Stage foreman

What does a stage supervisor do? – tasks and work environment

A stage supervisor is responsible for the practical leadership on stage during theater performances, concerts, events, and other stage productions. The role involves planning and coordinating the technical work behind the scenes, directing teams of stage technicians, and ensuring that lighting, sound, decorations, and props are handled correctly and according to schedule. The work environment is often dynamic and can involve working both day and evening shifts, sometimes under time pressure and with demands for quick problem-solving. The work is often done in close cooperation with directors, producers, and other professionals in the performing arts.

Salary development over time

The salary development for stage supervisors has been clearly positive over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 35,100 SEK per month, which increased to 35 500 SEK in 2023 and further to 38 600 SEK in 2024. This increase corresponds to a total salary rise of approximately 10% during the period. The development can partly be explained by an increased focus on safety, technological advancements, and higher demands on leadership within stage productions. The demand for experienced stage supervisors has increased, especially in larger cities and major productions, leading to upward pressure on salaries. Additionally, the industry’s recovery after the pandemic has contributed to strengthening salary growth.

Stage supervisor salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 38 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 33,600 SEK/month (female), 36,100 SEK/month (male)
• Highest salary: 40,300 SEK/month (female), 43,700 SEK/month (male)
• Hourly wage: 232 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 96% of what men do (37 300 SEK vs 38 800 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on whether in a big city or smaller town, but detailed statistics are lacking

Education and qualifications

To work as a stage supervisor, a combination of technical education in lighting, sound, or stage technology and practical experience from stage productions is usually required. Many have post-secondary education, but it is also common to progress within the profession through internships and trainee positions. Leadership training and good organizational skills are important qualifications for success in the role.

• Post-secondary education: YH training in stage technology, 1–2 years
• Courses/certificates: Safety on stage, work environment, leadership
• Internship/trainee: Experience from theater, concert, or event production
• Prerequisites: Basic technical understanding and interest in performing arts
• Recruitment path: Internal career progression via technician roles is common

Common benefits and compensations

Stage supervisors are often offered benefits such as overtime pay for evening and weekend work, wellness allowances, and sometimes opportunities for skill development through internal or external courses. Additional compensations may include overtime pay, access to work clothing, and sometimes subsidized meals during longer productions.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a stage supervisor can be high, especially at larger theaters and event venues where many seek employment at reputable workplaces. The limited number of permanent positions means many work project-based or on fixed-term contracts. Challenges in the profession include irregular working hours, physically demanding tasks, and the need to handle stressful situations when technical issues arise or schedules slip. The industry is also dependent on economic conditions and funding, which affect the number of productions and thus job availability. Staying updated on new technology and safety regulations is also crucial to remain competitive.

Tips for aspiring stage supervisors

To succeed as a stage supervisor, it’s good to combine technical interest with strong organizational skills and good communication. Being meticulous and solution-oriented helps when unexpected problems occur on stage. Leadership is central, as the role often involves directing teams and assigning tasks under time pressure. Engagement and flexibility are important qualities since working hours and tasks can vary significantly between productions. Building networks and being open to new working methods increase chances of getting interesting assignments. Practical experience, such as through internships or volunteer work, provides valuable insights and strengthens your position during recruitment. Finally, continuous further education in new technology and work environment safety is an advantage to stay current in the industry.

Key facts about stage supervisors

• Average salary: 38 600 SEK/month
• Salary range: 33,600–43,700 SEK/month
• Education level: Post-secondary education in stage technology (1–2 years)
• Work environment: Theater, concert halls, event venues – often evening and weekend work
• Demand: 620 available jobs in the profession in spring 2024

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a stage supervisor, there are opportunities to advance to senior technical manager, production manager, or project leader within larger events and venues. Some choose to specialize further in areas like lighting design, sound engineering, or safety. Others move into educational roles or consultancy within stage production. The employment agency’s forecasts for the profession of lighting, sound, and stage technicians indicate that there is not enough data for an exact assessment of future prospects, but the digital development and increasing number of live events suggest continued demand for competent stage supervisors. The number of available jobs in the profession was 620 in spring 2024, indicating a relatively healthy job market for those with the right qualifications.

Frequently asked questions about stage supervisors

• What does a stage supervisor earn?
  - A stage supervisor has an average salary of 38 600 SEK per month. The salary range varies between 33,600 SEK and 43,700 SEK depending on experience, workplace, and education.
• How do you become a stage supervisor?
  - The usual pathway is post-secondary education in stage technology (1–2 years) along with practical experience from theater, concerts, or event production.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 37 300 SEK while men earn 38 800 SEK, which means women earn approximately 96% of men's salaries.
• Which workplaces hire stage supervisors?
  - Stage supervisors work at theaters, concert halls, event venues, and during tours or festivals.
• What are the future prospects for stage supervisors?
  - There is no exact forecast, but with 620 available jobs in spring 2024, the job market appears relatively good.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Organizational skills, leadership, flexibility, and technical interest are key to success in the role.