ESCO 7215.1.1ISCO-08 7215
Stagehand
Also known as: theatre assistant, stagehand & loader, stage hand and loader, stage-hand, theater assistant, loader & stagehand
About this occupation
Stagehands assist stage technicians setting up and preparing equipment for live performance. Their work includes setting up the scenery, lights, sound, props, rigging, and special effects for a production.
A specialisation of event scaffolder.
Essential skills and knowledge
- handle scenic elements during rehearsal
- prevent fire in a performance environment
- assemble truss constructions
- follow safety procedures when working at heights
- work with respect for own safety
- assemble the rehearsal set
- work ergonomically
- work safely with mobile electrical systems under supervision
- work safely with machines
- assemble scenic elements on stage
- dismantle the rehearsal set
- use personal protection equipment
Typical tasks and preparation
From the related US occupation profile Media and Communication Equipment Workers, All Other (O*NET 27-4099.00). Linked by an official crosswalk: related, not identical; details vary by country.
US median pay: US$70,720 a year (2025), 12,450 employed. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.