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Backstage Manager Jobs in Oklahoma (NOW HIRING)

Backstage Manager information

What does a backstage manager do?

A Backstage Manager is responsible for overseeing all activities and logistics behind the scenes during a theatrical production, concert, or live event. They coordinate with crew members, performers, and technical staff to ensure that set changes, cues, and transitions run smoothly and on time. Their duties include managing props, supervising stagehands, handling emergencies, and maintaining clear communication throughout the event. Ultimately, the Backstage Manager ensures that everything runs seamlessly so the performers and audience can have the best experience possible.

What are some common challenges faced by a backstage manager during live events?

Backstage Managers often encounter challenges such as managing last-minute changes to the show schedule, coordinating communication between performers and technical crew, and resolving unexpected technical issues. Balancing multiple priorities under tight time constraints is a key part of the role, as is maintaining a calm and organized environment backstage. Success in this position requires adaptability, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to make quick decisions to keep the production running smoothly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a backstage manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Backstage Manager, you need strong organizational skills, knowledge of stage management practices, and experience in live event production, often supported by a degree in theater or a related field. Familiarity with stage management software, communication systems like headsets, and scheduling tools is essential. Excellent communication, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure seamless coordination of backstage activities, contributing to successful and safe live performances.

What is the difference between Backstage Manager vs Stage Manager?

AspectBackstage ManagerStage Manager
CredentialsTypically requires experience in theater or event production, sometimes certifications in stage managementRequires similar experience in theater or live event production, often with certifications in stage management
Work EnvironmentBehind the scenes in theaters, concert halls, or event venues, coordinating technical and backstage staffOn stage or backstage, coordinating performers, crew, and technical teams during performances
Employer & IndustryTheater companies, concert venues, live event organizersTheater productions, concerts, live shows

Both roles involve coordinating production elements, but the Backstage Manager focuses on technical and backstage operations, while the Stage Manager oversees the entire performance, including performers and timing. They often work closely but have distinct responsibilities within live productions.

How to become a backstage manager?

To become a backstage manager, gain experience in theater, live events, or production environments, often starting in entry-level roles such as stagehand or production assistant. Developing skills in organization, communication, and familiarity with stage equipment and safety protocols is essential, and some positions may require relevant certifications or training. Building a network within the industry can also help in advancing to a backstage management role.

What are popular job titles related to Backstage Manager jobs in Oklahoma?

For Backstage Manager jobs in Oklahoma, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Backstage Manager jobs in Oklahoma look for?

The top searched job categories for Backstage Manager jobs in Oklahoma are:

Infographic showing various Backstage Manager job openings in Oklahoma as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Theatre Arts Student Assistant

Oklahoma City Community College

Oklahoma City, OK • On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Position Information
Position Information (Default Section)
Classification Title
Student Employment Program (FWSP/STEP)
Working Title
Theatre Arts Student Assistant
Datatel Position ID
AHED8FEDWKST1A / AEHD9AEHSTEP1A
Annual Hours
As needed or assigned not to exceed 25 hours per week or 750 hours in a fiscal year.
Placement Range
$10.00
Position Type
Student Employee
Job Category
Student
General Description
The Theatre Arts Student Assistant will assist Theatre Arts faculty with administrative, organizational, rehearsal, and production-related duties for the Theatre Arts Program and Bruce Owen Theater.
Reports To
Professor of Theatre/Theatre Program Coordinator
What position(s) reports to this position?
None
Minimum Education/Experience
Must be a current OCCC student enrolled in a minimum of 6 hours for the fall or spring semesters or enrolled in a minimum of 3 hours for the summer.
OR
Current OCCC Student with a Federal Work Study Award
AND
Must have successfully completed Introduction to Theatre.
Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Knowledge:Basic familiarity with theatre etiquette, rehearsal processes, and backstage safety
Skills:Strong organizational and communication skills
Willingness to assist with rehearsals, stage management support, and general production coordination
Dependable, self-motivated, and able to work independently when needed
Abilities:Ability to work collaboratively with faculty, staff, and students
Ability to assist with administrative tasks such as filing, copying, and organizing materials
Ability to help organize theatre spaces, props, costumes, tools, and inventory
Ability to assist with scenic construction, technical theatre projects, and other production needs
Ability to adapt to changing production schedules and responsibilities.
Physical Demands/Working Conditions
PHYSICAL/MENTAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:
The work is medium work which requires the person in this position to exert up to 50 pounds of force occasionally require lifting, carrying, pushing, or moving theatre materials, props, tools, or equipment, and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
Additionally, the following physical abilities are required: This position requires the person to frequently move throughout theatre spaces, rehearsal halls, classrooms, backstage areas, and scene shop spaces to perform the essential functions of the position.
This position requires frequent communication with faculty, staff, students, and performers to coordinate rehearsals, productions, and organizational tasks. This position requires the person to frequently communicate with and listen to administration, faculty, staff, students, vendors, and others to perform the essential functions of the position; must be able to exchange accurate information in various situations.
This position requires the person to frequently remain in a standing and stationary position.
This position requires the person to frequently operate a computer, other office machinery, and mobile devices to perform the essential functions of the position.
This position requires the person to frequently operate equipment that involves repetitive motions of the wrists, hands, and/or fingers.
This position requires the person to occasionally ascend/descend stairs, a ladder, scaffolding, ramps, poles, etc. to perform the essential functions of the position.
This position requires the person to frequently position self to move, lift, push, pull, work on, or operate and/or inspect equipment.
This position requires the person to use upper and lower body to exert force up to 50 pounds to grasp, push, pull or lift materials or equipment.
This position requires the person to frequently position self to access materials that may be above head or at ground level.
This position requires the person to perceive attributes of objects, such as size, shape, temperature or texture by touching with skin, particularly that of fingertips.
This position requires the person to judge, observe and assess the accuracy, neatness, thoroughness of work assigned or to make general observations
Preferred Qualifications
Previous participation in OCCC Theatre productions, Stagecraft, or technical theatre experience is preferred but not required.
Required Training
Quarterly compliance training as assigned by institution
Work Hours
As needed or assigned not to exceed 25 hours per week, anytime between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm, Monday - Friday
Department
Division of Arts, English & Humanities
Job Open Date
06/24/2026
Job Close Date
Open Until Filled
No
HR Contact
Rose Sanchez
Special Instructions to Applicants
Applicants are to thoroughly complete the electronic application and attach the required documents: Cover letter, resume and transcript confirming required college coursework and hours.
Posting Number
Student, Work Study, Temporary_0402947
Job Duties
Job Duties (Position Specific)
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions herein described. Since every duty associated with this position may not be described herein, employees may be required to perform duties not specifically spelled out in the job description, but which may be reasonably considered to be incidental in the performing of their duties just as though they were actually written out in this job description.
Job Duties (Duties Assignment Statement)
Assist faculty with copying, filing, and organizing program materials.
Help maintain and organize theatre spaces, props, costumes, tools, and inventory.
Assist with rehearsal setup, scheduling support, and rehearsal facilitation.
Support scenic construction, painting, lighting, sound, and other technical theatre needs as assigned.
Assist with front-of-house or production support during performances and events.
Help maintain cleanliness and organization of theater facilities.
Perform other duties as assigned in support of Theatre Arts programming and productions.
Job Duties (Safety / Policy & Procedures)
Abide by the policies and procedures published in the Board of Regents Policies and College Policies & Procedures.
Contribute to a safe educational & working environment.
Adhere to established safety and health procedures and practices for the purpose of providing injury and illness prevention for self and others.
Complete quarterly health and safety training pursuant to OCCC's established safety and health procedures and practices.
Participate in all applicable OCCC emergency, evacuation, shelter in place drills, and be prepared to take action and assist others in taking appropriate action should a health or safety emergency occur.