Freelance Live Event Production Jobs in Reston, VA

The big picture: Axios is a media company dedicated to providing trustworthy, award-winning news content in an audience-first format. Axios Live brings our journalism to life through dynamic, high-quality live experiences that spark meaningful conversations across business, politics, technology, and culture.

We're looking for a part-time, temporary Production Manager to join our team, a hands-on technical producer who ensures flawless, high-caliber event execution across Axios's public and branded experiences. 

Why It Matters: This role is central to delivering Axios's smart, efficient, and creative approach to live events. As Production Manager, Axios Live, you'll lead technical production and on-site execution for mainstage programs, filmed receptions, and other editorially driven events. You'll serve as the connective tissue between creative vision and real-world production - translating concepts into precise, high-quality experiences that reflect Axios's standards of excellence.

Go Deeper: This is a part-time role requiring approximately 15 - 20 hours per week for 8 weeks with the potential to extend the term. The Production Manager will manage technical planning, vendor execution, and on-site operations. This role requires an agile, solutions-oriented producer who thrives in live, fast-paced environments and balances technical precision with editorial sensitivity. Core responsibilities include:

Technical Production & On-Site Execution

• Lead on-site technical execution for Axios Live events, including audiovisual systems, lighting, staging, livestream, and broadcast operations.
• Create graphics with Adobe After Effects. 
• Serve as show-caller and stage manager for various Axios Live event products. 
• Coordinate site-specific builds, talent rehearsals, and technical run-throughs.
• Oversee vendor setup, show cues, asset management, and technical execution to ensure seamless, brand-aligned experiences.
• Support rapid post-event wrap processes, including media clipping and delivery to editorial and marketing teams.

Vendor & Logistics Management

• Manage all pre-event logistics, timelines, and technical deliverables across multiple concurrent projects.
• Coordinate production vendors, venue teams, and freelance technicians to ensure Axios standards are met.
• Create floor plans in collaboration with the operations team. 

Worthy of your time: We're looking for an experienced, technically skilled producer who embodies a calm, solution-oriented presence and thrives under pressure.

• 6-8 years of experience in event production, with a focus on A/V systems, livestream, and show execution.
• Strong understanding of live event and technical workflows, including rigging, lighting, comms, and streaming platforms.
• Hands-on experience with show-calling, stage management, and backstage coordination.
• Proven ability to manage multiple events simultaneously while maintaining precision, extreme attention to detail, and quality deliverables.
• A "can do" and team-centered attitude with a positive approach to quality work. 
• Strong ability to work independently on specific projects.
• Excellent communication and time-management skills.
• Comfort working in fast-paced environments and solving technical issues in real time.
• Knowledgeable in production documentation (Run of Show , Tech Flows, Shoflo, Asset management)
• Familiarity with project management tools (e.g., Wrike, Airtable) 
• Experience in Adobe products, specifically Adobe Premiere & After Effects.
• Willingness to travel regularly and work early mornings, evenings, or weekends when required.

Contract details: 

• Target engagement period: 8 weeks with the potential to extend.
• Compensation: 
• Pre-Production Hourly -$38.50-$44.00/hour (15-20 hours per week)
• On-Site Flat Rate - $1,500/day (12-hour day)

Axios is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, age, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and apprenticeship. Axios makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.