Production Manager
The Production Manager supervises the technical operations of Sangamon Auditorium and support spaces. This position is responsible for ensuring a safe backstage working environment at all times, is responsible for event administration from a technical production standpoint, is responsible for backstage/back-of-house management of the performance venue, is responsible for all administrative and financial aspects related to backstage/back-of-house operations.
Duties and responsibilities include serving as the unit's Chief Safety Officer for the Auditorium, promoting a culture of safety in all backstage operations as the top priority. Reviews technical riders and related materials for incoming events and artists and develops labor and equipment estimates as requested, identifying requirements that cannot be fulfilled or may generate additional costs. Ensures appropriate supervision of all personnel supporting Auditorium backstage operations, including full-time staff and extra-help stagehands. Prepares annual and event budget forecasts for Auditorium backstage operations. Ensures all personnel working backstage in the Auditorium are appropriately trained in the safe operation of equipment, the proper use of personal protective equipment, and compliance with departmental, University, OSHA, and industry safety standards. Ensures all stage equipment in the Auditorium is maintained and operated in accordance with manufacturer specifications, University and departmental policies, OSHA standards, and all applicable laws and regulations.
Minimum qualifications include a high school diploma or equivalent, any one or combination totaling eighteen months from the categories below: coursework in arts, theatre, theatre management, music business, or a closely related field, work experience in technical operations of event production, and one year of supervisory work experience in technical operations of event production. Specialty factors include demonstrated leadership ability in creating and maintaining a safe working environment, demonstrated ability to communicate orally and in writing at a professional level, demonstrated ability to perform mathematical calculations as they pertain to event cost estimating and billing, developing accurate payroll, developing and tracking budgets/expenditures, etc. Preferred qualifications include five or more years of professional experience in technical stage operations, including work as a stagehand, assistant production manager, assistant technical director, or similar role in a performing arts venue and/or on national touring productions.