Production Manager - Live Music Venue
Location: Melbourne, VIC
Position Type: Full-time (requires flexible hours, nights, and weekends)
Reports To: Venue Operations / General Manager
About Us
We are a premier, large-scale live music venue in Melbourne. Our space hosts a diverse calendar of events, including live bands, electronic music, live sets and large performances. We pride ourselves on delivering world-class live entertainment experiences for artists, promoters and patrons alike.
Position Overview
We are seeking a proactive, self-managed Production Manager to serve as the operational and technical backbone of our venue. You will manage all aspects of the venue’s production and show advancing requirements, overseeing each event to bring the creative vision of artists and promoters to the stage.
This is a freelance role that is flexible and self-managed, you will be balancing office-based administration (show advancing, crew rostering) with hands-on technical management (bump-ins, equipment maintenance, and occasional show operation). Initiative, proactive problem-solving, and strict safety vigilance are essential.
Key Responsibilities
Show Advancing & Coordination
- Liaise with Stakeholders: Act as the primary technical contact for promoters and touring agents during the lead-up to each event to ensure smooth operations.
- Technical Reviews: Review technical riders, staging requirements, and bump-in schedules.
- External Procurement: Source and arrange extra production equipment not available in-house.
Crew & Roster Management
- Tech Rostering: Schedule audio and lighting technicians well in advance for load-in, show execution, and load-out.
- Team Leadership: Manage on-site casual crews, ensuring professional standards and clear communication.
Technical Operations & Maintenance
- Asset Maintenance: Oversee regular maintenance and troubleshooting of all venue sound, lighting, and staging equipment.
- Compliance Checks: Review and oversee external production installations to ensure they are safe, structurally sound, and compliant.
Problem Solving & Compliance
- Technical Escalations: Serve as the primary decision-maker for on-site technical issues.
- Environmental Controls: Monitor and manage venue noise levels to comply with EPA Victoria and local council requirements.
- Rigging Oversight: Ensure all rigging installations comply with Australian standards and venue load limits.
Workplace Health & Safety (WHS)
- Safety Enforcement: Enforce Victorian OHS regulations and implement risk assessments/Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS).
- Incident Prevention: Maintain a safe environment for all crew, touring staff, and performers.
Ideal Candidate Profile
- Experience: 3+ years of experience in live sound operation, audio engineering, lighting, and stage management within large venues or touring environments.
- Qualifications:
- High-Risk Work Licence for Rigging (Basic/Intermediate RB/RI) is required.
- Technical Knowledge: Strong understanding of audio and lighting equipment, Australian standards for stage power distribution, temporary electrical installations and structures.
- Soft Skills: Exceptional conflict resolution, clear communication, and the ability to stay calm under high-pressure, fast-paced environment.
- Administration: Proficient basic computer skills for rostering software, emails, and advancing documentation.
- Flexibility: Complete availability to work non-traditional hours, including late nights, weekends, and public holidays aligned with event schedules.
Pay: $70,983.66 – $132,531.24 per year
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Melbourne VIC 3000
