Production Stage Manager

The Production Stage Manager is an essential member of the Department of Theatre Arts & Dance and the production team with supervisory responsibility for the stage management teams and run crews. This position collaborates closely with colleagues, designers, production team members, and students to ensure that all projects produced at UMTAD are artistically executed to the highest possible standard. This position ensures that the stage management requirements for all UMTAD productions are met and mentors the student stage managers. The Production Stage Manager will manage issues with discretion and create a comfortable work environment.
65% – Production Stage Manager

• Provide PSM duties and act as stage manager for TAD productions and events as necessary and required
• Lead and participate in the development of student and early career stage managers assigned to UMTAD productions to ensure that they fully contribute to the process, develop skills, and advance their knowledge
• Coordinate, supervise, and mentor stage managers and assistant stage managers for all UMTAD Productions
• Supervise, and mentor stage managers of BA Studio Productions
• Supervise and mentor stage managers of BFA Studio Productions in conjunction with the BFA Program Administrator.
• Assist stage managers in the creation of prompt book(s) and all related production paperwork
• Coordinate and disseminate schedules and other show-specific information to the acting company, creative team, and related staff in consultation and collaboration with the Production Manager
• Communicate safety and emergency procedures to actors and crew; maintain safe practices during performance and rehearsals
• Maintain a consistent and sensitive relationship with colleagues and model supportive morale for the cast and crew
• Facilitate conflict resolution amongst actors/stage management/creative team, ensuring adherence to legal, department, and university policies and procedures
• Ensure all pertinent information relating to areas of responsibility to stage management staff is clearly communicated
• Consult with the production department, directing team, and/or department leadership on any issues that may arise during the rehearsal and production process
• Ensure all SM materials are sourced and replenished within budgetary allowance.
• Attend production meetings, design meetings, and other show-related meetings as required
• Other duties as assigned

25% – Auditions, Rehearsals, Run Crew, student Stage Managers

• Run auditions for all UMTAD Mainstage productions; BA and BFA Studios as needed in consultation with Program Heads and Directors
• Directly observe rehearsals as needed, attend designer runs, and all tech and dress rehearsals.
• Scheduling/supervision of mainstage understudy rehearsals
• Recruitment and oversight of student stage managers and run crews, providing timely feedback to ensure a great backstage team
• Schedule and lead onboarding meetings with cast, crew, and designers of productions including first rehearsal, tech preparation, crew watch, paper tech, hair and makeup tutorial/dry tech and all tech rehearsals.
• Instructor of record for production/practicum courses, such as (but not limited to) TH 3300, TH 3500, TH 3700, TH 3900, TH 3760, TH 5760.
• May be required to provide instruction as primary instructor, guest instructor, or substitute in stage management or other Design/Tech courses, such as (but not limited to) TH 3716/TH 5716, TH 1501, or TH 3571
• May be required to serve as Staff Advisor to departmentally supported student productions and other student organizations
• Other duties as assigned

10% – Administration/Facilities

• Provide coverage for Production Manager and/or Technical Director on an as-needed basis throughout the production season, may include and is not limited to leading meetings and department facility representation
• In collaboration with Director of Marketing & Communications, schedule photo and marketing sessions
• Actively participate in student recruitment efforts which may include travel
• Other duties as assigned

Please note, this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.

Job begins on Aug 31, 2026

Required:

• BA/BS plus at least 5 years related experience; or Master’s degree plus at least 3 years related experience.
• 2+ years of recent experience as a Stage Manager in professional theater and dance venues including practice and understanding of current stage management practices
• Broad understanding of other related theatrical production fields
• Advanced computer skills including MS Office, Google Platforms, and Zoom.
• Must be able to work flexible hours/days, including evenings and weekends, reflective of the dynamic schedule of UMTAD.
• Must be able to stand for extended periods; lift up to 30 lbs and be able to kneel and/or stoop for short periods, engage in repetitive motions.

Preferred:

• Experience teaching or working in the context of theatre education.
• Knowledge of AEA contracts and IATSE Local 13 rules and agreements as well as SDC and USA.
• Professional experience in safe workplace policies and procedures
• Professional experience mentoring and leading direct and indirect reports
• Valid driver’s license
• Evidence of sensitivity to and an understanding of the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability, and ethnic backgrounds of faculty/staff and students, and to staff and students with disabilities.
• Strong organizational, leadership, and time management skills
• Well-developed communication skills, demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and persuasively verbally and in writing on both an interpersonal and group level
• A strong interest in engaging college students through the arts
• Ability and willingness to exercise professional courtesy and discretion at all times and maintain confidentiality as required.
• Ability to delegate tasks to others in order to keep the flow of work moving forward at an efficient rate
• Attention to detail
• Ability to problem solve and engage in creative thinking to overcome challenges
• Maturity and understanding of the artistic process and excellent interpersonal, teamwork, diplomacy, and negotiation skills.
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast paced, rapidly changing environment. * Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to show adaptability in all situations
• Ability to work as a team member while presenting a positive attitude

Housed in a public research university located in a vibrant metropolitan area, the University of Minnesota Department of Theatre Arts & Dance is a collaborative hub for education, research and training in the diverse field of Dance and Theatre. Our students are thinkers and creators who not only make art, but also make a difference. Our five unique programs share a commitment to collaboration and a balanced philosophy of training that combines an expansive liberal arts education with the rigorous study of performance on the stage and in the world. In partnership with local venues and community organizations, we prepare students for exciting and varied careers as well as lifelong journeys of creativity and learning. We are a diverse group of artists and scholars with a wide range of talents and interests. Read more about the research and creative work of our faculty as well as the hands-on student employment opportunities.

Pay Range: $52,375.18 – $64,890; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% time Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online Application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your “My Job Applications” page and uploading documents in the “My Cover Letters and Attachments” section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

Required Application Materials:

• Resume
• Cover Letter

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation’s most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America’s Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).