Assistant Production Manager/Stage Manager

Assistant Production Manager/Stage Manager

Position Number: FA458

FLSA Classification: Exempt

Appointment Type: Full Time

Campus Security Authority: Yes

Campus Security Authority Statement
This position is designated as a Campus Security Authority. A Campus Security Authority (or CSA) is defined as an “official of the institution with significant responsibility for student and campus activities”. A CSA is required to immediately report any crime that is reported to them to the University Police who will then review, evaluate, and investigate the reported crime. Annual training is required by the Department of Education for all personnel who have been designated as a Campus Security Authority.

Position Summary
Assists in providing administrative planning, budgeting and supervisory direction for all production activities in the Ferguson Center for the Arts to ensure maximum use of facility and safety of all involved. Will be called on to supervise and assist in other allied activities connected with the operation of other facilities and events scheduled at the University as determined by administration.

Responsibilities

At the direction of the Production Manager, schedule work calls, prepare estimates, procure equipment, schedule, execute and fulfill production advance calls, manage and lead technical crews.

Function as a crew member, serve as a stage manager calling shows, managing casts—sometimes fulfilling the responsibilities of both company manager and stage manager.

Train new crew members and students.

Develop and maintain very positive and professional customer service and relations within the office/department and with all constituencies to include students, faculty, staff, guests, and employees.

Demonstrate a positive and professional attitude and treat everyone with dignity and respect. Fully support the “Student’s First” value.

Follow workplace safety regulations and adhere to applicable standards, processes, and programs established.

Promote a safe and healthy work environment by ensuring the implementation of safety regulations and applicable standards for employees under supervision.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA’s)

Knowledge of standard theatrical tools, systems, and equipment including lighting, sound, rigging, staging, and backstage operations.

Knowledge of occupational hazards and accepted safety practices in a performing arts environment.

Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Strong interpersonal skills, results‑focused, and strong organizational skills.

Ability to assist in the coordination and execution of all production elements for major professional touring attractions.

Ability to support and assist the Production Manager in a high‑volume, multi‑event venue.

Ability to function as a Stage Manager, working with cast, crew, designers, and visiting artists.

Ability to schedule and run rehearsals as assigned.

Ability to call cues and manage live performances.

Ability to maintain backstage order and enforce performance protocols.

Ability to substitute into various positions on a traditional technical crew.

Ability to function as both a crew leader and a crew member depending on production needs.

Ability to supervise, mentor, or coordinate student workers, interns, and over‑hire crew.

Ability to assist with production scheduling, space management, and coordination of multiple events.

Ability to assist with production timelines, load‑ins, load‑outs, and strike operations.

Ability to work effectively with a wide range of individuals.

Ability to establish priorities and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

Ability to work productively as part of a team and independently with minimal supervision.

Ability to learn and use production‑related software applications as needed.

Physical ability to work long hours as required.

Physical ability to lift, stand, climb, and work in confined or elevated spaces.

Ability to work highly irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, based on event schedules.

Commitment to a collaborative, service‑oriented production environment.

Education Requirements

Master’s Degree or Bachelor’s degree with work experience that equates to an advanced degree.

Master’s degree in Theatre or related field with an emphasis in technical theatre and/or stage management, or a Bachelor’s degree with significant work experience that equates to a Master’s degree is required.

Experience Requirements

Technical theatre or production experience in a multi‑use performing arts facility.

Experience in stage management for live performance, including rehearsals, technical rehearsals, and performances.

Experience collaborating with artists, designers, production staff, and visiting technical personnel.

Experience using personal computers, including word processing, spreadsheet, database, and production‑related software applications.

Experience in theatre operations, technical production, facility operations, and maintenance.

Additional Consideration – Experience
Management experience coordinating and supporting all technical aspects of productions in a complex, multiple‑use environment. Experience making critical operational decisions and solving problems in real time. Demonstrated experience working with professional touring productions and presenting organizations. Experience advancing productions and working from technical riders, schedules, and production documentation. Experience supervising or coordinating technical staff, student workers, and/or over‑hire crew. Experience collaborating with artists, designers, production staff, and visiting technical personnel. Theatre experience in a college/university setting.

Compensation
Starting at $50,887, commensurate with education and experience.

Telework Eligibility
No

EEO/Diversity Statement
Christopher Newport University, an EO Employer, is fully committed to access and opportunity.

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