Shop Manager

We recognize that diverse teams make the strongest teams and encourage people from all backgrounds to apply.

“Shop Manager”

EMPLOYMENT TERM: Full Time, Hourly, 35-40 hours per week.

Mesner Puppet Theater is seeking a detail oriented and skilled craftsperson to fulfill the duties of “Shop Manager”. Our mission is to inspire play and cultivate connections through puppetry. The “Shop Manager” will support this mission by collaborating with the Director of Puppetry Arts on the creative process and overseeing the day to day operations of our workshop that produces puppets for touring shows, and education programs, and custom puppets.

REPORTS TO:

Director of Puppetry Arts

SUPPORTS:

Professional Services, Production, Education, and Puppets in Progress departments

DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

Interpret designs

Collaborates in the creative process with openness, flexibility, and an eye towards quality

Construct puppets of varying styles

Manages material and overhire budgets

Manage puppet/scenic element build schedules

Source and/or order materials

Facilitate repairs/maintenance on puppets and equipment

Maintain shop ensuring it is organized and safe

Lead contracting of overhires and approval of invoices

Prepare and facilitate daily tasks for overhires, support staff, and/or interns

Teach interns techniques

Ensure working spaces are clean, safe, and adequate for build needs

Ensure notes from clients and directors are completed in a timely manner

Communicate upcoming project needs and current obstacles to supervisor

Assist in organizing and loading shows for tours

Attend meetings

Respond to email

Other duties as assigned that support the mission of Mesner Puppet Theater.

KEY SKILLS:

Ability to work in a variety of mediums (foam/fabric/wood/plastics/metal)

Patterning and draping

Mechanism design/construction

Molding and casting

Fabric dying

Confident in using and repairing sewing and shop equipment

Ability to interpret designs moving them from 2D to 3D

Excited about systems and processes that will assist with organizing shop and workflow

Teaching others technical skills

Self starter, able to learn new techniques through their own research

Strong written and verbal communication

Knowledge of Google Suite (Drive, Sheets, Forms, Docs)

PREFERRED SKILLS:

Familiarity with marionette construction

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

3+ years of fabrication experience in puppetry or closely related field

Proven history of successful project management in the arts

PREFERRED INTERPERSONAL QUALITIES:

Compassionate

Sense of humor

Interested in supporting the creation of an inclusive working environment

Natural problem solver

Passion for supporting programs for all, specifically, young people.

PAY AND BENEFITS

Starting Rate: $18.50 an hour (commensurate with experience)
Simple IRA - match up to 3% of employee contribution
Health Reimbursement Agreement (HRA) - $400 per month for qualifying medical expenses.
Paid vacation, personal days and holidays.

HOURS:

Primarily M-F, 35-40 hours per week.

LOCATION:

300 E 39th. St. Kansas City, MO 64111

DESIRED START:

May 2022

HOW TO APPLY:

Email resume, brief cover letter, and work sample images to mike@mesnerpuppets.org and meghann@mesnerpuppets.org. Interviews will be held by appointment until position is filled.

Learn more about company at www.mesnerpuppets.org