Stagehand job description template
If you are hiring for this role, start here. This free template is our detailed definition of the position, with everything you need to find and hire the right person. Copy it, add your own requirements, and post it.
What is a Stagehand?
Stagehands, also known as Stage Technicians, are people who work behind the scenes of theaters, television, movies, commercials, and other performances.
They are responsible for setting up and taking down equipment, props, and other items used in the production.
Stagehands also help with lighting, sound, and general scenery.
They may also help performers and actors change outfits and costumes, adjust or move props, and resolve issues regarding setup.
The top Stagehand skills.
Five things separate a strong hire from a résumé that reads well. Use these as your scorecard criteria.
The job description, ready to post.
Copy it as written, or edit it until it sounds like your company. Both work.
We are hiring a Stagehand to join our production company. As a member of our team, you will be responsible for setting up and breaking down stages and sets, assembling and disassembling props and stage equipment, and installing and testing lighting, speakers, microphones, special effect devices, and other equipment. You will also be in charge of monitoring the stage during performances in case of emergencies and troubleshooting equipment issues.
Moreover, you will assist performers and actors with costume and outfit changes, prepare dressing and rehearsal rooms, and clean up stages between performances.
As a Stagehand, you will be required to collaborate with costume designers, stage managers, and other professionals to ensure everything runs smoothly. In the end, our ideal candidate for a Stagehand should have excellent communication, collaboration, organizational, and technical skills.
Duties and responsibilities
- Set up and break down stages, sets, and scenery
- Set up and test lighting, special effect devices, speakers, microphones, and other equipment
- Maintain the lights, sound, and video equipment
- Install, assemble, and disassemble props and stage equipment
- Prepare and maintain dressing and rehearsal rooms
- Assist performers and actors with costume and outfit changes
- Monitor the stage during performances in case of emergency
- Make prop adjustments on set if necessary
- Clean up the stage and set between performances and remove waste
- Ensure the equipment and props are stored safely and working properly
- Coordinate with the costume designer with setting props, details, and costume pieces on the stage
- Ensure the safety of performers and audience during performances.
Requirements
- High school diploma or a GED
- Previous working experience as a Stagehand or similar positions
- Completed apprenticeship or internship is advantageous
- Familiarity with stage equipment and audio systems
- The ability to work independently
- Strong technical skills
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills
- Great physical fitness and stamina
- Good organization and multitasking skills
Take the template with you
Copy it straight into your job board or ATS, or have it emailed to you with the interview questions for this role.
What education this role needs.
Stagehands usually need a high school diploma or a GED certificate.
Even though there are no formal education requirements, Stagehands still need specific knowledge and a set of skills for this position.
Candidates typically need a direct experience with equipment and tools used in production, which can be acquired through apprenticeship or internship programs.
On-the-job training provides Stagehands with knowledge of safety procedures, equipment maintenance, and other essential skills.
Sample interview questions for a Stagehand.
Once you have gathered the applications, work through these in order. Twelve questions across four areas, enough to tell your shortlist apart.
- How would your friends describe your personality?
- How often do you go to the theater or cinema?
- If there is something you would like to change about yourself, what would it be?
- What skills do you possess that would make you excel in this job?
- How strong are your collaboration skills?
- What stages and performances have you worked on in the past?
- Have you ever had a disagreement with a colleague and how did it end?
- How do you ensure safety during performances?
- Are you comfortable working long or odd hours?
- How often do you think is necessary to perform routine maintenance checks on stage equipment?
- Can you describe your experience operating light and sound equipment?
- There is a sudden power loss during the performance. What do you do?
How much to pay when hiring.
Annual pay by percentile. Where you land depends on the size of the cycle they will own, and the 25th percentile is usually where a first analyst hire sits.
Hourly equivalents run from $9 at the 10th percentile to $24 at the 90th.
Candidates may apply under a different name.
Post the title your industry uses and keep the rest of the description. These three roles overlap enough that the same posting usually reaches all of them.
Three titles, one description.
Search behavior varies by industry, so the same job is advertised under several names. If you are unsure which one your candidates search for, run two titles and see which fills.
Production Assistant
A Production Assistant, or a Production Crew Assistant, is a professional who assists directors and producers on the set.
$30,592 medianBackstage Crew Member
Television Production Assistant
Frequently asked questions.
What do Stagehands do?
Stagehands are people responsible for setting up and breaking down stages and sets for various performances and shootings.
They install, test, and operate lighting, video, and sound equipment, and assemble stage props.
Stagehands also assist performers and actors, prepare dressing and rehearsal rooms, and coordinate with other professionals to ensure safety and smooth organization.
Where do Stagehands work?
Stagehands can work in theaters, movie theaters, television and movie studios and productions, concerts, and other similar media environments.
What are the essential skills for Stagehands?
Stagehands must have exceptional communication, collaboration, organization, and technical skills, as well as good physical strength.
How much do Stagehands earn per year?
Stagehands earn between $17,500 and $50,000 annually.
Other job description templates.
Same format, same free, same median pay data. Browse the full library if the role you are hiring for is not here.
Production Assistant
A Production Assistant, or a Production Crew Assistant, is a professional who assists directors and producers on the set.
$30,592 median