Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Event Production Manager - Music at its Detroit campus location.
Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.
The Event Production Manager will oversee the technical and logistical aspects of live events, ensuring smooth execution by coordinating with artists, venue staff, students, and production teams; maintains budgets and manages all aspects of event production from start to finish. Responsible for the Gretchen C. Valade Jazz Center (GCVJC), a 340-seat venue, the Detroit Jazz Hall, and the 100-seat Dee Dee Bridgewaters, along with all ancillary spaces within the building, as well as the 175-seat Schaver Recital Hall in Old Main. This position will work in collaboration with the Department of Music faculty and staff as well as guide and oversee Department of Music student assistants. This position will report to the Chair of the Department of Music.
Develop and manage event production schedules, budgets, and timelines. Collaborate with artists, tour managers, and venue staff to understand their needs and requirements. Coordinate with faculty, vendors, suppliers, and contractors for equipment, services, and personnel. Scheduling and training students to cover events, ensuring proper staffing. Oversees all aspects of event production, including sound, lighting, staging, and AV. Works with the GCV Chair and Advisory Committee on the scheduling and contracting of professional engagements, coordinating ticketing of these events with the box office manager.
Operate and maintain the audiovisual systems for performance use. This position acts as the GCVJC’s primary a/v technician and is responsible for operating and maintaining digital audio consoles, theatrical lighting consoles, and live streaming video systems. Train students on the use of A/V equipment and operating procedures.
Manage event logistics, including transportation, loading, unloading, and setup/breakdown. Ensures all equipment is in good working order and properly maintained. Oversee crew and staff on-site, providing direction and support. Address any issues or problems that arise during the event. Coordinate building maintenance and custodial services with Facilities Planning & Management. This requires the submission of work orders when issues arise and anticipating custodial needs. Coordinating card swipe and key access with WSU Public Safety.
Maintain clear and effective communication with all stakeholders. Collaborate with other event team members to ensure a smooth and successful event.
Perform other related duties as assigned.
A bachelor's degree from an accredited university or college in music technology or a similar field is required. An equivalent combination of education and experience is also acceptable.
3-4 years’ experience working in live event production and/or music recording and production.
1-2 years’ experience managing a facility.
Technical Skills: Advancing sound, lighting, staging, and other performer needs. Experience with operating digital audio consoles, including a Digico SD9 and Midas M32. Knowledge of ETC lighting consoles and theatrical lighting programming, video recording, and streaming. Managing general repair and maintenance of equipment. Able to troubleshoot A/V issues. Able to manage the Department of Music backline instruments, including Steinway Concert Grand Piano, guitar and bass amplifiers, and drum sets. Knowledge of jazz music and its unique production needs
Project Management Skills: Experience in planning, organizing, and executing events, including developing timelines, managing budgets, and coordinating with vendors and staff.
Problem-solving Skills: Able to identify and resolve issues quickly and effectively, ensuring the smooth execution of events.
Communication and Collaborations Skills: Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with clients, vendors, faculty, and staff, as well as an ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
Budget Management Skills: Track expenses and ensure events stay within budget.
H04 - Fine & Performing Arts
H0404 - Music
The Valade Center has a variety of environmental aspects that can affect your ability to perform required tasks. It is still an active construction site that creates significant dust, requires occasional tasks in the catwalks high above the stage and audience floor, and needs to lift items that weigh over fifty pounds and move large instruments on wheels (e.g., a grand piano, marimba, timpani). This position has a flexible schedule as the candidate will need to be present for evening and weekend Department of Music events, professional events, and occasional rental clients as the building manager. Some evening and weekend work is required.
University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.
Read Full Description