Front of House Manager (PT)
- Chicago, IL
- $19.00-21.00 per hour
- Permanent
- Part-time
- Collaborate with management to implement Front of House policies and standard operating procedures
- Serve as day-of lead for public and private events, ensuring the lobby, theatre(s), restrooms, and other public spaces are clean, welcoming, and guest-focussed.
- Open and close multiple venue spaces as scheduled.
- Lead pre-show FOH staff meetings to review event details, safety protocols, and logistical assignments.
- Support client tours and event walkthroughs as needed.
- Coordinate with full-time FOH Manager to execute ADA accommodations and guest services with care and detail.
- Ensure signage, furniture, playlists, and wayfinding materials are correctly placed and maintained.
- Monitor event flow and support guest-facing areas including lobbies, entrances, and restrooms.
- Ensure FOH event notes are captured in a post-show report at the end of each shift.
- Conduct a pre-show briefing with ushers and volunteers (safety, procedures, special needs, etc.).
- Supervise ushers, floor captains, bartenders, and volunteers during events.
- Verify attendance and readiness of FOH staff and volunteers.
- Provide backup for understaffed roles, such as ushering or concessions, when necessary.
- Support training of new volunteers and staff in event flow and customer service expectations.
- Greet patrons and ensure a positive customer experience.
- Address late seating, accessibility needs, or special accommodations.
- Handle customer complaints or issues in a professional and timely manner.
- Monitor crowd flow and help minimize wait times at entry points and concessions.
- Coordinate with the box office and confirm ticketing setup and audience numbers, and scanning devices
- Monitor audience behavior (use of phones, disturbances, etc.).
- Remain available to assist staff or patrons discreetly during the show.
- Oversee audience exit and ensure areas are left in good condition.
- Collect lost-and-found items and secure them properly.
- Debrief with staff/ushers; log any incidents or maintenance needs.
- Lock up and secure front-of-house areas as required.
- Assist with special events, receptions, or post-show discussions.
- Other related duties as needed.
- Be the primary point of contact for front-of-house emergencies (medical, fire alarm, evacuation).
- Maintain clear communication with backstage, technical crew, and security.
- Ensure exits are clear and accessible throughout the performance.
- Know and execute the theatre's emergency and first aid protocols.
- A warm, outgoing, and friendly personality is essential—must genuinely enjoy making every guest feel welcomed and valued.
- Must embody a spirit of hospitality while having the confidence and discernment to enforce policies with firmness and grace when needed.
- Strong leadership instincts and the ability to stay calm, clear-headed, and supportive during high-pressure or fast-moving events.
- Prior experience in house management, stage management, live events, hospitality, or guest services strongly preferred.
- Excellent communication skills with both patrons and team members.
- Familiarity with ADA compliance, emergency response, and safety best practices is a plus.
- Availability to work evenings, weekends, and occasional late nights is required.
- This position reports to the House Manager and/or Audience Services Manager
- This position’s direct reports (day of) are:
- Front of House Associate
- Bartender
- Ushers
- The position often interacts and collaborates with the Box Office Staff, Event Manager, Venue Technical Supervisor, and General Manager.
- Pay Rate/Range: $19.00–$21.00 Per Hour, depending on experience.
- 20-30 Hours Per Week