Sierra Madre Playhouse Production Manager Sierra Madre, CA · Full time Company website

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Job Summary:

The Production Manager is the lead producer of events and responsible for overseeing all technical and administrative aspects of performances. Events include plays with multiple week runs, dance, music, films, and stand-up comedy. This includes ensuring the efficient operation of stage, lighting, sound, and rigging systems. This full-time role involves hands-on oversight of stage crew and technical staff, coordinating production requirements with artistic teams, and maintaining safety and operational standards for all equipment. The position requires proficiency in collaborative software to manage schedules, budgets, and event logistics effectively. The Production Manager will also participate in event and production meetings, providing critical support in both planning and execution. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in technical theater, exceptional organizational skills, and the ability to lead teams while balancing administrative and technical responsibilities in a dynamic environment. Flexibility is required to be present at all performances, with exceptions allowed with two weeks’ notice.

We recognize that it is highly unlikely that an applicant meets 100% of the qualifications for a given role. Therefore, if much of this job description describes you, then you are highly encouraged to apply for this role.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage the production schedule using software to oversee each event from start to finish.
• Oversee stage/technical crew members, interns, and other employees.
• Oversee stage, sound, and lighting equipment for events. 
• Facilitate crew staffing, scheduling, production payroll entry, and internal event communications.
• Operate or oversee the operation of stage machinery (lighting, audio, rigging) when specialized crew is not available.
• Participate in staff, event, and production meetings to collaborate with artistic staff, artists, and rental clients on production needs and budgets.
• Conceptualize, install, maintain, and operate theatrical and non-theatrical equipment systems. Ensure regular inspection and maintenance of rigging and stage systems for safety.
• Manage theatrical systems, including venue and event paperwork using industry-standard applications.
• Produce event summary reports after each playhouse event for post-event review.
• Prepare and execute technical requirements for events, supervise crew, and manage production assistants.
• Review and approve department purchase orders, check requests, and accident/incident reports to address root causes and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards (ADA & OSHA).
• Assist Company Manager with clerical and fiscal tasks, as needed.
• Generate or delegate labor and equipment estimates for upcoming shows.
• Prepare annual operating budgets for the productions department and capital expenditure projects.
• Capable of operating stage machinery (lighting, audio, rigging) and handling general stage preparations and restorations post-event.
• Maintain knowledge of Employee Handbook, Evacuation Plans, and safety regulations.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Project management knowledge, including scheduling, multi-season calendar maintenance, and budgeting/resource management.
• Strong technical theater expertise, with at least intermediate experience in lighting/electrics, audio, rigging, and video with advanced knowledge in at least one of those areas.
• Experience with audio equipment (signal flow, patching, routing, troubleshooting).
• Proficiency with Q-Lab programming/operations, moving lights, LED, and conventional lighting.
• Basic understanding of projection and video equipment (HD, SDI, DVI, HDCP).
• Experience with stage management across various performance types (drama, dance, opera, musicals).
• Proficient in theatrical paperwork, notation, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to lead, coordinate, and delegate responsibilities for performances and events, including managing stage activities, crew supervision, scheduling, payroll, and communications.
• Strong time management and organizational skills.

Physical Requirements:

• Motor coordination and the ability to lift 50 lbs or more.
• Ability to climb a ladder, operate aerial work platforms, and ability to work at varying heights.

Compensation:

Non-Exempt Full Time $52,000-58,000 ($25-27.88/hr). Paid 6 holidays, 5 sick days, and accrued vacation days. Additional benefits, including health coverage, are open for negotiation.