Director of Production

Director of Production Reports to: Artistic Director Location: History Theatre. 30 E. 10th St., St. Paul, MN 55101 History Theatre seeks a Director of Production (DoP) to serve as the operational backbone of our production process bringing primarily new works from script to stage. This full-time, on-site role requires a skilled communicator who thrives on turning complex artistic visions into reality through budgeting, scheduling, and departmental coordination. The DoP ensures that every production is supported by a safe, inclusive, and fiscally responsible environment. PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Foster an inclusive, respectful, and compassionate working environment that champions the Company's values regarding equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. Lead production planning by performing script analysis and participating in season planning; develop, monitor, and report on annual and individual production budgets to ensure artistic visions are balanced with fiscal sustainability. Create and manage the master production calendarincluding build schedules, rehearsals, and techensuring all departments are aligned with the production timeline and overarching organizational goals. Oversee and support the Technical Director, Master Electrician, Costume Supervisor, Stage Managers, and Guest Designers, facilitating effective communication and a collaborative spirit across all creative teams. Manage production logistics, including load-ins, technical setups, and equipment maintenance; serve as the primary point of contact for troubleshooting technical or safety issues during rehearsals and performances. Establish and maintain rigorous workplace health and safety standards across all production departments and performance spaces. Oversee key elements of company management, including the maintenance of shared artist spaces and the coordination of travel and housing for visiting guest artists to ensure a welcoming professional environment. Produce weekly production payroll for artists and over hire staff; coordinate annual Equity listings/riders and ensure accurate end-of-year reporting and compliance. Build and maintain professional relationships with staff, Board members, union representatives, industry colleagues, and local/national vendors. Lead the post-production feedback and evaluation process to identify successes and areas for future operational improvement. Oversee all aspects of production budget management including forecasting, expense tracking, invoice processing, budget reconciliation, and financial reporting to ensure productions remain on schedule and within approved financial parameters. Other duties as assigned. EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: Bachelor's Degree or equivalent experience. Strong organizational, administrative, interpersonal, and creative skills. Flexibility and solution-oriented focus within fast-paced and ever-changing environments and personalities. Professional production management experience. Deep understanding of technical theatre. Experience in various production roles preferred. Ability to maintain and work within a budget. Excellent communication skills, both oral and written Ability to work independently, meet deadlines and multitask. Experience liaising with unions, including Actors' Equity Association and other unions (such as Twin Cities Musicians' Union, Stage Directors and Choreographers Society, USA, and etc.) preferred. Affinity for the mission and goals of History Theatre. Ability to work with a variety of people including artists, designers, staff, volunteers, and patrons in a collaborative team environment Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook required. Experience with AirTable preferred. Competitive pay and benefits package include: Full time, flexible scheduling. Some evening and weekend availability required. Annual salary range is $55,000 - $65,000, depending on previous experience and qualifications. Competitive health and dental insurance. Vacation and sick time package. Employee funded retirement benefit available. HT contributes 50% of parking costs in downtown St. Paul ramp or monthly public transit pass. Complimentary tickets to HT shows History Theatre is committed to creating a culturally diverse environment and is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, genetics, disability status, age, or veteran status. APPLICATION PROCESS: Please Note: Only completed and properly submitted applications will be considered for review. Submit a resume and letter of interest* via email to Ashton Schneider, Business Manager at ... . Please include in the subject line in your email: Director of Production application + your name *Letter of Interest: In addition to telling us why you are interested in the position, you may choose to respond to one of the following prompts: What is a lesson you've learned in production management that isn't reflected in your list of credits? Please share how this insight shapes your approach to leading a production team and collaborating with artistic leadership. OR The landscape of theatrical production is constantly evolving. What is one area of production (e.g., safety protocols, sustainable practices, or community building) that you are particularly passionate about championing, and why is it vital for a theater of our size and scope? HIRING TIMELINE: We are committed to an efficient and transparent hiring process. Below is our anticipated schedule for filling this position: May 8, 2026: Position posted. Applications are reviewed upon submission until the position is filled. May 20, 2026: Initial phone screenings begin, led by the Artistic Director. May 25, 2026: In-person first and second interviews commence with the Artistic Director and key staff. Note: Candidates may be requested to provide professional references and work samples during this stage. June 15, 2026: Formal offer extended to the selected candidate. July 6, 2026: Ideal start date. History Theatre Background Founded in 1978, History Theatre is the only theatre dedicated to preserving the history of Minnesota and the Midwest through quality theatrical productions staged in our 575-seat theatre. Our plays illuminate our shared history and enrich the cultural life of our community. History Theatre employs thirteen FTE's, one PTE staff, and over 110 professional theater artists. Our annual operating budget is $2.5 million. Each year History Theatre produces a Mainstage season of 5-6 plays and musicals while developing new scripts through workshops and staged readings. A host of educational outreach and audience engagement programs for patrons ages 8 to 80 complements and deepens History Theatre's impact. Mission and Values History Theatre entertains, educates, and engages audiences through commissioning, developing, and producing new and existing works that explore Minnesota's past and the diverse American experience. Our work is guided by a core belief that history provides a unique lens through which to see and understand contemporary issues. History Theatre links past to the present, celebrates our common heritage, and illuminates our understanding of what it means to be an American. History Theatre's core values include artistic excellence, showcasing diverse voices and viewpoints, community engagement, lifelong learning, and fiscal responsibility. History Theatre is charting a course for continued excellence in the years ahead. Overarching goals encompass: Transforming our organization into one that embodies diversity, equity, and inclusiveness in programming, management, engagement, and marketing. A commitment to productions of the highest possible artistic quality. Expand access and educational opportunities for adults and youth. Increase the visibility of the Theatre and the artists who work here. Sustain financial stability, keeping artists and staff supported.