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Production Stage Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

AMDA

Stage Manager (Part-Time)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

The Stage Manager at the Los Angeles campus will assist with managing theatre events as assigned ... Record blocking and taking notes at production meetings * Most rehearsals are anticipated to be ...

AMDA

Stage Manager (Part-Time)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

The Stage Manager at the Los Angeles campus will assist with managing theatre events as assigned ... Record blocking and taking notes at production meetings * Most rehearsals are anticipated to be ...

AMDA

Stage Manager (Part-Time)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

The Stage Manager at the Los Angeles campus will assist with managing theatre events as assigned ... Record blocking and taking notes at production meetings * Most rehearsals are anticipated to be ...

La Jolla Playhouse

$17.75/hr

Production REPORTS TO: Resident Stage Manager LOCATION: La Jolla, CA on the beautiful UC San Diego Campus STATUS: Non-exempt (hourly); per-show basis COMPENSATION: $17.75 per hour WORKS WITH: LJP ...

AEG Worldwide

Ontario Reign - Stage Manager

Ontario, CA · On-site

Provide production and operational support to the Game Presentation department during all Ontario ... The Stage Manager must possess the following knowledge, skills and abilities and be able to explain ...

Angel City

Stage Managers (Seasonal)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$22/hr

We are looking to hire Stage Managers for Game Presentation & Production. The Angel City FC Stage Managers will work under the supervision of the ACFC event producer, assisting in the coordination ...

Live Nation Entertainment, Inc.

Stage Hand

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $24.25/hr

May assist the Stage Manager with show passes * Maintain and secure House Backline, and supplies ... Stage Production experience * Experience in stage lighting, pro audio systems and basic video ...

Livenation

Stage Hand

Anaheim, CA

$18.25 - $24.25/hr

May assist the Stage Manager with show passes * Maintain and secure House Backline, and supplies ... Stage Production experience * Experience in stage lighting, pro audio systems and basic video ...

2K

Technical Stage Manager

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$123K - $160K/yr

What You'll Do As the Technical Stage Manager you will be tasked with leading the development of the latest Motion Capture technology, expanding your knowledge of programming, audio/video production ...

2K

Technical Stage Manager

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$123K - $160K/yr

What You'll Do As the Technical Stage Manager you will be tasked with leading the development of the latest Motion Capture technology, expanding your knowledge of programming, audio/video production ...

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Production Stage Manager information

See California salary details

$904

$4.1K

$7.7K

How much do production stage manager jobs pay per month?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average monthly pay for production stage manager in California is $4,076.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $3,450.00 and $3,950.00 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 California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,913 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Stage Manager - THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride Perris, CA

Perris, CA

RAIL EVENTS PRODUCTIONS INC
See more jobs at RAIL EVENTS PRODUCTIONS INCexternal

$1.3K/wk

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Stage Manager THE POLAR EXPRESSâ„¢ Train Ride

Division/Department: Rail Events Productions/Run Crew

Reports To: Production Manager & Production Stage Manager

Type of position: Exempt/Salary

Employee Classification: Seasonal

Location: Perris, CA

Compensation: $1,350 / weekly

Job Summary:

Stage Managers work with Production Stage Management and to execute the operating season of THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride event. Stage Managers facilitate rehearsals and technical rehearsals for a cast of 50-60 performers. During daily operations, Stage Managers work with cast, crew, and railroad representatives to run multi-show days to ensure timely execution of each event.  

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Work with Production Staff during pre-production
  • Manage rehearsals under the Director and Production Stage Manager
  • Work in a team of two to setup/teardown rehearsal space, record blocking, reset props, and run sound during rehearsal and tech.  
  • Call the show and oversee the cast and crew during the run of the event
  • Steward the execution of all performances within the vision of the national production staff
  • Become familiar with and reinforce company and railroad safety policies
  • Work with the entire event team to maintain a positive, enjoyable, and rewarding environment for all staff and passengers
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Education, Skill & Work Experience Requirements

  • Prior experience with theatre in non-traditional spaces
  • Able to excel in a fast-paced rehearsal process and tech period
  • Work with a cast of 50+ actors, including minors
  • Must be able to take instructions from train personnel
  • Must be adaptable to changing conditions both on and off the train (train delays, actors/crew out sick, inclement weather)
  • Perform well under stressful situations with a cool and calm demeanor, as well as spending multiple hours on a moving train in a small space
  • Possess a well-spoken manner in personal communications
  • Self-motivation and attention to details
  • Experience using Qlab, Google Suite
  • Be physically capable of lifting heavy objects
  • Must be willing to travel within the United States
  • Must be 18 or over

Work Environment:

  • Majority of time spent in an event setting
  • Varied schedules requiring evenings, weekends, overtime, and holidays
  • Able to stand for prolonged periods of time
  • Varying temperatures and weather conditions; both indoor and outdoor
  • Able to stand and walk on uneven or unsteady surfaces aboard a moving train
  • Time spent in and around an active railroad yard

What’s in it for you?

  • Serve others and create a world of make-believe and magic
  • Competitive pay and a chance to build upon your theater network and make lifelong connections
  • Enrich and positively impact the experience for all – big and small
  • Be part of an inclusive team in a supportive environment with high expectations for self and your fellow teammates
  • Catered meals for 5-show days
  • Comp tickets for your friends and family
  • Potential for end of season bonus 


Working on THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is unlike anything you will ever do.  This immersive experience is entirely unique to Rail Events Productions.  The challenge of producing a full-length production on a moving train is one of the most rewarding experiences as an artist or technician.  With a total cast, crew and front-of-house employees of 60-75 people onsite every day and the possibility of over 2,000 guests, our days can be chaotic. With such a fast-paced environment, the team at Rail Events Productions takes care to properly support and teach everyone the best ways to accomplish their jobs.  We strive to build a space where employees are safe and encouraged to grow throughout their time with the company. 

Rail Events Productions, an American Heritage Railways subsidiary, is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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