Backstage Technician

Why choose the College of Lake County?

The College of Lake County (CLC) offers a competitive salary, excellent benefits that include 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 (e.g., health insurance).

About the role

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. This is a union position represented by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local #2.

Responsibilities

• 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.
• Set up, operate, and dismantle stage lighting and audio systems, including computerized and analog consoles, ensuring smooth technical execution of events.
• 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.
• Prepare stage elements such as risers, orchestra shells, music stands, chairs, and temporary dance flooring to meet performance specifications.
• Operate lighting consoles, audio consoles, fly system, and follow spotlights during live events; provide general stagehand support and perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• 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.
• 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).
• Competent 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 a live sound environment.
• Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines with attention to detail; proven effectiveness in working with diverse individuals and maintaining professional relationships.
• 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.

Benefits

• Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois health insurance
• 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
• Compressed work week in the summer (Closed Fridays!)
• Generous vacation, sick, and personal time off
• 14 paid holidays each year

Some benefits will not be available for Part-Time or Part-Time Staff Under 20 Hours (e.g., health insurance).

Pay

$26.71/hour

Schedule

Work schedules are determined based on production needs. Hours vary and may include evenings, weekends, and days exceeding 8 hours, depending on the event schedule. Daytime weekday availability is a plus.