Production Manager - Music Department

William Paterson University•Wayne, NJ

1d•$66,067 - $75,986•Onsite

About The Position

William Paterson University is seeking a Production Manager for its Music Department. This role is responsible for leading end-to-end production for Music Department events in the Shea Center and Black Box Theatre spaces. These events include the Jazz Series and Summer Jazz Series, musical theatre, opera, major department concerts, smaller ensemble performances, and student recitals. The Production Manager ensures that each engagement is advanced, staffed, and executed safely, on schedule, and within budget. The position reports to the Chair of the Music Department with a dotted line to the Managing Director of the Shea Center for the Performing Arts. The university is a purpose-driven, diverse community committed to creating transformative experiences and fostering a workplace that values growth, flexibility, and community. It is recognized as a Forbes’ Best Employers by State and a Great College to Work For.

Requirements

A bachelor’s degree in technical theatre, theatre production, production management, or a closely related field.
Three to five or more years substantial hands-on experience overseeing technical teams and productions in professional theatre or live performance.
Strong command of venue safety and code compliance.
Expertise in budgeting and scheduling.
Ability to communicate clearly under pressure to resolve issues.
Ability to maintain meticulous documentation.
Proficiency with industry tools such as Vectorworks or AutoCAD together with standard productivity software.
An ability to mentor and develop student technicians and early-career staff.
Must be reliable and punctual.
Must have theater experience.
Ability to read a musical score as needed for stage manager responsibilities.

Nice To Haves

A Master’s degree/MFA in technical theatre or production management.
Certificates or advanced coursework in areas such as audio engineering, lighting design, rigging, stage management, or Vectorworks/AutoCAD/QLab.
Senior-level experience in arts/non-profit or university performing-arts centers.
Advanced capability in lighting and sound system design and shop workflows.
Experience supervising mixed personnel groups that may include union crews.
Familiarity with current theatre technologies and rental-supported programming.
Experience within higher-education performing arts centers.
Successful collaboration across University arts units.

Responsibilities

Build season production calendars and staffing plans.
Coordinate technical riders and venue needs.
Prepare preliminary part-time staffing budgets for leadership review.
Schedule rehearsals, load-ins, performances, and load-outs, in collaboration with UPA and the Music Chair.
Supervise student workers and overhire crews, considering student availability and work-study opportunities.
Support select University and Shea events as needed, with Music Chair approval.
Provide technical oversight across lighting, sound, set builds, rigging, costumes/props, and special effects, ensuring safe operations and compliance with University policies and public assembly standards.
Present clear documentation and communication among artists, faculty, designers, and vendors.
Mentor student technicians and stage managers, reinforcing professional practices.
Serve as Production Stage Manager for rehearsals, dress rehearsals, and performances, including curricular staged musical works.
Coordinate props and costumes from the University’s collection.
Take detailed blocking notes, conduct script analysis, and develop prompt books.
Maintain consistency, communication, and safety across performances.
Perform other duties as necessary and appropriate for the position.