Backstage Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Position Details
Position Information
Working Title
Assistant Production Manager/Stage Manager
Position Number
FA458
FLSA
Exempt
Appointment Type
Full Time
Sensitive Position
No
Sensitive Position Statement
Campus Security Authority
Yes
Campus Security Authority Statement
This position is designated as a Campus Security Authority. A Campus Security Authority (or CSA) is defined as an "official of the institution with significant responsibility for student and campus activities". A CSA is required to immediately report any crime that is reported to them to the University Police who will then review, evaluate, and investigate the reported crime. Annual training is required by the Department of Education for all personnel who have been designated as a Campus Security Authority.
Designated Personnel
No
Designated Personnel Statement
Statement of Economic Interest
No
Statement of Economic Interest Statement
Restricted Position
No
Restricted Position Statement
Chief Objective of Position
Assists in providing administrative planning, budgeting and supervisory direction for all production activities in the Ferguson Center for the Arts to ensure maximum use of facility and ensure safety of all involved. Will be called on to supervise and assist in other allied activities connected with the operation of the other facilities and events scheduled at the University as determined by the Administration.
Work Tasks
At the direction of the Production Manager, the Assistant will schedule work calls, prepare estimates, procure equipment, schedule, execute and fulfill production advance calls, manage and lead technical crews, function as a crew member, serve as a stage manager calling shows, managing casts- sometimes fulfilling the responsibilities of both company manager and stage manager, train new crew members and students.
Develop and maintain very positive and professional customer service and/or relations within the
office/department and with all constituencies to include students, faculty, staff, guests, and employees. Demonstrate a positive and professional attitude and treat everyone with dignity and respect. Fully support the "Student's First" value at CNU and routinely goes the extra mile in providing service.
Follow workplace safety regulations and adhere to applicable standards, processes, and programs established for your position. Promote a safe and healthy work environment by ensuring the implementation of safety regulations and applicable standards, processes, and programs established for employees under your supervision.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities (KSA's) related to position

• Knowledge of standard theatrical tools, systems, and equipment, including lighting, sound, rigging, staging, and backstage operations.
• Knowledge of occupational hazards and accepted safety practices in a performing arts environment.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills. Results-focused. Strong organizational skills.
• Ability to assist in the coordination and execution of all production elements for major professional touring attractions.
• Ability to support and assist the Production Manager in a high-volume, multi-event venue.
• Ability to function as a Stage Manager, including working with cast, crew, designers, and visiting artists.
• Ability to schedule and run rehearsals as assigned.
• Ability to call cues and manage live performances.
• Ability to maintain backstage order and enforce performance protocols.
• Ability to substitute into various positions on a traditional technical crew.
• Ability to function as both a crew leader and a crew member depending on production needs.
• Ability to supervise, mentor, or coordinate student workers, interns, and over-hire crew.
• Ability to assist with production scheduling, space management, and coordination of multiple events.
• Ability to assist with production timelines, load-ins, load-outs, and strike operations.
• Ability to work effectively with a wide range of individuals.
• Ability to establish priorities and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Ability to work productively as part of a team and independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to learn and use production-related software applications as needed.
• Physical ability to work long hours as required.
• Physical ability to lift, stand, climb, and work in confined or elevated spaces.
• Ability to work highly irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, based on event schedules.
• Commitment to a collaborative, service-oriented production environment.

Required Education
Master's Degree or Bachelor's degree with work experience that equates to an advanced degree.
Additional Consideration - Education
Master's degree in Theatre or related field with an emphasis in technical theatre and/or stage management, or a Bachelor's degree with significant work experience that equates to a Master's degree is required.
Experience Required

• Technical theatre or production experience in a multi-use performing arts facility.
• Experience in stage management for live performance, including rehearsals, technical rehearsals, and performances.
• Experience collaborating with artists, designers, production staff, and visiting technical personnel.
• Experience using personal computers, including word processing, spreadsheet, database, and production-related software applications.
• Experience in theatre operations, technical production, facility operations, and maintenance.
• Experience in stage management for live performance.

Additional Consideration - Experience
Management experience coordinating and supporting all technical aspects of productions in a complex, multiple-use environment. Experience making critical operational decisions and solving problems in real time. Demonstrated experience working with professional touring productions and presenting organizations. Experience advancing productions and working from technical riders, schedules, and production documentation. Experience supervising or coordinating technical staff, student workers, and/or over-hire crew. Experience collaborating with artists, designers, production staff, and visiting technical personnel. Theatre experience in a college/university setting.
Salary Information
Salary starting at $50,887 to $69,969, Commensurate with Education and Experience.
CNU Information
Christopher Newport University is anchored in excellence, and that is reflected in our ranking as the #1 regional public university in Virginia and #3 among regional public universities in the South. We are an inclusive and kind community, founded on our shared values of honor, scholarship, service and leadership. We offer an outstanding liberal arts education provided by dedicated, gifted teacher-scholars who are supported by a compassionate team of faculty and staff. Our 4,500 undergraduate and graduate students pursue more than 90 areas of study, as they live and learn on a largely residential campus. CNU's on-campus performing and visual arts centers offer Broadway shows, world-class performances, engaging exhibitions, transformative lectures and classes, and more. Our athletics program is the winningest at any level in Virginia.
Christopher Newport University is in the heart of Newport News, a vibrant city with breathtaking scenery and unique experiences. The city and region offer affordable neighborhoods, local and name-brand shops, diverse dining options, local parks and water access, and fun recreational opportunities. Whatever your interests and goals, you belong at CNU! For further details and information about Christopher Newport, visit cnu.edu.
Is this position telework eligible?
No
Telework Eligibility Disclaimer
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
AP453P
Number of Vacancies
Posting Date
04/03/2026
Review Begin Date
05/03/2026
Application Instructions
Interested parties are requested to submit a cover letter; current resume; and the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of at least three professional references at the time of application.
This position will be posted until filled; however, review of applications will begin on 05/03/2026.
Search finalists are required to complete a CNU sponsored background check.
Christopher Newport University (CNU) will make a reasonable effort to accommodate persons with disabilities in the application and/or interview process. Persons with disabilities who require accommodation should contact the CNU Human Resources Office by calling (757) 594-7145.
Quick Link for Internal Postings
https://jobs.cnu.edu/postings/20602
EEO/Diversity Statement(s)
Christopher Newport University, an EO Employer, is fully Committed to Access and Opportunity.
Notice of Non-Discrimination & Title IX Policy Statement