Application Instructions
Interested parties are requested to submit a cover letter, current resume, and the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of at least three professional references at the time of application.
This position will be posted until filled; however, review of applications will begin on 05/03/2026.
Search finalists are required to complete a CNU-sponsored background check.
Christopher Newport University (CNU) will make a reasonable effort to accommodate persons with disabilities in the application and/or interview process. Persons with disabilities who require accommodation should contact the CNU Human Resources Office by calling (757) 594-7145.
Position Information
Position Number: FA458
FLSA: Exempt
Appointment Type: Full Time
Sensitive Position: No
Campus Security Authority: Yes – the position is designated as a Campus Security Authority (CSA) and is responsible for reporting crimes to University Police immediately. CSA staff must complete annual training required by the Department of Education.
Posting Number: AP453P
Posting Date: 04/03/2026
Review Begin Date: 05/03/2026
Chief Objective of Position
Assists in providing administrative planning, budgeting, and supervisory direction for all production activities in the Ferguson Center for the Arts to ensure maximum use of facilities and safety of all involved. The assistant will also supervise and assist in allied activities connected with the operation of other facilities and events scheduled at the University as determined by the Administration.
Work Tasks
At the direction of the Production Manager, the Assistant schedules work calls, prepares estimates, procures equipment, schedules, executes, and fulfills production advance calls, manages and leads technical crews, functions as a crew member, serves as a stage manager calling shows, manages casts (sometimes fulfilling the responsibilities of both company manager and stage manager), and trains new crew members and students.
Develops and maintains very positive professional customer service and relations within the office/department and with all constituencies to include students, faculty, staff, guests, and employees.
Demonstrates a positive and professional attitude, treating everyone with dignity and respect. Fully supports the “Student’s First” value at CNU and routinely goes the extra mile in providing service.
Follows workplace safety regulations and adheres to applicable standards, processes, and programs established for the position. Promotes a safe and healthy work environment by ensuring implementation of safety regulations and applicable standards for employees under supervision.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
* Knowledge of standard theatrical tools, systems, and equipment, including lighting, sound, rigging, staging, and backstage operations.
* Knowledge of occupational hazards and accepted safety practices in a performing arts environment.
* Excellent written and oral communication skills.
* Ability to coordinate and execute all production elements for major professional touring attractions.
* Ability to support and assist the Production Manager in a high-volume, multi-event venue.
* Ability to function as a Stage Manager, including working with cast, crew, designers, and visiting artists.
* Ability to schedule and run rehearsals as assigned.
* Ability to call cues and manage live performances.
* Ability to maintain backstage order and enforce performance protocols.
* Ability to substitute into various positions on a traditional technical crew.
* Ability to act as both a crew leader and a crew member depending on production needs.
* Ability to supervise, mentor, or coordinate student workers, interns, and over-hire crew.
* Ability to assist with production scheduling, space management, and coordination of multiple events.
* Ability to assist with production timelines, load-ins, load-outs, and strike operations.
* Ability to work effectively with a wide range of individuals.
* Ability to establish priorities and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
* Ability to work productively as part of a team and independently with minimal supervision.
* Ability to learn and use production-related software applications as needed.
* Physical ability to work long hours as required.
* Physical ability to lift, stand, climb, and work in confined or elevated spaces.
* Ability to work highly irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, based on event schedules.
* Commitment to a collaborative, service-oriented production environment.
Required Education & Experience
Required Education: Master’s Degree or Bachelor’s degree with work experience that equates to an advanced degree.
Additional Consideration – Education: Master’s degree in Theatre or related field with an emphasis in technical theatre and/or stage management, or a Bachelor’s degree with significant work experience that equates to a Master’s degree is required.
Experience Required:
* Technical theatre or production experience in a multi-use performing arts facility.
* Experience in stage management for live performance, including rehearsals, technical rehearsals, and performances.
* Experience collaborating with artists, designers, production staff, and visiting technical personnel.
* Experience using personal computers, including word processing, spreadsheet, database, and production-related software applications.
* Experience in theatre operations, technical production, facility operations, and maintenance.
* Experience in stage management for live performance.
Additional Consideration – Experience: Management experience coordinating and supporting all technical aspects of productions in a complex, multiple-use environment; experience making critical operational decisions and solving problems in real time; demonstrated experience working with professional touring productions and presenting organizations; experience advancing productions and working from technical riders, schedules, and production documentation; experience supervising or coordinating technical staff, student workers, and/or over-hire crew; experience collaborating with artists, designers, production staff, and visiting technical personnel; theatre experience in a college/university setting.
Salary Information
Starting at $50,887, commensurate with education and experience.
Telework Eligibility
No
Posting Information
Posting Number: AP453P
Number of Vacancies: (not specified)
Posting Date: 04/03/2026
Review Begin Date: 05/03/2026
Required Documents
Required Documents:
* Resume
* Cover Letter
Optional Documents:
* Other Application Materials
* Other Application Materials #2
* Other Application Materials #3
* Other Application Materials #4
* Contact Information for at Least Three References
Contact Information
1 Avenue of the Arts
Newport News, VA 23606
P: (757) 594‑7000
F: (757) 594‑7230
hr@cnu.edu
Christopher Newport University is an EO Employer and is fully committed to access and opportunity.
Christopher Newport University (CNU) is anchored in excellence, reflected in its ranking as the #1 regional public university in Virginia and #3 among regional public universities in the South. It is an inclusive and kind community founded on shared values of honor, scholarship, service, and leadership. CNU offers an outstanding liberal arts education provided by dedicated, gifted teacher‑scholars who are supported by a compassionate team of faculty and staff. Its 4,500 undergraduate and graduate students pursue more than 90 areas of study, living and learning on a largely residential campus. The university’s performing and visual arts centers offer Broadway shows, world‑class performances, engaging exhibitions, transformative lectures and classes, and more. The athletics program is the winningest at any level in Virginia. CNU is located in the heart of Newport News, a vibrant city with breathtaking scenery and unique experiences. The region offers affordable neighborhoods, local and name‑brand shops, diverse dining options, local parks and water access, and fun recreational opportunities.
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