House Manager

Milwaukee Repertory Theater•Milwaukee, WI

About The Position

The House Manager ensures a safe, welcoming, and well-organized front-of-house experience for guests attending performances and events at Milwaukee Rep. The role oversees lobby operations, supervises front-of-house staff and volunteer ushers, responds to guest needs, and serves as the primary liaison between patrons, the Ticket Office, and production staff during performances. This part-time, seasonal position averages 12 to 20 hours per week during performance weeks and is compensated at $19.00 per hour. The position reports to the Director of Guest Operations. The House Manager oversees front-of-house operations, prepares public areas for guests, coordinates with operational teams to support timely seating and curtain times, and helps ensure accessibility and safety. The position supports usher check-in and briefings, assigns duties, fosters a positive volunteer experience, and ensures volunteers follow theater policies. Other duties include completing post-performance reports, attending required trainings and meetings, learning the Gift Shop inventory and Toast point-of-sale systems to support Gift Shop Associates, and securing public spaces after performances.

Requirements

At least 2 years of experience in customer service, theater operations, or event management is preferred.
Strong leadership, interpersonal, and written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to manage a fast-paced environment with professionalism and poise.
Patience, empathy, and critical thinking when interacting with guests.
Availability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, in accordance with performance schedules.
Ability to pass a background check in accordance with state and/or federal laws.
Ability to regularly ascend and descend stairs.
Ability to lift and move materials and supplies weighing up to 25 pounds.
Ability to stand, sit, or walk for up to 4 hours at a time.
Ability to communicate in person as part of regular duties.
Ability to use close vision.
Applicants are asked to submit an online application, resume, and cover letter detailing why they are the best candidate.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of ADA accessibility, emergency procedures, and audience safety protocols.
CPR/First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain it; training is provided at the employer’s cost.
A positive, outgoing, and friendly personality; reliability, punctuality, and professionalism.
Strong problem-solving skills and ability to remain calm under pressure.
Attention to detail and pride in maintaining clean, engaging public spaces.
Ability to listen, follow instructions, take initiative, and work independently as well as on a team.
Commitment to creating inclusive, welcoming environments for diverse audiences.
Enthusiasm for live performance and passion for the mission of nonprofit theater.
Willingness to learn new skills and processes, accept and incorporate feedback, and engage in creative problem-solving.
Understanding of historical and institutional racism in American theater, or willingness to learn and commit to the theater’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion mission, vision, and values.

Responsibilities

Oversee front-of-house operations during assigned performances and events.
Ensure the lobby, venues, and public areas are clean, accessible, and ready to welcome patrons, including confirming that TVs and monitors are on and working.
Coordinate with Stage Management, the Ticket Office, Concessions, and the Lubar Lounge attendant to support timely seating and curtain times.
Supervise and support volunteer ushers before, during, and after performances.
Greet guests professionally and warmly and resolve issues with care and discretion.
Assist with accessibility needs, lost and found, and emergency situations as needed.
Enforce safety procedures, including evacuation protocols when required.
Complete post-performance reports covering attendance, incidents, and guest feedback.
Support usher check-in, lead pre-show briefings, and assign usher duties.
Foster a positive volunteer experience through clear communication and appreciation.
Ensure volunteers uphold theater policies and provide excellent guest service.
Act as the primary liaison between front-of-house and backstage teams during events.
Report urgent issues or recurring concerns to the Associate Director of Guest Operations.
Ensure public spaces are properly secured at the conclusion of each performance.
Attend Guest Operations trainings and meetings as required.
Learn Gift Shop inventory and Toast point-of-sale systems to support Gift Shop Associates.
Perform other duties as assigned.