Organization: The Auditorium
Post Date: August 27, 2025
Apply By: September 26, 2025
MISSION
The Auditorium, an Illinois not-for-profit organization, is committed to presenting the finest in international, cultural, community, and educational programming to Chicago and to the continued restoration and preservation of the National Historic Landmark Auditorium Theatre.
VISION STATEMENT
The Auditorium is the Theatre for the People because it aims to make the arts accessible to all, by bringing people from all across the city together to celebrate the performing arts and continuing to present and produce programming that reflects the rich diversity of the great city of Chicago.
VALUES
DIVERSITY
The Auditorium strives to achieve diversity in the broadest possible context. Our goal is for diversity to infuse and be reflected in every dimension of our work, our programs, our performances, our artists, and the people we serve. We believe that diversity means inclusion and accessibility.
INNOVATION
The Auditorium embraces innovation as we employ our talents, creative thinking, and available technology to continuously improve how we approach and execute our work.
EXCELLENCE
Excellence is the cornerstone that connects all Auditorium values. In always aiming to achieve excellence, we perpetually endeavor to attain new heights.
COMMITMENT
The Auditorium thrives on the shared humanity that the performing arts provide, and we are at our best when our leadership, partnerships, and the work we present on our stage reflects the world around us and the audiences that walk through our doors. Core to this belief is a commitment to inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility. We are dedicated to leveraging the transformative power of the arts to fully become the Theatre for the People.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Director of Production is a leadership role responsible for overseeing all aspects of backstage and production operations at The Auditorium. This includes managing personnel, technical operations, facilities, and production logistics to ensure seamless, safe, and high-quality performance experiences. Reporting to the General Manager, the Director plays a strategic role in shaping and advancing production infrastructure, staff development, and artist service excellence aligned with the Theatre’s mission.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & RESPONSIBILITIES
- Oversee the hiring, training, scheduling, and performance management of production staff to ensure exceptional service to artists and clients.
- Prescribe and supervise the maintenance and safe operation of all stage equipment and systems, including lighting, audio, video, lifts, and rigging.
- Supervise union labor to deliver professional, courteous, and efficient support for all stage events.
- Oversee production estimates, technical riders, and equipment rentals to support programming and rental events.
- Advance all confirmed productions, ensuring all backstage needs are prepared and executed at the highest standard.
- Coordinate backstage logistics and provide a world-class experience to artists, companies, and technical crews.
- Maintain safety standards and compliance with city, state, and federal regulations.
- Lead in the maintenance and improvement of the production facilities for daily operations as well as specific production requirements.
- Be point person for all emergency and safety concerns for the Back of House guests, staff, and artists.
- Collaborate with Programming, Operations, and Finance teams to support organizational goals.
- Manage production department budgets, labor settlements, payroll, and capital improvements.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
This position oversees a team of production personnel, including Admin staff, union and non-union staff, contractors, and crew leads.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor’s Degree in Technical Theatre, Production Management, or related field required.
- Minimum 10-15 years of experience in theatrical production, with at least 5 years in a senior management role.
- Extensive knowledge of stage operations, union labor, technical systems, and performance logistics.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
- Demonstrated leadership in managing technical and production teams.
- Superior communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Strong financial management, budgeting, and settlement experience.
- Proficient with production management software; CAD/Vectorworks knowledge preferred.
- Ability to work under pressure, balance multiple priorities, and foster collaborative environments.
- Active commitment to IDEA principles and promoting a diverse, inclusive backstage culture.
WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
This position operates in a historic performing arts venue with exposure to loud sound levels, theatrical lighting, and physically demanding environments. Ability to lift and carry equipment, climb ladders, and navigate tight backstage areas is required.
Must be able to work a varied, flexible schedule in a fast-paced, high- energy artistic environment. Includes evening, weekend, and Holiday hours.
The most significant duties have been included in this description. Other duties may be assigned as necessary. The Auditorium reserves the right to modify this job description as needed to reflect organizational needs.
SALARY RANGE
$75K – $85K
TO APPLY
All candidates must complete an application through Roosevelt University – Roosevelt University Employment Opportunities | Director of Production
The Auditorium Theatre is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, class, religion, country of origin, political belief, (dis)ability, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, or any factor protected by law. BIPOC candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
This role is an on-site role.
