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Backstage Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

16 On Center LLC

Security Agent

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20/hr

Whether checking IDs, securing backstage access, or assisting with crowd management, your focus will be on maintaining a safe, welcoming environment while upholding our high standards of hospitality ...

16 On Center

Security Agent

Chicago, IL

$20/hr

Whether checking IDs, securing backstage access, or assisting with crowd management, your focus will be on maintaining a safe, welcoming environment while upholding our high standards of hospitality ...

16 On Center

Security Agent

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18 - $23.50/hr

Whether checking IDs, securing backstage access, or assisting with crowd management, your focus will be on maintaining a safe, welcoming environment while upholding our high standards of hospitality ...

Thalia Hall

Security

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20/hr

Whether checking IDs, securing backstage access, or assisting with crowd management, your focus will be on maintaining a safe, welcoming environment while upholding our high standards of hospitality ...

16 On Center LLC

Barricade Security Agent

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20/hr

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.

16 On Center

Barricade Security Agent

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20/hr

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.

16 On Center

Barricade Security Agent

Chicago, IL

$20/hr

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.

16 On Center

Barricade Security Agent

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20/hr

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.

Thalia Hall

Security

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20/hr

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.

Odeum Labor Services

Be Seen First

Freelance Production Carpentry Crew

Chicago, IL · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Our in-house project managers handle logistics and communication -- so our freelance professionals ... In person Company Description Odeum Labor Services (OLS) was born from the backstage world. Founded ...

William Blair

Senior DevOps Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$133K - $172K/yr

Support GitHub repository management, branching strategies, PR workflows, and policy enforcement ... Backstage experience highly desired. * Azure certifications such as Azure DevOps Engineer Expert or ...

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All JobsBackstage JobsBackstage Manager JobsBackstage Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL

Backstage Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$45.3K

$110K

$178.2K

How much do backstage manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for backstage manager in Chicago, IL is $110,046.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,700.00 and $148,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Backstage jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Backstage jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Backstage Manager jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Backstage Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Backstage Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Backstage Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backstage Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $110,046 per year, or $52.9 per hour.

Theatre Stage Manager - Part-time

Wheaton Park District

Wheaton, IL • On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

GENERAL PURPOSE
Responsible for organizing, coordinating, and overseeing all aspects of production to ensure rehearsals and performances run safely, efficiently, and according to the director's vision. They serve as the central communication hub between the cast, production team, designers, technicians, and front-of-house staff.
REQUIRED EDUCATION, QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Minimum age of 18 with a background in theatre.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  1. Organize and run rehearsals, including taking attendance and keeping rehearsals on schedule.
  2. Develop and maintain production paperwork, including prompt books, contact lists, schedules, and cue sheets.
  3. Oversee all backstage activity during rehearsals and performances, maintaining organization, communication, and safety while troubleshooting issues as they arise.
  4. Supervise, and support the backstage crew and volunteers, ensuring all crew members understand their responsibilities and execute scene changes and backstage tasks safely and efficiently.
  5. Call lighting, sound, fly, projection, and scene change cues during performances.
  6. Provide support during auditions, callbacks, and cast meetings as needed.
  7. Follow the Wheaton Park District policies, procedures, and guidelines.
  8. Proactively support the Districts Mission, Vision, and Values.
  9. Maintain good safety awareness and follow all safety guidelines and procedures.

REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSES, ETC.
Must have and maintain: valid driver's license with acceptable driving record; CPR/AED certified or obtain within three (3) months of employment. Be a "Mandated Reporter" for the Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Must be able to: occasionally remain in a stationary position for long periods of time and frequently move about for extended periods of time and ascend/descend stairs/ladder; and frequently position ones' self to move items such as stage props, etc. weighing up to 40 lbs. and occasionally overhead and shoulders up to 40 lbs.
ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS
Must be able to: consistently work indoors in a theater environment with exposure to dust, odors, and heights up to 12 feet.
HOURS
Rehearsals are typically Monday/Wednesday 4:30-7pm and Saturdays 9a-12p
SALARY
$16.00 - $18.00 per hour DOQ
SALARY RANGE
*Specialized Services*
  • This category recognizes that certain positions within the District do not fit traditional job grades.
  • Jobs in this category are populated by part-time instructors/fixed amount/gratuity based/other positions.

Wheaton Park District is an equal opportunity employer. EOE/M/F/D/V

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