Production Manager

Role Overview

Hancher Auditorium and the Office of Performing Arts & Engagement are hiring a full-time Production Manager to support a busy university arts presenter on campus. In this role, you will act as the main production-centered coordinator connecting Hancher with visiting artists, touring companies, faculty and student performers, campus partners, student production staff, union crews, and community stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Assess production needs, investigate requirements, and assign resources in an effective and strategic way.
• Partner with programming teams to judge feasibility, plan logistics, and deliver a range of performances and campus-based artist residency programs.
• Create and maintain the communication approach for the unit, including appropriate communication methods and timing with departments, support teams, faculty directors, and guests.
• Recruit, coach, and supervise staff while ensuring compliance with University of Iowa policies and procedures.
• Build and oversee a mentorship and training structure for student employees who are an important part of Hancher’s staffing model.
• Support additional production and operational needs as assigned.

About Hancher Auditorium

Hancher is a university arts presenter with more than 50 years of history, located in a modern multi-use facility that opened in 2016. The venue presents more than 80 events each season, supports student performance productions, hosts campus events such as commencements and departmental celebrations, and serves the broader community. Its work contributes to the University of Iowa’s performing arts vision and to the Performing Arts at Iowa collaboration across academic departments, the production unit, and Hancher Auditorium.

Required Experience and Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in technical theatre, stage management, or an equivalent mix of relevant education and experience is required; a master’s degree is preferred.
• Typically 3 to 5 years of substantial technical production experience, including hands-on knowledge of theatrical systems such as lighting, performance sound, rigging, and personnel supervision.
• Experience working in a multipurpose venue that presents Broadway, dance, theatre, orchestra, chamber music, and popular or commercial events.
• Practical experience working with professional touring productions.
• Some management experience is expected.
• Experience working with union laborers is required.
• Ability to stand and walk for long periods and lift up to 50 pounds.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.

Competencies

• Strong written and spoken communication skills.
• Proven interpersonal ability and relationship-building skills.
• Broad proficiency in production management competencies.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience scheduling, working with, and negotiating agreement terms with a professional stagehands union is highly valued.
• Background in an educational institution is an advantage.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit both a current resume and a cover letter and mark each as a relevant file in the application process.

Other Details

The posting remains open for at least 7 calendar days and may be closed and filled at any time after that initial period. Final candidates must self-disclose any conviction history and will undergo a criminal background check as well as credential and education verification. Up to 5 professional references may be requested later in the selection process.

Work Arrangement

This is an on-campus position located at Hancher Auditorium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Compensation and Benefits

The anticipated salary range is $70,000 to $77,500, along with competitive benefits. Benefits include strong health coverage, university-paid life insurance, retirement plans, generous leave, 24/7 support services, well-being resources, access to UI Health Care specialists, professional training, leadership development, and tuition assistance.

Additional Information

• Classification title: Production Mgmt Manager
• Appointment type: Professional and Scientific
• Schedule: Full-time
• Work modality option: On Campus
• Pay level: 5A
• Starting salary minimum: 70,000

Contact Information

• Organization: Provost
• Contact person: Monica Frank
• Contact email: monica-frank@uiowa.edu