Backstage Manager Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

About Us: 

16 On Center Chicago owns and operates several live music venues, third-party production, restaurants, bars, and food halls across Chicago and New York. Join the team of one of the country's leading independent promoters.

Our most effective service to our community comes from a team with a diverse mix of minds, backgrounds, and experiences. 16 On Center actively seeks a diverse applicant pool and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply. We provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment, without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Position Summary

As a Barricade Security Agent at Thalia Hall, you will play a key role in ensuring the safety and security of our guests, artists, and staff while delivering an unparalleled concert-going experience. As a venue, we strive to be #1 in Safety and Hospitality, and this role is critical to delivering on that standard. This position operates at the front-of-stage barricade during live concerts and high-energy events, where you will help maintain stage safety, manage crowd movement, and assist with crowd-surfing situations. Whether checking IDs, securing backstage access, or supporting crowd management, your focus will be on maintaining a safe, welcoming environment while upholding our high standards of hospitality.

• Assist with employee and guest ingress, greet and direct crowds, check IDs, and enforce credential checks for backstage and artist areas
• Supervise barricades, the photo pit, and front-of-stage areas to maintain crowd control and support crowd-surfing situations
• Monitor guest behavior to ensure safe crowd management and address inappropriate or unsafe conduct in a timely manner
• Roam the venue and surrounding perimeter to ensure all access points are secure
• Guide guests throughout the venue (restrooms, merchandise, VIP, ADA areas, etc.)
• Assist guests needing medical attention by contacting medical services via radio
• Escort artists and touring personnel as needed while maintaining professionalism and discretion
• Work with the House team to document major incidents during events to support accurate record-keeping
• Resolve guest issues with strong customer service and identify when to escalate to management for additional support
• Enforce the house code of conduct and foster an inclusive, respectful, and welcoming environment
• Learn, communicate, and follow established emergency and evacuation procedures
• Maintain clear and consistent communication with team members and supervisors throughout events
• Perform other tasks or projects as assigned by management

About You

• Previous security experience in music venues or events preferred; military, athletic, or similar experience is a plus
• Current PERC license preferred but not required
• Strong communication skills with a professional demeanor and ability to work effectively within a team
• Friendly and approachable with a strong guest service mindset
• Adaptable and proactive, willing to jump in where needed, whether checking IDs, working barricade, escorting artists, or handling guest issues
• Ability to remain calm under pressure and confidently de-escalate difficult or intoxicated guests in a safety-minded manner
• Comfortable working barricade positions, including assisting with crowd surfers and managing high-energy crowd situations
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (5–6 hours at a time) and perform physical tasks including climbing stairs, bending, stooping, reaching, and carrying
• Must be able to work in both indoor and outdoor environments in varying temperatures and tolerate high noise levels (earplugs encouraged)
• Must be able to communicate via walkie-talkie using an in-ear earpiece
• Flexible availability, including late nights, weekends, holidays, and up to 30 hours per week
• Must be 21 years of age or older
• Commitment to inclusivity and respect for all cultures, music, and art forms

• Mandatory Availability: Open availability is required during Lollapalooza week (end of July/early August) and New Year’s Eve. Time-off requests for these dates will not be considered unless discussed upon hiring.
• Professionalism & Discretion: Employees must maintain composure, professionalism, and maturity around artists and touring personnel at all times. 

• Job Type: Part-Time, Hourly
• Compensation: $20/hour
• Paid leave and paid sick leave in accordance with Chicago requirements.
• Dining discounts at 16 On Center properties and complimentary or discounted tickets to shows at 16 On Center venues, including Salt Shed, Thalia Hall, SPACE, and Empty Bottle, subject to availability.
• Transit benefits through a pre-tax payroll deduction program
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match, once eligibility requirements are met.