Production Manager

Job Summary: 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: Serves as the unit’s Chief Safety Officer for the Auditorium, promoting a culture of safety in all backstage operations as the top priority. Maintains expertise in backstage safety and industry best practices and develops and implements written safety policies and procedures for the Auditorium backstage area. Collaborates with the Studio Theatre counterpart to maintain consistent safety standards across venues where appropriate. Advises the Director on significant safety issues requiring additional resources. Maintains a positive working relationship with the University’s designated safety officer, welcomes surprise safety inspections, and promptly corrects any identified safety concerns. 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. Leads the advancement process for events, planning the effective and cost-conscious fulfillment of contractual technical, backstage, hospitality, and artist needs. Ensures productions meet venue standards while remaining within or below projected budgets. Works directly with artist personnel to resolve technical issues and proactively supports enhancements to production quality when appropriate. Oversees restoration of stage and backstage areas following events and leads post-show reviews with staff to assess outcomes, refine operational procedures, and recommend repairs or equipment needs. Ensures appropriate supervision of all personnel supporting Auditorium backstage operations, including full-time staff and extra-help stagehands. Recruits, hires, trains, and evaluates backstage staff. Oversees the maintenance and readiness of stage equipment, supplies, and technical systems. Identifies and implements operational improvements to increase efficiency, capability, and safety. Recommends facility upgrades and equipment replacement to maintain the UIS Performing Arts Center as a desirable performance venue supporting modern technical standards. Prepares annual and event budget forecasts for Auditorium backstage operations. Researches and develops short- and long-term maintenance and repair plans, including labor, equipment, and contractor recommendations as appropriate. Oversees the hiring, training, scheduling, discipline, and termination of backstage operations personnel in accordance with departmental and University procedures. Prepares and submits accurate payroll and event cost data in a timely manner that is clear and auditable. Ensures and documents that 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. Conducts regular walkthroughs of backstage areas to monitor safety conditions and address identified issues. Leads and coordinates comprehensive safety inspections of Auditorium backstage spaces with the Director and appropriate staff, including scheduling third-party inspections of stage equipment such as rigging systems. Maintains a positive working relationship with the University’s designated safety officer and promptly addresses any reported safety concerns. 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. Works in conjunction with the House Manager and Director to develop comprehensive written emergency plans, including contingencies for show interruption or cancellation, emergency evacuation, severe weather, medical emergencies, worker or artist accidents, audience intrusion on stage, and security breaches. Responsible for ensuring all staff working under the Production Manager are trained on and capable of executing emergency procedures as required. Special Projects and Other Duties as assigned.