TN Visa Stage Manager Jobs
Stage Manager roles qualify for TN visa sponsorship under USMCA when the position requires coordinating professional theatrical, film, or live event productions. Canadian citizens can present required documentation at the U.S. border; Mexican citizens apply at a U.S. consulate. Your employer prepares a support letter demonstrating the role's requirements and your qualifications, which you present as part of your TN application.
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Working Title Assistant Production Manager/Stage Manager
Position Number FA458
FLSA Exempt
Appointment Type Full Time
Sensitive Position No
Campus Security Authority Yes
This position is designated as a Campus Security Authority. A Campus Security Authority (or CSA) is defined as an “official of the institution with significant responsibility for student and campus activities”. A CSA is required to immediately report any crime that is reported to them to the University Police who will then review, evaluate, and investigate the reported crime. Annual training is required by the Department of Education for all personnel who have been designated as a Campus Security Authority.
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 facility and ensure safety of all involved. Will be called on to supervise and assist in other allied activities connected with the operation of the other facilities and events scheduled at the University as determined by the Administration.
Work Tasks
At the direction of the Production Manager, the Assistant will schedule work calls, prepare estimates, procure equipment, schedule, execute and fulfill production advance calls, manage and lead technical crews, function as a crew member, serve as a stage manager calling shows, managing casts - sometimes fulfilling the responsibilities of both company manager and stage manager, train new crew members and students.
Develop and maintain very positive and professional customer service and/or relations within the office/department and with all constituencies to include students, faculty, staff, guests, and employees. Demonstrate a positive and professional attitude and treat everyone with dignity and respect. Fully support the “Student’s First” value at CNU and routinely goes the extra mile in providing service.
Follow workplace safety regulations and adhere to applicable standards, processes, and programs established for your position. Promote a safe and healthy work environment by ensuring the implementation of safety regulations and applicable standards, processes, and programs established for employees under your supervision.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities (KSA's) related to position
- 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.
- Strong interpersonal skills. Results-focused. Strong organizational skills.
- Ability to assist in the coordination and execution of 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 function 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
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.
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.
CNU Information
Christopher Newport University is anchored in excellence, and that is reflected in our ranking as the #1 regional public university in Virginia and #3 among regional public universities in the South. We are an inclusive and kind community, founded on our shared values of honor, scholarship, service and leadership. We offer an outstanding liberal arts education provided by dedicated, gifted teacher-scholars who are supported by a compassionate team of faculty and staff. Our 4,500 undergraduate and graduate students pursue more than 90 areas of study, as they live and learn on a largely residential campus. CNU’s on-campus performing and visual arts centers offer Broadway shows, world-class performances, engaging exhibitions, transformative lectures and classes, and more. Our athletics program is the winningest at any level in Virginia.
Christopher Newport University is in the heart of Newport News, a vibrant city with breathtaking scenery and unique experiences. The city and region offer affordable neighborhoods, local and name-brand shops, diverse dining options, local parks and water access, and fun recreational opportunities. Whatever your interests and goals, you belong at CNU! For further details and information about Christopher Newport, visit cnu.edu.
Is this position telework eligible? No
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.
EEO/Diversity Statement(s)
Christopher Newport University, an EO Employer, is fully Committed to Access and Opportunity.
Notice of Non-Discrimination & Title IX Policy Statement
Position Information
Working Title Assistant Production Manager/Stage Manager
Position Number FA458
FLSA Exempt
Appointment Type Full Time
Sensitive Position No
Campus Security Authority Yes
This position is designated as a Campus Security Authority. A Campus Security Authority (or CSA) is defined as an “official of the institution with significant responsibility for student and campus activities”. A CSA is required to immediately report any crime that is reported to them to the University Police who will then review, evaluate, and investigate the reported crime. Annual training is required by the Department of Education for all personnel who have been designated as a Campus Security Authority.
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 facility and ensure safety of all involved. Will be called on to supervise and assist in other allied activities connected with the operation of the other facilities and events scheduled at the University as determined by the Administration.
Work Tasks
At the direction of the Production Manager, the Assistant will schedule work calls, prepare estimates, procure equipment, schedule, execute and fulfill production advance calls, manage and lead technical crews, function as a crew member, serve as a stage manager calling shows, managing casts - sometimes fulfilling the responsibilities of both company manager and stage manager, train new crew members and students.
Develop and maintain very positive and professional customer service and/or relations within the office/department and with all constituencies to include students, faculty, staff, guests, and employees. Demonstrate a positive and professional attitude and treat everyone with dignity and respect. Fully support the “Student’s First” value at CNU and routinely goes the extra mile in providing service.
Follow workplace safety regulations and adhere to applicable standards, processes, and programs established for your position. Promote a safe and healthy work environment by ensuring the implementation of safety regulations and applicable standards, processes, and programs established for employees under your supervision.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities (KSA's) related to position
- 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.
- Strong interpersonal skills. Results-focused. Strong organizational skills.
- Ability to assist in the coordination and execution of 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 function 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
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.
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.
CNU Information
Christopher Newport University is anchored in excellence, and that is reflected in our ranking as the #1 regional public university in Virginia and #3 among regional public universities in the South. We are an inclusive and kind community, founded on our shared values of honor, scholarship, service and leadership. We offer an outstanding liberal arts education provided by dedicated, gifted teacher-scholars who are supported by a compassionate team of faculty and staff. Our 4,500 undergraduate and graduate students pursue more than 90 areas of study, as they live and learn on a largely residential campus. CNU’s on-campus performing and visual arts centers offer Broadway shows, world-class performances, engaging exhibitions, transformative lectures and classes, and more. Our athletics program is the winningest at any level in Virginia.
Christopher Newport University is in the heart of Newport News, a vibrant city with breathtaking scenery and unique experiences. The city and region offer affordable neighborhoods, local and name-brand shops, diverse dining options, local parks and water access, and fun recreational opportunities. Whatever your interests and goals, you belong at CNU! For further details and information about Christopher Newport, visit cnu.edu.
Is this position telework eligible? No
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.
EEO/Diversity Statement(s)
Christopher Newport University, an EO Employer, is fully Committed to Access and Opportunity.
Notice of Non-Discrimination & Title IX Policy Statement
See all 474+ Stage Manager jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding TN Visa Sponsorship as a Stage Manager
Document your production coordination credentials early
TN officers expect proof that Stage Manager duties require a professional-level skill set. Gather contracts, production programs, and employer letters that detail your specific coordination responsibilities, not just your job title.
Target employers with live production infrastructure
Broadway houses, regional repertory theaters, major concert promoters, and film studios have HR teams familiar with TN sponsorship. Mid-size touring companies often lack that infrastructure, so qualify the employer before investing time in an application.
Get your support letter to describe specialty functions
Your employer's support letter must explain why the Stage Manager role requires specialized expertise beyond general production assistance. Officers scrutinize vague letters, so ask HR to specify crew coordination, cue-calling, union compliance oversight, and rehearsal scheduling duties.
Search Migrate Mate to find TN-ready Stage Manager openings
Filter by TN visa eligibility on Migrate Mate to identify Stage Manager roles posted by employers already familiar with sponsorship requirements. This cuts time spent qualifying employers who have never navigated TN filings.
Confirm union affiliation compatibility before accepting an offer
Many U.S. stage management roles require IATSE or Actors' Equity membership. Employers cannot always sponsor a TN holder who lacks U.S. union standing, so clarify membership requirements during negotiation before the offer is finalized.
Stage Manager jobs are hiring across the US. Find yours.
Find Stage Manager JobsStage Manager TN Visa: Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Stage Manager role qualify for TN visa status?
Stage Manager positions can qualify under the TN visa category when the role involves coordinating professional productions and requires specialized expertise. The key is demonstrating that the job functions go beyond general event assistance. A detailed employer support letter outlining responsibilities like cue-calling, union compliance, and crew coordination strengthens the case significantly at the port of entry or consulate.
How does TN visa sponsorship compare to H-1B for Stage Managers?
TN visa sponsorship is faster and more predictable for Stage Managers than H-1B. There is no annual lottery, no cap for Canadians, and approval can happen at the border for Canadian citizens on the same day as application. H-1B requires entering a lottery with roughly one-in-three odds, waiting up to a year for a start date, and paying significantly higher filing fees. For a role that may not fit neatly into H-1B specialty occupation criteria, TN is often the more practical route.
What documents does a Stage Manager need for TN sponsorship?
You'll need a detailed employer support letter describing your specific Stage Manager duties, evidence of your professional credentials such as a relevant degree or documented work history in production coordination, a valid Canadian or Mexican passport, and a job offer specifying your title and compensation. If your background is experiential rather than degree-based, compile production credits, union cards, and reference letters that demonstrate your specialized expertise.
Where can I find Stage Manager jobs that offer TN visa sponsorship?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for Canadian and Mexican professionals seeking TN-eligible roles in the United States. You can filter Stage Manager listings by TN visa compatibility, which identifies employers already prepared to support sponsorship rather than those who may be unfamiliar with the process. This is especially useful given that many entertainment employers have not previously sponsored international production staff.
Can a Stage Manager on TN status change employers mid-year?
Yes, TN status is employer-specific, so switching productions or employers requires a new TN application tied to the new employer. Canadian citizens can typically apply at a U.S. port of entry for same-day approval when changing employers. Mexican citizens must apply through a U.S. consulate, which takes longer. You can begin work with a new employer once the new TN is approved, not at the point of application.
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