If you want to work as a stage technician, you must have a high school diploma or a GED. Applicants for these positions are usually not required to have a college diploma. The majority of these jobs will require you to have a clean criminal record and to pass a pre-employment drug test and physical examination.
Candidates should expect to be familiar with stage rigging practices, particularly safety procedures, if they want to work as a stage technician. You should also be familiar with the different systems used on stages, such as lighting and sound. If you also have a basic understanding of electricity and staging, you’ll be well on your way to finding work in this field.
Anyone who wants to work as a stage technician should have some prior experience in the theater. Applicants for many jobs must have at least two years of prior work experience. In some cases, you may be able to replace traditional employment with unpaid internships or volunteer work. The number of years of experience you’ll need will most likely differ depending on the employer.
Many companies will require you to have basic computer skills in order to work as a stage technician. It may be necessary for you to send and receive email, as well as look up information that will assist you in completing a task. You’ll almost certainly need to know how to use a variety of tools. Furthermore, you may be required to climb to certain heights while installing or repairing stage components, so having an adventurous spirit is advantageous.
Some stage technician jobs will require candidates to have a thorough understanding of state or federal workplace safety regulations. This is especially true in management and supervisory positions. Even if you don’t have the official title of supervisor or manager, some stage technician jobs require you to supervise the work of others. You may also be asked to assist in the design or construction of stage sets, so if you have an educational or professional background in architecture or engineering, you will have a distinct advantage.
You should be aware that you may be responsible for handling props and completing assignments that are actually the responsibility of someone else. Stage technicians are frequently called upon to fill in for other members of the theatrical team. You should be able to be adaptable and deal with change quickly, as this will benefit you throughout your career.