Assistant Production Manager (Program)/Seasonal Employment

Chautauqua Institution’s Program Office establishes and leads programmatic vision, building programs, relationships, and partnerships that align with Chautauqua Institution’s Mission and strategic plan. The Production Department supports the Program Office in planning and facilitating year-round production in all rehearsal, performance, and program venues, focusing on the 9-week summer season.

The Assistant Production Manager will assist the Production Manager in overseeing all aspects of Production at Chautauqua Institution (outside of the Amphitheater), including managing backstage operations, use and maintenance of production equipment and facilities, and dissemination of information for performances and events. Working with the Amphitheater Production Manager to build and sustain a strong seasonal production team through recruiting, training, and evaluating  Program Production employees. 

About Your Compensation

Compensation for this position starts at $20.00/Hour and, with demonstrated experience and qualifications, candidates may earn up to $25.00/Hour.

About Your Work Day

• Assist the Production Manager to ensure scheduled events receive the necessary production support for timely and seamless execution of programming within the designated CI facilities.  
• Work with the Production Manager to onboard and train all seasonal production staff.
• Act as a leader on the floor and serve as Manager in the Program Production Manager's absence. May be required to collaborate with event managers and internal departments to meet production needs. 
• Advise tours, resident companies, speakers, and CHQ departments on all technical matters, the use of stage equipment, safety rules, and labor rules.
• Liaises with the Orchestra Stage Manager(s) as necessary for the successful execution of orchestral programming. 
• Assist with miking talent, including placement, troubleshooting, and monitoring, to ensure clear, reliable audio during events. 
• Communicate with appropriate departments to ensure all production facilities remain clean and maintained.
• Manage the maintenance and repair of production equipment.
• Provide input on equipment purchases, rentals, repairs, and upgrades.
• Maintain production equipment and inventory to support efficient operation.
• Perform show duties, as needed, to support a performance.

• Plans strategically for the allocation of production equipment and resources. May be necessary to operate a company vehicle. 

• Ensure adherence to safety procedures and best practices to maintain a safe working environment for crew, performers, and patrons. 

• Foster professional and positive communication with crew members, performers, presenters, patrons, and staff to support a welcoming and efficient production environment.

• Stay abreast of best practices and new technology in your field.

• Other duties as assigned.
• Reports directly to the Program Production Manager and subsequently the Amphitheater Production Manager.  

About the Referral Program

Chautauqua Institution’s Referral Bonus Program is a talent solution to recruit, develop, and retain a diverse workforce that encompasses all the skills and experience necessary to deliver on our goals and objectives. Chautauqua Institution will provide a $500 referral bonus (less taxes) for active employees referring a new candidate who is hired and remains employed for at least 90-days from the first physical date of work. In the case of seasonal positions working less than 6-months, the new candidate must remain actively employed for at least 30-days from the first physical date of work and until the closing date of the season. The closing date of the season is the last Sunday in August.

About Your Schedule

Chautauqua Institution and Chautauqua Hotel Company offer flexible schedules, full and part-time, for seasonal employment during summer operations starting annually each June and concluding in August. Seasonal employment may be available earlier (pre-season) and beyond season (post-season) based on business needs and candidate availability. Schedules typically include evenings, weekends, and/or holidays as a requirement.

While you will confirm your final schedule with management at the time of an interview and offer of employment, you should generally anticipate the following schedule options for this position:

You will be scheduled to work an average of 40 hours/week. Scheduled hours may include evenings, weekends, and holidays based on business needs.

About Living on the Grounds

This position offers employer-provided housing.

About Chautauqua Institution

Chautauqua Institution is a not-for-profit global convener of dialogue on the most significant issues of the day through engagement across four pillars of the arts, education, religion, and recreation. The Chautauqua community is located on the shores of Chautauqua Lake in southwestern New York State and comes alive each summer with a unique mix of visual and performing arts, lectures, interfaith worship/programs, and recreational activities. Chautauqua Institution owns and operates Chautauqua Hotel Company, a comprehensive hotel, food & beverage, conference and events organization.

Discovering Your Chautauqua Experience

There are countless ways that our talent will engage with our mission, vision, and diverse communities, and you are invited to immerse yourself in our programming as a gateway to this experience. Employees will receive a traditional Chautauqua gate pass, free of cost, which provides access to many of our programs at the Amphitheater.

Our Commitment to IDEA

Chautauqua Institution values Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) as a priority in our strategic plan, 150 Forward.  One of our five core values is “The dignity and contributions of all people.”  We are committed to creating conditions where everyone can engage as complete and valued participants in the Chautauqua experience.  The Institution is an equal opportunity employer committed to equitable and inclusive hiring practices.  Applicants and employees will not be discriminated against based on any status protected under federal, state, or local law. We especially welcome applications from those who can demonstrate experience, engagement, and professional expertise in IDEA. 

Joining Our Talent Community

Join our talent community online at CHQ.org/employment.  You are encouraged to learn more about Chautauqua Institution at CHQ.org and view the 150 Forward Strategic Plan at 150fwd.CHQ.org.