Independent Contractor - Music Festival Stage Manager

This is a Full Time Job

Member Summary:

Quick Summary (full description below):
The Music Festival Stage Manager oversees the operation of festival stages, managing crew and technical aspects to ensure smooth performances and adherence to schedules.

Years of Experience Required: Minimum 2 years in stage management (24 Months)
Salary: $300 per working day, plus meals, parking, and badge as compensation for advance work
Required Experience: Stage management, volunteer management, team leadership in live event/festival settings
Preferred Skills/Experience: Familiarity with stage equipment, audio systems, lighting, and backline setup
Workplace Requirements: Location in Austin, TX; on-site during the SXSW Music Festival (March 10-15, 2025) and pre-event meetings in February
Education Requirements: Not mentioned
Hard Skills Required: Technical knowledge of stage equipment, audio and lighting systems; schedule management
Soft Skills Required: Organizational, leadership, problem-solving, communication, and interpersonal skills
Benefits: Meals, parking, and festival badge provided

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Full Posting:

SXSW Music Festival
Position: Music Festival Stage Manager
Location: Austin, TX

Description:
The Music Festival Stage Manager is responsible for the smooth operation of assigned stages during the SXSW Music Festival, ensuring all performances are well-coordinated and run on schedule. This role involves overseeing stage setup, technical coordination, and crew supervision.

Key Responsibilities:
• Serve as a primary contact for artists and their teams, ensuring all schedules and requirements are met.
• Manage the setup, operation, and teardown of assigned stages, handling technical and logistical aspects.
• Lead a team of stagehands, volunteers, and technical staff, providing direction and support.
• Collaborate with audio, lighting, and technical teams to ensure proper setup and functionality.
• Monitor and enforce the event schedule, making adjustments as necessary.
• Resolve technical or logistical issues promptly and efficiently.
• Communicate consistently with Assistant Production Managers and other key stakeholders.
• Attend pre-event meetings and SXSW check-ins and oversee live shows during the festival.

Pre-Event Responsibilities:
• Attend three pre-event meetings in February (Mondays, 6-9 PM).
• Complete music showcase advancing, estimated at 5 hours per week.

On-Site Responsibilities:
• Oversee live show execution, ensuring smooth operations per schedule and setlist.
• Guide and support volunteer stagehands throughout the event.

Qualifications:
• Minimum of 2 years of stage management experience in live events or festivals.
• Proven leadership skills and decision-making ability.
• Familiarity with backline, audio, and lighting equipment.
• Ability to handle unexpected challenges and work under pressure.
• Strong communication skills and teamwork orientation.
• Willingness to work long hours, including nights and weekends.
• Must be 21+ years of age.
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs.

Work Schedule:
• Independent Contractor role.
• February Pre-Event: 5 hours per week with three to four in-person meetings.
• Festival Week: March 10-15, 2025, active participation in 4-6 nights of music showcases, with shifts from 4 PM to 2 AM.

Compensation:
$300 per working day, with meals, parking, and festival badge included as additional compensation.