Production Manager (Live Events)

Job Description

Job Description

POSITION PURPOSE:

The Production Manager collaborates closely with Producers, Technical Directors, Coordinators, and Creative teams to translate client objectives and approved creative concepts into executable production plans. This role is responsible for managing production logistics, vendor partnerships, budgets, schedules, and on-site execution while ensuring all elements are delivered safely, on time, and within budget.

The Production Manager serves as a key operational leader throughout pre-production, load-in, live event execution, and dismantle, maintaining alignment across internal teams, vendors, and clients.

This position requires regular work on location throughout the South San Francisco Bay Area, with travel as needed.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Production & Operations

• Manage all scenic, exhibit, and environmental production elements, including graphics, signage, and physical structures
• Oversee on-site labor requirements for installation, show operation, and dismantle, ensuring adherence to safety and quality standards
• Coordinate freight logistics, including shipping schedules, load-in/load-out plans, and on-site material handling
• Develop and manage detailed production schedules in collaboration with the Technical Director
• Partner with Technical Directors to coordinate power, lighting, audiovisual, IT, rigging, and heavy equipment requirements

Budget & Vendor Management

• Collaborate with Producers to manage assigned budget line items, track expenses, and forecast costs
• Source, negotiate, and manage vendors, ensuring contractual obligations, timelines, and deliverables are met
• Maintain accurate production documentation, including vendor quotes, purchase orders, labor calls, and production reports

Client & Stakeholder Collaboration

• Interface directly with clients, vendors, venues, and internal stakeholders to scope deliverables and manage expectations
• Proactively identify production risks and implement mitigation strategies
• Support on-site client engagement to ensure a seamless and professional event experience

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure compliance with local regulations, venue requirements, and union labor rules
• Coordinate security and medical resources as required by event scope
• Promote and enforce best practices related to safety, labor standards, and operational efficiency

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• 5+ years of experience managing production for large-scale live events, trade shows, or experiential installations
• Proven experience overseeing event load-in and dismantle operations
• Working knowledge of scenic construction, electrical systems, lighting, AV, IT, and rigging
• Experience managing union and non-union labor crews
• Strong understanding of event safety standards and operational best practices
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously under aggressive timelines

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience working with retail, technology, or corporate brand clients
• CAD experience (creation, markup, or management of design files provided by others)
• Familiarity with production management software, budgeting tools, and scheduling platforms

• Advanced cross-functional collaboration with creative, technical, and production teams 

• Strong vendor negotiation and relationship management capabilities 
• Risk assessment and contingency planning for live environments 
• Clear client-facing communication and expectation management 
• High level of attention to detail in documentation, schedules, and budgets 
• Ability to lead under pressure during live show conditions 
• Proactive problem-solving and decision-making on-site 
• Understanding of scalable production workflows for multi-city or repeat events

Why Join Us?

At Hartmann Studios, you’ll be part of a passionate team that creates unforgettable experiences. This is your chance to work on a high-profile event, flex your creative and logistical muscles, and collaborate with some of the best in the business.