Most commonly reported Work Activities

•   Interacting With Computers Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
•   Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
•   Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Identifying information by categorising, estimating, recognising differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
•   Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
•   Thinking Creatively Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
•   Making Decisions and Solving Problems Analysing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
•   Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
•   Organising, Planning, and Prioritising Work Developing specific goals and plans to prioritise, organise, and accomplish your work.
•   Scheduling Work and Activities Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
•   Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.

Working Life

Stagehands support other team members, such as carpenters and painters, in a wide variety of tasks.

Role and Responsibilities 

• Responsible for good housekeeping on the building stages of sets and locations, ensuring safe working environments and keeping sets clear of debris or litter.
• Move equipment and operate lifting equipment as necessary.
• Work as part of a large team and take instruction from master crafts on what tasks are required on a given day. 
• Work to tight deadlines and the demands of a busy production.
• Work to maintain health and safety standards. 

Works with

• Construction Coordinator
• Master Crafts
• All of the Construction Department

Most commonly reported Work Tasks

• Notify supervisors when major equipment repairs are needed.
• Diagnose and resolve media system problems.
• Direct and coordinate activities of assistants and other personnel during production.
• Compress, digitise, duplicate, and store audio and video data.
• Install, adjust, and operate electronic equipment to record, edit, and transmit radio and television programmes, motion pictures, video conferencing, or multimedia presentations.
• Control the lights and sound of events, such as live concerts, before and after performances, and during intermissions.
• Switch sources of video input from one camera or studio to another, from film to live programming, or from network to local programming.
• Record and edit audio material, such as movie soundtracks, using audio recording and editing equipment.
• Perform minor repairs and routine cleaning of audio and video equipment.
• Design layouts of audio and video equipment and perform upgrades and maintenance.

This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:

 Realist

Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.

Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.

Education Route:  Entry level role. Qualifications in relevant craft and Health & Safety certification can be useful.

Career Path to Stagehand - Film & TV: May be helpful to have technical experience in carpentry, electrics, rigging. 

Career Path from Stagehand - Film & TV: Lead Stagehand, Set Dresser, Props Assistant, Construction Coordinator.