California? The most popular types of Theatrical Rigging jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Theatrical Rigging jobs in California? For Theatrical Rigging jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Theatrical Rigging jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Theatrical Rigging jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Theatrical Rigging jobs? Cities in California with the most Theatrical Rigging job openings:
Theatrical Rigging jobs near you
Infographic showing various Theatrical Rigging job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 11% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,405 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Entertainment Specialist, SeaWorld San Diego, Full-Time

Seaworldentertainment

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

What you get to do:

  • Supports the theming & technical teams in the upgrade of existing park shows, events, festivals, and attractions.
  • Maintains project liaison status to communicate scheduling of timelines, guest impact, site visits, and additional department project involvement.
  • Contributes to continuous Entertainment development and evolution by researching and presenting new technological enhancement options.
  • Develop install, implementation, and strike schedules for combined in-house and contracted services with deadline accountability.
  • Maintains a flow of purchasing by monitoring issuances of purchase orders, collection of vendor clearance paperwork, and proper invoicing.
  • Provides a high level of professional expertise in the areas of technical stagecraft, theatrical rigging, special effects, lighting, scenery, theming, and technical design.
  • Plays a critical role as our link to outside show producers, consultants, and contractors.
  • Ensures that our operation is compliant with corporate safety industry standards as well as federal, state, and local statutes related to safety and the environment.
  • Assists with scope development, budget creation, bid process, vendor selection, equipment purchase, and installation supervision.
  • Design review of lighting, audio, video, special effects, safety rigging, and show control systems.
  • Provides project updates to the park management team.
  • Occasionally may assist other locations/areas throughout the park as needed.
  • Other duties as assigned.
  • Supervises labor hours for specific work units from 20 to 80 hours per week based on project needs. Supervises and maintains cleanliness and safety standards of equipment including theatrical rigging and infrastructure as it relates to the project install.

Compensation:

  • 22.75 USD Hourly

What it takes to succeed:

  • Thorough knowledge of technical theater including rigging, theater safety, audio, lighting, video, and digital media, special effects, theatrical scenery, and all other elements of stagecraft
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Excellent organizational, planning, and communication skills and have the ability to work independently in a self-directed manner
  • Computer skills including MS Word, Excel, and internal purchasing systems.
  • AutoCAD drafting experience preferred.
  • Comfortable to learn and to operate a high reach, and forklift and work at heights up to 90 feet
  • Able to occasionally lift/move greater than 25 pounds (but less than 50) unassisted
  • Able to handle multiple tasks and work on several projects simultaneously in a fast-paced work environment
  • Strong leadership abilities and skills in planning, organization, implementation and follow-through
  • Able to work outdoors in various weather conditions including cold and rain
  • Able to work weekends, holidays, early morning, and late evenings
  • A valid driver's license

What else is important:

  • Minimum of a two-year degree from community college, vocational training, or technical trade school.
  • Four-year college degree in Theater or related discipline preferred.
  • A minimum of three years theatrical or theme park experience.
  • A minimum of two years in a leadership role related to live event productions: technical theater operations, concert, and festival and/or event production.
  • Two years of Project Management or Coordination preferred.
  • Proven knowledge of technical discipline preferred.

EEO Employer:

SEAWORLD PARKS & ENTERTAINMENT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. ALL APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED WITHOUT REGARD TO AGE, RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, SEX, NATIONAL ORIGIN, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, PREGNANCY, GENDER IDENTITY OR EXPRESSION, DISABILITY OR COVERED VETERAN STATUS.

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