Backstage Technician

College of Lake County; Grayslake (IL); On-site; USD 30,000 - 43,000; Part time

Job summary

College of Lake County is seeking a part-time Backstage Technician for the James Lumber Center for the Performing Arts (JLC) in Grayslake. You will support load-in/load-out, operate lighting and audio systems, and assist with stage setup and execution during performances.

Qualifications include a high school diploma or equivalent and 2+ years backstage experience; experience with Front of House and monitor mixing is preferred. Must be able to lift and work evenings/weekends.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum two years of backstage support experience.
• Strong hands-on Front of House and monitor mixing experience preferred.
• Competent with basic hand and power tools.

Responsibilities

• Assist with load-in/load-out and backstage operations; support events; occasional heavy lifting and standing.
• Set up, operate, and dismantle lighting and audio systems.
• Perform basic rigging and fly rail tasks at heights per safety protocols.
• Prepare stage elements such as risers, shells, music stands, chairs and dance flooring.
• Operate lighting and audio consoles; provide general stagehand support and other duties.

Skills

Backstage experience

Front of House

Monitor mixing

Hand tools

Power tools

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Hand tools

Power tools

Job description

Why choose the College of Lake County for your next opportunity? The College of Lake County (CLC) offers a competitive salary, excellent benefits that includes Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois health, Delta Dental and Superior Vision insurance plans, tuition support for employees and qualified family members, three retirement plans, disability, group and supplemental life insurance, health and dependent care flexible spending account plans, a compressed work week in the summer (Closed Fridays!), generous vacation, sick and personal time off and 14 paid holidays each year. Some benefits will not be available for Part-Time or Part Time Staff Under 20 Hours (ex: health insurance).

Position Title

Backstage Technician

Job Summary

The College of Lake County is looking for a part time, Backstage Technician to join the James Lumber Center for the Performing Arts (JLC). The JLC Backstage Technician is primarily responsible for performing designated tasks assigned by the JLC Production Manager or assigned crew lead when preparing for, working during and/or striking after a performance in the JLC.

Job Responsibilities

• Event Support & Logistics Assist with load-in/load-out and backstage operations for college performances, touring productions, business events, and community rentals; includes occasional heavy lifting and standing for extended periods.
• Technical Equipment Handling Set up, operate, and dismantle stage lighting and audio systems, including computerized and analog consoles, ensuring smooth technical execution of events.
• Rigging & Safety Operations Perform basic theatrical rigging and fly rail tasks; work safely at heights (e.g., catwalks, loading bridges, lifts/ladders) in accordance with college safety protocols.
• Stage Setup & Maintenance Prepare stage elements such as risers, orchestra shells, music stands, chairs, and temporary dance flooring to meet performance specifications.
• Performance Execution Operate lighting consoles, audio consoles, fly system and follow spotlights during live events; provide general stagehand support and perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Requirements

Education & Experience High school diploma or equivalent required; minimum two years of backstage support experience in professional performance environments preferred. Strong hands-on experience in both Front of House and monitor mixing preferred.

Physical & Technical Skills

Ability to occasionally lift heavy objects., squat, and bend frequently; proficient in using basic hand and power tools (e.g., c-wrenches, socket wrenches, drills).

Technology & Communication

Competent in operating computers and software relevant to technical production; proficient written and verbal communication skills.

Expertise

Engineering front of house and monitor operations in live sound environment

Work Ethic & Collaboration

Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines with attention to detail; proven effectiveness in working with diverse individuals and maintaining professional relationships.

Availability & Reliability

Actual hours vary based on show schedule and need. May work over 8 hours a day, plus evenings and weekends, depending on the needs of the college/event schedule. Daytime weekday availability is a plus. Adherence to college attendance and punctuality standards is expected.

Work Schedule

Work schedules are determined based on production needs.

Pay

$26.71/hour

Employment Details

• Full-Time/Part-Time: Part time
• Total Hours Per Week: 0
• Position Type: Staff
• Job Family: Classified
• Posting Date: 08/24/2026
• Expected Start Date: 09/28/2026
• Compensation Grade: Backstage Technician
• Location: Grayslake Campus
• Department: JM - Production - Backstage Technician

EEO Statement

College of Lake County is an Equal Opportunity Employer with a policy of non-discrimination. Qualified applicants are considered without regard to race, color, age, sex, national origin, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, military or veteran status, genetic information, ancestry, citizenship, parental status, pregnancy or any other status protected by law.

College of Lake County (CLC) is a comprehensive community college located in northeastern Illinois committed to being an innovative educational institution providing life-changing paths for our students by offering exceptional learning experiences. CLC aspires to be a place where every student succeeds, every employee thrives, so that every business achieves and every community grows. Our mission is to be innovative and value-driven in supporting student success through developing and encouraging employees of all backgrounds on their journey toward achieving personal and professional growth. CLC achieved a milestone in 2025 with its designation as a Leader College of Distinction. CLC is part of the Achieving the Dream (ATD) Network, made up of 300+ colleges committed to supporting student success at their institutions and promoting economic vitality throughout their communities. CLC has been a member of the ATD Network since 2019 and has held Leader College status since 2023.