Associate Production Manager | Detroit Public Theatre 2026-27
- Jul 27
- 3 min read
COMPANY NAME
Detroit Public Theatre
POSTING CATEGORY
Technicians/Crew
COMPENSATION
Paid
PAY RATE
$45,000 Salary + Benefits
DESCRIPTION
Job Title: Associate Production Manager
Job Description: The Associate Production Manager is responsible for the hands-on execution and supervision of all technical aspects of production, under the direct oversight of the Production and General Manager. This role balances practical, on-the-ground work with planning and coordination, ensuring productions are realized safely, efficiently, and in alignment with artistic vision and available resources.
The Associate Production Manager will receive intentional training and mentorship from the Production Manager and designated professional designers, supporting the development of industry-recognized technical and professional competencies.
Duration: 12 months (aligned with production season)
Key Responsibilities: Production & Technical Execution Oversee scenic construction, load-ins, technical rehearsals, performance notes and strike. Interpret design drawings and concepts, offering practical solutions appropriate to scale, schedule, and budget, in conjunction with the design team, head carpenter and Production Manager. Coordinate and integrate designer vision into stage operations. Serve as the primary technical contact between and build and design team throughout the production process. Crew Leadership & Collaboration Schedule, and supervise build crew, technicians and run crew, and over-hire personnel as needed. Ensure clear communication across departments. Foster a collaborative, respectful, and efficient production culture. Facilities, Equipment & Safety Maintain theatre spaces, shop areas, tools, and technical equipment. Work with the operations and stage management team to ensure compliance with safety standards and best practices for professional theatre environments. Conduct risk assessments and implement safety protocols during builds, rehearsals, and performances. Budget & Resource Management Work with Production Manager to source materials creatively and cost-effectively. Maintain inventory and recommend repairs or upgrades within organizational capacity. Organizational Support Support special events, rentals, or community programming as assigned. Assist with load-ins/outs for visiting artists or productions when applicable.
Qualifications & Experience: Demonstrate professional understanding of technical theatre or production management. Strong hands-on skills in scenic construction and stage operations. Working knowledge of lighting, sound, projections, costume and prop design, rigging, and stage systems. Ability to work in compliance with Actors’ Equity Association (AEA) and United Scenic Artists (USA) union agreements, including work rules, safety standards, and contractual obligations. Ability to work independently and adapt to the varied demands of a small organization. Excellent problem-solving, organization, and communication skills. Availability for evenings and weekends as required by production schedules. Physical Requirements Ability to lift up to 50 pounds. Ability to work at heights, on ladders, and in physically demanding environments.
Reports To Production and General Manager
Assistant Production Manager Production & Technical Execution Oversee scenic construction, load-ins, technical rehearsals, performances, production notes, and strike. Interpret design drawings and concepts, offering practical construction solutions appropriate to the production's scale, schedule, and budget. Coordinate the implementation of designer vision into technical execution. Serve as the prima 17ry technical liaison between the design team and build crews throughout the production process. Produce construction drawings, build schedules, and shop documentation as required. Crew Leadership & Collaboration Schedule and supervise shop staff, technicians, run crew, and overhire personnel. Assign daily work priorities and monitor progress toward production deadlines. Foster clear communication among technical departments. Promote a collaborative, respectful, and efficient working environment. Facilities, Equipment & Safety Maintain theatre spaces, scene shop, tools, rigging, and technical equipment. Coordinate equipment maintenance and recommend repairs. Work with Operations and Stage Management to ensure compliance with safety standards and best practices. Conduct risk assessments and implement safety procedures during construction, rehearsals, performances, and strikes. Budget & Resource Management Track material usage and construction expenses. Source materials creatively and cost-effectively in consultation with the Production Manager. Maintain inventory of scenery, hardware, lumber, and technical equipment. Recommend equipment upgrades or replacements. Organizational Support Provide technical support for special events, rentals, and community programming. Assist with load-ins and load-outs for visiting productions and artists. Support theatre operations as assigned by the Production Manager.
START DATE
August 17, 2026
END DATE
July 30, 2027
UNION STATUS
Non-Union
HOW CAN APPLICANTS APPLY
To apply please send cover letter, resume, and any supporting materials to employment@detroitpublictheatre.org Please include APM APPLICATION in the title line.
