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Backstage Manager Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

PRAx Student Tech

Corvallis, OR ยท On-site

$15.75 - $20/hr

... backstage elements as well as tables, chairs and other materials for events. This is an ideal ... Collaborate with directors, designers, and stage managers to meet artistic and technical needs.

Stage Hand - 2026

Bend, OR ยท On-site

$20/hr

... Manager. This role requires physical stamina, the ability to follow direction, strong teamwork, and a professional approach to backstage work. Responsibilities โ€ข Assist with load-in and load-out of ...

Carpenter II

Ashland, OR ยท On-site

$27.25/hr

Join the Backstage Magic! OSF Is Hiring a Carpenter II Location: Ashland, OR | Department: Scene ... Perform other duties as assigned by scene shop management staff. Work Experience: Two years of ...

Carpenter II

Ashland, OR ยท On-site

$27.25/hr

Join the Backstage Magic! OSF Is Hiring a Carpenter II Location: Ashland, OR | Department: Scene ... Perform other duties as assigned by scene shop management staff. Work Experience: Two years of ...

Production Runner

Bend, OR ยท On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

This is a working backstage environment, and professionalism is required at all times. Personal fan ... Production Runners are venue employees and work under the direction of the Production Manager and ...

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 Oregon?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Backstage Manager job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Wardrobe and Hair Manager

Oregon Shakespeare Festival

Ashland, OR โ€ข On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Now Hiring: Wardrobe and Hair Manager
Department: Production | Reports to: Production Manager
Status: Full-Time, Exempt (40+ hours/week)
Salary Range:  
Location: Ashland, OR

The Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF) is seeking an experienced and collaborative Wardrobe and Hair Manager to lead our Wardrobe, Hair, Wig, and Makeup operations. This role is ideal for an accomplished theatrical professional who brings strong people leadership, production expertise, and a commitment to maintaining artistic excellence throughout a repertory season.

The Role You’ll Play

As Wardrobe and Hair Manager, you’ll lead a unionized team responsible for successfully opening, running, and closing OSF productions. You’ll oversee staffing, scheduling, budgets, safety, and department operations while partnering across Production to maintain the integrity and quality of costume, hair, wig, and makeup designs throughout the season.

What You’ll Do

Team Leadership: Recruit, hire, schedule, coach, and supervise Wardrobe and Hair personnel while supporting onboarding, performance management, and professional development.

Production & Show Support: Oversee wardrobe, hair, wig, and makeup operations for assigned productions, including technical rehearsals, run crews, quick changes, show documentation, and ongoing maintenance.

Artistic & Quality Oversight: Ensure the integrity of costume and hair designs is maintained throughout the season while balancing artistic needs with available resources.

Budget & Operations: Develop and manage annual labor, materials, and capital budgets and oversee department equipment, spaces, inventory, and administrative processes.

Cross-Department Collaboration: Partner closely with the Costume Shop, Stage Management, Production Management, and other teams to coordinate show needs, schedules, performer support, and backstage operations.

Safety & Compliance: Maintain safe, sanitary workspaces and ensure compliance with applicable theatrical, AEA, and Oregon Health Licensing Office requirements.

You’ll Thrive Here If You…

Have 5+ years of professional theatrical wardrobe experience, including experience supervising people and/or projects in the entertainment industry.
Are an effective and motivational leader who can manage multiple priorities and respond confidently to last-minute changes.
Bring strong knowledge of theatrical wardrobe operations, quick changes, and run crew planning.
Have experience managing budgets, schedules, and unionized teams.
Communicate effectively and can navigate challenging situations with professionalism and care.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with quick-change choreography and run crew track planning.
Knowledge of industrial and home sewing machines and costume care.
Experience with short- and long-term budget planning.
Familiarity with backstage safety, sanitation requirements, Microsoft Office, and cloud-based systems.
Experience working in a repertory and unionized theatre environment.

Physical & Schedule Requirements

Ability to lift and move costumes and equipment weighing up to 30 pounds, climb stairs, and sit or stand for extended periods. The standard workweek is Tuesday–Sunday, with regular nights and weekends. Significant overtime may be required, particularly during technical rehearsals.

Organizational Background

The Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF) was founded in 1935 in Ashland, OR, and has grown from a three-day festival of two plays to a nationally renowned theatre arts organization that presents a rotating repertory season of up to 10 plays and musicals, including illuminating interpretations of Shakespeare, other enduring classics, and new works. OSF productions have been presented on Broadway, internationally, and at regional, community, and high school theatres across the country. OSF received the 1983 Special Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre and is one of the largest nonprofit theatres in the nation with three stages, including an outdoor Allen Elizabethan Theatre.

Statement of Purpose

The Oregon Shakespeare Festival creates world-class theatre, revealing our collective humanity through illuminating interpretations of new and classic plays, and inspiring a love of our art form for current and future generations.

Company Values
  • We are committed to working toward inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility, creating a space of belonging for all audiences and employees—through concrete actions and systemic improvements.

  • We nurture and support our artists, attracting and retaining diverse, innovative talent across the organization.

  • We believe in the transformational power of collaborative artmaking and performance.

  • We recognize the importance of responsible stewardship of resources and sustainable business, financial, and environmental practices.

  • We serve the public good and engage with and respect our community of artists, audiences, staff, local citizens, patrons, donors, and the greater theatre community worldwide.