Backstage Technician

College-of-Lake-Count; Illinois; On-site; USD 30,000 - 43,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Tuition support

Retirement plans

Paid holidays

Paid time off

Summer Fridays

Job summary

The College of Lake County is seeking a part-time Backstage Technician for the James Lumber Center for the Performing Arts. This role focuses on supporting load-in/load-out, operating stage lighting and audio systems, and performing rigging and safety tasks during performances.

Strong hands-on skills, familiarity with front of house and monitor operations, and the ability to lift heavy objects are important. Evening/weekend availability may be required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum two years backstage experience preferred.
• Front of house and monitor operations experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist load-in/load-out and backstage operations.
• Set up, operate, and dismantle lighting and audio systems.
• Perform basic rigging and fly rail tasks; work safely at heights.
• Prepare stage elements and ensure proper stage setup.
• Operate control consoles during performances and provide crew support.

Skills

Stage lighting

Audio systems

Rigging

Safety procedures

Heavy lifting

Computer literacy

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Lighting consoles

Audio consoles

Rigging gear

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 TechnicianJob 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. The Backstage Technician is a union position and is represented by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local #2Job Description:Job ResponsibilitiesEvent Support & LogisticsAssist 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 HandlingSet up, operate, and dismantle stage lighting and audio systems, including computerized and analog consoles, ensuring smooth technical execution of events.Rigging & Safety OperationsPerform 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 & MaintenancePrepare stage elements such as risers, orchestra shells, music stands, chairs, and temporary dance flooring to meet performance specifications.Performance ExecutionOperate lighting consoles, audio consoles, fly system and follow spotlights during live events; provide general stagehand support and perform other duties as assigned.Qualifications & RequirementsEducation & ExperienceHigh 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 SkillsAbility 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 & CommunicationCompetent in operating computers and software relevant to technical production; proficient written and verbal communication skills. Expertise in engineering front of house and monitor operations in live sound environmentWork Ethic & CollaborationDemonstrated ability to meet deadlines with attention to detail; proven effectiveness in working with diverse individuals and maintaining professional relationships.Availability & ReliabilityA ctual 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. D aytime 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/hourFull-Time/Part-Time:Part timeTotal Hours Per Week:0Position Type:StaffJob Family:ClassifiedPosting Date:08/24/2026Expected Start Date:09/28/2026Compensation Grade:Backstage TechnicianLocation:Grayslake CampusDepartment:JM - Production - Backstage Technician DepartmentEEO 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.