Theatrical Systems Rigger

Fantaseeintegration; Detroit (MI); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Fantasee Integration in Detroit, MI seeks an experienced Theatrical Systems Rigger to lead rigging design and field installations across venues. You will survey sites, design complete rigging systems, produce install-ready packages, and supervise crews or perform installations as needed.

The role requires deep knowledge of counterweight and motorized rigging, plus the ability to read drawings and coordinate with engineers and contractors. ETCP certification is preferred and travel is required.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in theatrical rigging system design or related field.
• Proficiency with counterweight and motorized hoisting systems.
• Experience supervising installation crews, including union labor.
• Familiarity with rigging inspection practices and safety standards.
• Proficiency reading structural/architectural drawings.

Responsibilities

• Conduct site surveys and document conditions for rigging projects.
• Design complete rigging systems, layouts, BOMs, and electrical needs.
• Create install-ready design packages with clear notes.
• Lead field installations or supervise subcontracted crews.
• Coordinate with engineers, electricians, and general contractors.
• Perform annual rigging inspections and write reports.
• Ensure designs meet ANSI and local codes.
• Travel regionally for surveys, installations, and inspections.

Skills

Theatrical rigging design

Counterweight systems

Motorized/automated hoists

IATSE supervision

CAD software

Tools

AutoCAD

Vectorworks

Job description

Fantasee Integration is seeking an experienced Theatrical Systems Rigger to join our growing rigging team for permanent installation projects. This hands-on role combines some system design with field installation and inspection, working across K-12 schools, universities, community theaters, and event venues throughout the region. You will work in conjunction with our ETCP certified rigger for larger systems design projects as needed.
The ideal candidate brings deep knowledge of theatrical rigging systems, both counterweight and motorized/automated, and can take a project from initial site survey through design, installation, and final commissioning. As a lead rigger onsite, you will supervise subcontracted labor crews, including IATSE union crews, or perform installation work independently. You will also conduct annual rigging inspections with written reports for our clients. This is a high-impact position on a small, collaborative team where your expertise directly shapes the quality of every project we deliver.

Requirements

Role & Responsibilities:

Conduct site surveys and document existing conditions, structural members, electrical infrastructure, and access limitations for rigging projects.

Assist in designing complete rigging systems including equipment layouts, rigging plans, equipment schedules, bills of materials, electrical requirements, control system architecture, and structural load summaries.

Assist in producing clear, accurate, and install-ready design packages: including dimensioned drawings, itemized BOMs with part numbers and quantities, and written installation notes-so that installation crews can execute the work without ambiguity.

Lead field installations of counterweight, motorized, and automated rigging systems, either supervising subcontracted IATSE union labor crews or performing the work independently as project scope requires.

Coordinate with engineers, electrical contractors, and general contractors as needed during design and installation.

Conduct annual rigging inspections of theatrical rigging systems in client venues, evaluating equipment condition, safety compliance, and operational readiness.

Produce detailed written rigging inspection reports documenting findings, deficiencies, and recommended corrective actions for each inspected venue.

Ensure all designs and installations comply with applicable standards including ANSI E1.4, ANSI E1.6-1, NFPA 70, and local building codes.

Participate in project hand-off meetings and communicate site conditions, known challenges, and critical details to the broader team before and during installations.

Respond to field questions and resolve technical issues promptly during active projects.

Preferred Experience:

5+ years of experience in theatrical rigging system design, installation, or a closely related discipline

Demonstrated proficiency with counterweight rigging systems and motorized/automated hoist systems (e.g., ETC Prodigy, JR Clancy PowerLift, or similar)

Experience supervising installation crews, particularly IATSE union labor, on job sites

Familiarity with rigging inspection practices and the ability to assess equipment condition, wire rope wear, brake function, and structural connections

Working knowledge of ANSI E1.4, ANSI E1.6-1, ANSI E1.22, and related entertainment technology standards

ETCP Certification in Theatre Rigging (or ability and willingness to obtain within 12 months of hire)

Proficiency with CAD software (AutoCAD, Vectorworks, or equivalent) for producing rigging layouts and drawings

Ability to read and interpret structural and architectural drawings

Comfortable working at height, on ladders, scaffolding, catwalks, and gridirons

Strong written communication skills-this role requires producing inspection reports and design documentation that others rely on

Willingness to travel regionally for site surveys, installations, and inspections

A "roll up your sleeves" attitude

Expected Salary Range: $75,000 - $95,000 (negotiable based on experience)

About the Company

Fantasee Integration is a leading provider of lighting, A/V, and rigging systems, with a focus on system design, system integration, installation, and service & repair for permanent installations in the Architainment and theater industries. Based in Detroit, MI we pride ourselves on our innovative and customer-centric approach delivering exceptional customer service while creating unforgettable experiences and providing comprehensive solutions to meet our clients’ diverse needs.