🎬 What Is an Overhire List?
In the world of live entertainment — theater, concerts, TV shoots, and conventions — stagehand unions often maintain an “overhire list.” This list includes non-union or permit workers who are called in when extra crew is needed for short-term gigs like load-ins, load-outs, rehearsals, or one-night shows.
These lists are a popular entry point for people looking to break into behind-the-scenes work in stagecraft, lighting, rigging, carpentry, wardrobe, and audio-visual support.
Please note that you’ll most often find this sort of work near big or mid-sized cities.
⚙️ How It Works
- Local unions (usually IATSE locals) keep a list of pre-approved workers who can be called when they don’t have enough union labor for a particular event.
- Calls go out for short-term jobs — sometimes with a few days’ notice, sometimes same-day.
- If you’re on the list and available, you show up, work the gig, and get paid union rates.
Overhire work is common in big event venues, theaters, convention centers, and touring shows.
🏗️ Common Gigs You’ll Get
- Load-in/load-out for concerts or theater productions
- Setting up lighting, sound, or rigging equipment
- Building or painting scenery
- Operating spotlight or followspots during shows
- Running backstage as deck crew
- Working camera or audio for live broadcasts
✅ Pros of Overhire Work
- High hourly pay: Usually paid at union scale — $20–$50/hour depending on the local and the job.
- Flexible schedule: Great for freelancers, artists, or part-timers.
- Break into the industry: A stepping stone to union membership and full-time gigs.
- Exciting environments: Work on Broadway tours, arena concerts, conventions, and more.
- Skill development: Learn from experienced union pros while on the job.
❌ Cons of Overhire Work
- Unpredictable hours: Some weeks you’ll be slammed; others may be quiet.
- Physically demanding: Long shifts, heavy lifting, and late nights are the norm.
- No benefits: Until you join the union, you’re freelance with no health or pension.
- Hard to get on the list: Some unions require references, safety certifications, or prior experience.
- Seniority matters: Union members get first dibs on jobs. Overhires are second in line.
🧠 FAQs About Stagehand Overhire Lists
Q: How do I get on an overhire list?
A: Contact your local IATSE union (you can search by zip code on IATSE.net). Ask how to be added to their overhire or permit list. Some locals post applications online; others require in-person meetings.
Q: Do I need experience?
A: Yes and no. Some unions require prior backstage or technical experience, but others will train you if you’re reliable, punctual, and eager to learn.
Q: Will I need certifications?
A: Possibly. Some jobs require OSHA 10, fall protection, or forklift training — especially for rigging or high work.
Q: Can overhire work lead to full-time union membership?
A: Absolutely. If you show up consistently and do quality work, many locals offer paths to union cards through overhire roles.
Q: What should I wear to a call?
A: Always wear black or dark clothes, steel-toe boots (or hard-toe), and bring gloves. Every local may have its own expectations, but safety and neutrality are key.
🎭 Stagehand Overhire Side Hustle Scorecard
| Category | Rating (1–5) |
|---|---|
| Earning Potential | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Flexibility | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of Entry | ⭐⭐ |
| Fun Factor | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Job Consistency | ⭐⭐ |
🎤 Final Thoughts
Overhire lists are one of the best-kept secrets in live entertainment side hustles. Whether you’re interested in working a Metallica load-in, a Broadway tour stop, or just want to dip your toe into technical theater, getting on an overhire list opens doors.
It’s not always glamorous — it’s physical, chaotic, and sometimes thankless. But if you stick with it, you could find yourself backstage at some of the biggest events in town… getting paid to be part of the magic.
Looking for additional ideas? Check out our main page at sidehustlewatch.com