COMPANY MANAGER
Timber Lake Playhouse is currently seeking eager artists + technicians of diverse disciplines to apply for our Resident Production Company, offering a unique professional development opportunity. Resident Production Company Members (affectionately known as the "Lakers") will work across multiple productions during the season, with a compensation package tailored to their roles, including complimentary housing and meals on our recently renovated campus.

This program is designed for a mix of both emerging and established theatre professionals eager to contribute to a professional production environment. While this is an opportunity to grow, it is equally a chance to participate in a high-level artistic and technical model in a carefully curated and supportive environment. Each member of the Resident Production Company will gain valuable hands-on experience in their discipline, whether in scenic carpentry, lighting, sound, costumes, or other technical and creative areas. Members will collaborate closely with industry professionals, fostering skills that will propel their careers in the arts.

We invite passionate emerging artists and technicians to apply for this rigorous and rewarding opportunity. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and possess a strong work ethic, a collaborative mindset, and technical skills specific to their discipline. Professionalism and dedication to high-quality work are essential. Timber Lake Playhouse is committed to nurturing talent and supporting aspiring production professionals in a dynamic and inclusive environment guided by curiosity and kindness.

Start Date: February 2026 (remote, part time)

Remote Prep Period: Beginning upon contracting

Onsite Start Date: April 27th, 2026
End Date: September 13th, 2026

Compensation:
Remote Prep Period: $25/hour (part time, approx 15 hours weekly)
Onsite Season: $650/week + complimentary housing + meals

Reports To: Executive Director; works in close collaboration with the Artistic Director

Position Summary
The Company Manager serves as the primary liaison between Timber Lake Playhouse leadership and the seasonal company of actors, designers, directors, technicians, and guest artists. From first contract through final departure, this role coordinates the logistics that allow our artists to live and work successfully in a fast paced summer theatre environment.

Timber Lake Playhouse produces a full season of mainstage musicals, youth programming, new works, and fall events on a rural campus in Mount Carroll, Illinois. The Company Manager plays a central role in artist services, travel, housing, communication, contracting, onboarding, and day to day company support, helping ensure the season runs smoothly both onstage and off.

This position ideally begins remotely in February and transitions to full time onsite work beginning April 27th.

Responsibilities
Preseason Planning and Onboarding
Coordinate contracting and onboarding logistics for all seasonal artists and staff in collaboration with Executive and Artistic leadership.

Prepare and distribute welcome packets, onboarding materials, arrival information, and company handbook updates.

Coordinate and book travel plans and scheduling for actors, designers, directors, and guest artists.

Maintain a travel budget for the season+rsquo;s company travel.

Develop and manage seasonal housing assignments in partnership with leadership and facilities staff.

Create arrival schedules, transportation plans, and campus orientation materials.

Maintain organized records, databases, and communication systems related to company services.

Housing and Transportation
Coordinate and maintain all company housing throughout the season.

Serve as the primary point of contact for housing concerns, maintenance issues, and roommate coordination.

Document housing conditions, damages, and end of season move out procedures.

Coordinate company vehicles, drivers, airport pickups, and transportation schedules.

Travel to Chicago for pickup and dropoff of seasonal employees as well as organizing volunteer drivers to do so as well.

Assist company members with travel reimbursements and local transportation needs.

Work with cleaning teams and facilities staff to maintain safe and welcoming living environments.

Ensure all arriving team members on campus are greeted and taken to a prepared and clean living space.

Artist Services and Company Support
Serve as the first point of contact for all seasonal company members from first arrival through final departure.

Maintain regular communication with the company during rehearsals and performances to ensure a supportive and professional working environment.

Assist company members with appointments, urgent needs, and unexpected situations as they arise.

Support company morale and culture by helping coordinate company events, gatherings, and hospitality needs.

Collaborate with leadership to maintain a safe, inclusive, and respectful workplace and living environment.

Administrative and Logistical Support
Track company management purchases and expenses and submit receipts in a timely manner.

Assist with payroll onboarding paperwork and documentation.

Collaborate with the finance team on payroll and accounts payable for artists needs weekly.

Serve as a communication liaison between artistic, production, and administrative departments.

Support special events, donor events, and organizational initiatives as needed.

Assist with company departures, travel coordination, and end of season closeout.

Provide general operational support across departments during peak season.

On Call and Season Support
Be available to respond to urgent company needs and emergencies when necessary.

Work evenings and weekends as required by the production schedule.

Assist with opening night, closing night, and special event logistics.

Maintain a calm, solutions oriented approach in a fast paced and high transaction environment.

Perform additional duties as assigned to support the success of the season.

Qualifications
1 - 3 years of company management, stage management, arts administration, or production management experience preferred.

Strong organizational and communication skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Experience coordinating travel, housing, or large group logistics strongly preferred.

Ability to maintain discretion and professionalism with sensitive information.

Comfort working in a rural environment and living on campus during the season.

Valid driver+rsquo;s license required. Personal vehicle preferred.

Ability to work flexible hours, including late evenings and early mornings.

A collaborative spirit, strong problem solving skills, and genuine interest in supporting artists.

A positive attitude, sense of humor, and ability to remain calm under pressure.

Timber Lake Playhouse is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Applicants from populations underrepresented in the theater field are strongly encouraged to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, familial status, sexual orientation, national origin, ability, age, or veteran status.

Please send an email to casting@timberlakeplayhouse.org with your name and position of interest in the subject line. Please attach your resume and any pertinent materials for consideration.