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Stage Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

WILMETTE PARK DISTRICT

Assistant Stage Manager

Wilmette, IL ยท On-site

$16 - $20/hr

The Assistant Stage Manager is responsible for relaying cues to backstage crews and monitoring backstage activity during rehearsals and production under the direction of the Stage Manager. This is a ...

GOODMAN THEATRE

Stage Management Apprentice

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$18.75/hr

Production Manager & Head of Stage Management FLSA STATUS: Full-Time, Hourly, Non-Exempt COMPENSATION RATE: $18.75/hour DATES: September 2026 - June 2027 LOCATION: 170 N. Dearborn St., Chicago, IL ...

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Stage Manager information

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$13

$24

$46

How much do stage manager jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for stage manager in Chicago, IL is $24.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $26.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a stage manager do?

As a stage manager, your job is to support the director of theater performance and ensure the production runs as smoothly as possible. Your duties include keeping track of ordered changes during a rehearsal, helping actors memorize their roles, and running the production during a full show. You may also schedule rehearsals, call out cues, and coordinate the stage crew. Other responsibilities include serving as the primary point of contact for designers and set builders, ensuring props and furnishings are available, and recording the various cues for the performance in a master copy of the script.

What does a stage manager do?

A stage manager is responsible for coordinating all aspects of a theatrical production to ensure everything runs smoothly. They serve as a central communication hub between the director, cast, crew, and designers, managing rehearsals, scheduling, and technical cues. During performances, the stage manager calls lighting, sound, and set changes, ensuring the show is executed as planned. Their organizational skills and attention to detail help maintain consistency and safety throughout the production process.

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

To thrive as a Stage Manager, you need strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, and a solid background in theater production, often supported by a degree in theater or related experience. Familiarity with production management software, cueing systems, and scheduling tools is essential for coordinating complex performances. Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help manage cast, crew, and unforeseen challenges. These competencies ensure smooth operations, timely performances, and the overall success of live productions.

What are some common challenges stage managers face during live productions, and how can they effectively address them?

Stage managers frequently encounter challenges such as last-minute changes to scripts or cues, coordinating large teams with diverse responsibilities, and ensuring smooth communication between cast, crew, and directors. To address these, stage managers must stay organized, maintain clear and timely communication channels, and be adaptable under pressure. Building strong relationships with team members and having detailed contingency plans in place are also key to effectively resolving issues as they arise during live performances.

What is the difference between Stage Manager vs Production Assistant?

AspectStage ManagerProduction Assistant
CredentialsExperience in theater or live events, often with technical knowledgeEntry-level, may require basic knowledge of production processes
Work EnvironmentOn-stage, backstage, coordinating rehearsals and performancesAssist with various tasks across departments, often in office or on-site
Industry UsageCommonly found in theater, live events, TV, and filmUsed across film, TV, theater, and event production

The main difference is that a Stage Manager oversees the entire production process, ensuring smooth operations during performances, while a Production Assistant provides support across departments, handling various tasks to assist the production team. The Stage Manager has more responsibility for coordination and communication, whereas the Production Assistant focuses on assisting with specific tasks.

What qualifications does a stage manager need?

A stage manager typically needs strong organizational and communication skills, experience in theater or production environments, and knowledge of stage management software or tools. Many employers prefer candidates with a background in theater, production, or related fields, and some may require relevant certifications or training. Attention to detail and the ability to coordinate multiple tasks are essential for success in this role.
More about Stage Manager jobs

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

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

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Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Stage Manager job openings:

Stage Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Stage Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,392 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Theatre Stage Manager - Part-time

Wheaton, IL โ€ข On-site

Wheaton Park District
501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Wheaton Park Districtexternal

$16 - $18/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 14 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 ๏ฟฝMandated Reporter๏ฟฝ 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๏ฟฝ 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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