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Production Stage Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HOUSTON SYMPHONY SOCIETY

Stage Manager

Houston, TX · On-site

The Stage Manager provides essential support to the Director of Concert Operations and the ... When on tour, serve as supervisor of the Houston Symphony's production/stage road crew, and as ...

HOUSTON SYMPHONY SOCIETY

Stage Manager

Houston, TX · On-site

The Stage Manager provides essential support to the Director of Concert Operations and the ... When on tour, serve as supervisor of the Houston Symphony's production/stage road crew, and as ...

Boston Conservatory

Stage Manager

Boston, MA · On-site

$57K - $62K/yr

Reporting to the Production Operations Manager, the Stage Manager serves as the Production Stage Manager (PSM) for assigned productions-including plays, musicals, operas, and dance performances-and ...

Berklee College of Music

Stage Manager

Boston, MA · On-site

$57K - $62K/yr

Reporting to the Production Operations Manager, the Stage Manager serves as the Production Stage Manager (PSM) for assigned productions-including plays, musicals, operas, and dance performances-and ...

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Production Stage Manager information

See salary details

$916

$4.1K

$7.8K

How much do production stage manager jobs pay per month?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average monthly pay for production stage manager in the United States is $4,130.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $3,500.00 and $4,000.00 per month, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a production stage manager?

Production Stage Managers are essential members of a theater or live event production team who coordinate all aspects of a performance. They serve as the communication hub between directors, cast, crew, and designers, ensuring that rehearsals and performances run smoothly and on schedule. Their responsibilities include organizing rehearsals, managing cues, calling technical elements during shows, and troubleshooting issues as they arise. A Production Stage Manager is crucial for maintaining order and consistency throughout the production process.

What does a production stage manager do?

The production stage manager ensures the success of a theater show. Responsibilities and duties of a production stage manager include knowing the stage layout, understanding the set, scheduling rehearsals, assigning scripts to the production team, and monitoring performance running times. Small productions may have only one stage manager while larger productions employ an entire management team. Qualifications for stage managers are typically a bachelor’s degree in fine arts and 2-3 years of experience working on a stage. Essential skills for this career are exceptional team management abilities as well as communication and organizational skills. This job may require working long hours, weekends, and holidays depending on the theater.

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

To thrive as a Production Stage Manager, you need strong organizational abilities, leadership skills, and in-depth knowledge of theatrical production processes, often supported by a degree in theatre or equivalent experience. Familiarity with scheduling software, cueing systems, and production management tools is typically required. Exceptional communication, problem-solving, and multitasking skills set individuals apart in this role. These competencies are vital for ensuring seamless coordination among cast and crew, maintaining production quality, and resolving issues efficiently during live performances.

How does a production stage manager typically coordinate with different departments during a live performance?

A Production Stage Manager acts as the central communication hub between the creative team, technical crew, performers, and front-of-house staff. They ensure that cues, changes, and any real-time issues are coordinated seamlessly by running technical rehearsals, distributing prompt books, and leading pre-show briefings. Effective collaboration often involves anticipating potential problems, maintaining clear documentation, and adapting quickly to on-the-fly adjustments, all of which help deliver a smooth and professional production.

What is the difference between Production Stage Manager vs Stage Manager?

AspectProduction Stage ManagerStage Manager
CredentialsExperience in production coordination, relevant certifications often preferredSimilar credentials, often with theatrical or event management background
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in live productions, theater, concerts, or large-scale eventsIn theater, concerts, or live shows, often working closely with cast and crew
Employer & IndustryProduction companies, theaters, concert venuesTheaters, touring companies, event organizers

The Production Stage Manager and Stage Manager roles share many similarities, including credentials and work environments. However, the Production Stage Manager typically oversees larger productions and coordinates multiple departments, while the Stage Manager focuses more on the day-to-day operations on stage. Both roles are essential in live event production, with overlapping skills but different scopes of responsibility.

How much does a production stage manager make?

A production stage manager's average salary varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $40,000 to $80,000 annually. Experienced managers working on large productions or in major markets can earn higher salaries, often supplemented by overtime and per diem allowances for long hours and travel.

Is being a production stage manager worth it?

A production stage manager oversees the coordination of theatrical, concert, or event productions, ensuring schedules, technical elements, and personnel work smoothly. The role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations, often involving long hours and irregular schedules. Compensation varies by industry and experience, but it can be a rewarding career for those passionate about live production and event management.
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Production Stage Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Production Stage Manager job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,562 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

Production Stage Manager

American Heritage Companies

Durango, CO • On-site

$21 - $26/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Division/Department: Special Events

Job Title: Production Stage Manager

Reports To: Special Events Coordinator

Type of position: Non-Exempt, Hourly

Employee Classification: Regular Full-Time

Pay Range: $21-$26

Location: Durango, CO

Position Summary

The Production Stage Manager is responsible for the operational leadership and execution of all theatrical performances for The Polar Express™ Train Ride. This position ensures that every performance is delivered safely, consistently, and in accordance with licensing and production standards. The Production Stage Manager oversees rehearsals, supervises cast members, maintains show quality, manages performance props, costumes, and event accessories, and coordinates closely with department leaders to deliver exceptional guest experience.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Lead and coordinate all cast rehearsals before and throughout the operating season.
  • Supervise performers and Assistant Stage Managers to ensure each performance is delivered safely, consistently, and according to production and licensing standards.
  • Conduct pre-show production meetings, cast safety briefings, and performance readiness checks.
  • Work alongside Front of House, Ticket Office, Train Operations, Facilities, Security, and other department leaders to ensure effective communication and coordinated event operations.
  • Complete daily production reports and communicate operational updates, concerns, and recommendations to the Special Events Coordinator.
  • Demonstrate sound judgment and the ability to think quickly in high-pressure situations, adapting to operational delays, weather conditions, technical issues, staffing changes, and other unexpected challenges while preserving the quality of the guest experience.
  • Monitor show quality and provide coaching, feedback, and performance direction to maintain a high-quality guest experience.
  • Assist with recruiting, onboarding, training, and mentoring new cast members.
  • Ensure performers follow company policies, safety procedures, licensing
  • Ensure scenes, choreography, dialogue, character interactions, and show pacing remain consistent throughout the season.
  • Coordinate show timing with Train Operations and other departments to ensure efficient departures and seamless guest experiences.
  • Maintain inventory of all performance props, costumes, set pieces, and event accessories.
  • Inspect, organize, distribute, and store production materials before and after each operating day.
  • Coordinate replacement, repair, and maintenance of performance equipment and accessories.
  • Anticipate operational challenges and proactively communicate solutions with leadership before they impact guests or performances.
  • Foster a positive, professional, and collaborative work environment that promotes teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement.
  • Support special events, promotional appearances, media opportunities, and other seasonal initiatives as assigned.

Qualifications

  • Previous experience in stage management, theatrical production, live entertainment, event management, or a related field preferred.
  • Demonstrated leadership experience supervising teams in a fast-paced, guest-focused environment.
  • Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
  • Strong coaching and leadership abilities with a commitment to developing performers and maintaining high production standards.
  • Ability to remain calm, adaptable, and decisive under pressure.
  • Proven problem-solving skills with the ability to make sound decisions in rapidly changing situations.
  • Experience coordinating multiple priorities while maintaining exceptional attention to detail.
  • Ability to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended seasonal hours.
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods, lift up to 40 pounds, and work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.

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