Temporary Props Manager

Berklee College of Music•Boston, MA

13d•$26 - $28•Hybrid

About The Position

The Props Manager at the Boston Conservatory at Berklee (BCB) provides critical props management and care for BCB productions including musicals, operas, plays, etc. The Props Manager manages the Conservatory’s props and furniture stock, constructs furniture and large props in consultation with technical direction, and purchases materials and prop items. Under the department of Performance Services, the Props Manager reports to the Technical Director (Mainstage Theater), and collaborates closely with the full production team, with the deans and chairs of Theater, Dance and Music, and with guest directors and designers. The Props Manager may supervise production technician assistants and student workers, in addition to providing support for any temporary props managers hired based upon production needs.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience.
Two or more years experience working as a props manager, artistisan, and/or designer in a professional theater or other arts environment
Experience working with college students in a professional capacity
Working knowledge of standard theatrical practices and procedures
General knowledge of theater, musical theater, and/or opera production needs
Creative skills necessary
Proficiency in use of hand and power tools, craft work, painting, sewing, upholstery, and any other props-related trades
Familiarity with Microsoft Office, Google Suite and Dropbox for record-keeping and communications

Nice To Haves

A degree in Theater or related field is preferred
Valid MA driver’s license and clean driving record preferred

Responsibilities

Procure, build, and realize all props, furniture, and set dressing for BCB productions across Theater, Dance, and Music Divisions, with a focus on Mainstage and curricular Zack Box performances
Design and maintain comprehensive documentation, tracking processes, and communications around props stock, purchases, repairs, and opportunities
Ensure all rehearsal props are prepared, in good condition, and delivered to stage management prior to staging rehearsals
Initiate and maintain extensive props paperwork for productions in coordination with stage management
Coordinate props meetings with directors, stage managers, and designers as needed
Coordinate transportation to and from off-site props storage as needed, as well as additional transportation to pick up and return rented or newly purchased items
Oversee properties budget for specific productions, including purchases and rentals of materials, specific items, furniture, set dressing, and other items as needed. Ensure productions are achievable within budget, and reconcile all purchases, reimbursements, and/or invoices as needed.
Coordinate shop time or other resources for builds with Technical Director as needed
Attend rehearsals, including technical and dress rehearsals, as needed to support the productions
Schedule, train and supervise additional production technicians and student workers as necessary
Ensure clear and maintained organization of props storage areas
Provide guidance and support regarding props and furniture for curricular and non- curricular performances in the Zack Box space
Ensure performers, staff, and any person handling prop weapons is aware of and follows all prop safety/weapons policies