DESCRIPTION

Job Title: Production Manager

Start Date: Immediate

Reports To: Artistic Director/Managing Director

FLSA Classification: Salaried, Exempt

Salary Range: $50,000 - $75,000

About TheaterWorks Hartford:

Since 1985, TheaterWorks Hartford has presented quality, live contemporary American Theater to audiences in the heart of Connecticut’s capital. Located in downtown Hartford, the theater presents 5-6 productions per year in its 188-seat venue along with its popular Living Room Concert Series in the expansive Hoffman Lobby, artistic talks, play readings, and special events throughout the season.

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Overview:

At TheaterWorks Hartford, we believe great theater happens when talented, passionate people come together to create something extraordinary. We're looking for a Production Manager to lead an exceptional team of skilled artisans and theater makers in bringing our bold artistic vision to life.

For more than 40 years, TWH has built a reputation for intimate, contemporary theater that challenges, entertains, and connects our community. We're a small but ambitious organization that values creativity, collaboration, resourcefulness, and a little adventurous spirit.

We're looking for an inspiring leader who loves making theater, thrives on creative problem-solving, and understands that the best work happens when talented people feel supported, respected, and empowered.

Summary of Position:

The Production Manager is accountable for all facets of producing work created and presented by the theater. Duties include hiring and supervision of production staff; creating and overseeing production department budgets, creating and managing production calendars; ensuring the design and production processes for all shows and special events are executed timely and successfully; promotes a production staff culture that mimics the best of the rehearsal room--collaborative, positive, efficient, inclusive, listening and responding. Strong financial, strategic and leadership skills required.

Key Relationships:

Artistic Director

Managing Director

Production Department Heads

Designers

General Manager

Essential Functions of the Position:

● Supervise all Production Staff to ensure the artistic integrity of the organization and the artistic vision of the creative teams is achieved.

● Manage full-time production staff, seasonal overhires and interns.

● Aid in searches and hiring of all vacant production department positions.

● In collaboration with leadership, create seasonal Production Calendar, rehearsal and performance schedule.

● Establish budgets for all production-related elements and labor in collaboration with the Production Department, General Manager, Managing Director, and Artistic Director.

● Assist the Artistic Team with the selection of designers and visiting artists.

● Collaborate on contract negotiations.

● Shepard the production process, by precisely communicating with members of the creative team, making sure that there is a clear understanding of budget, deadlines, resources and space specifications.

● Act as Liaison between Directors, Designers, Stage Managers, TWH Production, Artistic and Administrative Staff.

○ Included but not limited to: Coordinate and conduct all design and production meetings. Attend first read through, designer run, technical rehearsals and previews as necessary. Maintain department contact information and show rosters. Serve as liaison to labor unions for actors, stage managers and designers. Ensure company compliance with all union rules.

● Oversee the progress of the production process from start to finish to ensure the work is completed on time and on budget.

● Oversee hiring of production interns and apprentices. Work with the Director of Development to identify and apply for internship grants, identify internal needs for intern/apprentice support and experiences.

● Oversee and coordinate Production Internships and Apprenticeships. May include contracting and collaborating with Master Teaching Artist(s), assistant(s), and additional work spaces, schedules, and opportunities for apprentices.

● As necessary, support productions with hands-on projects including (but not limited to) fabrication/sourcing of all production supplies, elements, purchases in all production departments: scenery, props, costumes, lighting or sound/AV as needed.

● Track and monitor production budgets, and maintain an efficient system of reconciliation.

● Support a production department culture that centers workplace safety, conforming to current health and safety regulations and best theater practice.

● Meet with Direct reports at least bi-monthly to set priorities, administer production information, and ensure any necessary training and/or support is provided to successfully perform their duties as assigned.

● Collaborate with Artistic Director, Managing Director, and Facilities Manager on capital improvements.

● Assign production staff to roles and schedules for special events and projects.

● Cultivate relationships with other professional theatre companies, vendors, universities on shared resources, personnel, and new opportunities.

● Conduct responsibilities with TheaterWorks Hartford’s Mission, Vision and Values in mind, in support of our commitment to inclusivity and anti-racism.

● Other duties may be assigned upon review with the employee and their supervisor in response to unforeseen or unknown developments.

Direct Reports:

1) Technical Director

2) Assistant Technical Director

3) Lead Carpenter

4) Scenic Charge & Props Manager

5) Costume Supervisor

6) House Electrician

7) House Audio-Visual Engineer

Required Education and Experience:

1) Minimum 5 years experience in a production department at the professional level.

2) Minimum 3 years experience as Production Manager, or other technical department head at the professional level.

3) Deep understanding of non-profit financial models, including production and operating budgets.

4) Knowledge of industry safety standards and protocols.

5) Confident knowledge of theatrical production and processes, including new trends and innovation.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

1) Deep understanding of creative, rehearsal, build, load-in and tech processes,

2) Ability to read and interpret design drawings, ground plans, models, renderings and sketches.

3) Deep understanding of technical skills required in technical production: scenery fabrication, scenic art, lighting, sound, projections, costumes, props, stage management, and company management.

4) Must have excellent oral and written communication skills, excellent time management and people skills, creative approaches to problem-solving and be committed to the art of collaboration.

5) Must have proven track record in budget management, including spending reports and financial strategy.

6) Must have strong skills in scheduling and deadline management.

7) Strong computer skills, including Word, Excel, Google Suite, and Google Drive. Understanding of AutoCad and Photoshop a plus.

8) Working knowledge of theatrical unions is preferred by not required.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:

1) Primary working area is office; secondary is shop and theater.

2) Ability to lift 30-50 pounds

3) Sitting for extended periods of time

4) Standing for extended periods of time

5) Use of power tools and work in scene shop as needed. Ability to climb ladders, work overhead and in cramped spaces sometimes required.

To Apply:

Please send resume, cover letter and references by November 30 to [email protected] and type Production Manager Search in the subject line. No phone calls please. TheaterWorks Hartford is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

DURATION

Dec 1, 2026 -

SALARY

$50,000.00 – $75,000.00 per year