Front of House Associate

STEPPENWOLF THEATRE COMPANY

Now celebrating its 50th Anniversary Season, Steppenwolf Theatre Company has been a cultural leader in Chicago and model for theatre companies in the United States and around the world. Formed by a collective of actors in 1976, the ensemble represents a remarkable cross-section of actors, directors, playwrights and stage managers. Steppenwolf's artistic ambitions are made possible by its incredible workforce of individuals, who help create a culture of inclusivity, collaboration and accountability. To that end, we attempt to use an anti-oppressive and anti-racist lens in our roles and everyday decision-making. Join us in this ongoing process, as we navigate, together, our complex world.

Steppenwolf Theatre Company is seeking candidates for part-time Audience Experience Associate. Steppenwolf Audience Experience is dedicated to helping everyone who comes through our doors feel safe, relaxed and invited. Through presenting an intentional and sincere level of service and hospitality, members of this team are committed to cultivating a comfortable and respectful environment that upholds the dignity and experience of our audience, colleagues and guests. 

Areas of Responsibility: 

• Serves as the first point of contact and information for our audience, engaging them as a friendly, courteous, professional representative of the theatre
• Helps the House Manager monitor and maintain the lobby and theatre spaces (including the elevator lobby and restrooms) for safety, cleanliness, functionality and presentation 
• Assists patrons with accessibility requirements 
• Coordinates with the box office to resolve ticketing conflicts 
• Supervises the lobby and theatre spaces during performances, which includes the accommodation of patrons that have arrived late or left the theatre early for any reason 
• Serves as in-house supervision in the theater during performances 
• Communicates via radio with other staff members to convey patron issues and ensure smooth operations  
• Communicates facilities, patron and safety issues to House Manager for resolution and reporting 

Successful candidates will:

• Possess prior experience working in a high-volume customer service setting, preferably in a theater.  
• Fast, efficient service techniques in peak service times  
• A relaxed appearance and tone when interacting with guests and colleagues, which includes maintaining an unhurried pace and level modulation of voice and volume 
• Effective, improvisational problem solving in ever-changing situations 
• Strong time-management skills and the ability to work 15-25 hours a week 
• Consistent availability on evenings and weekends, as well as during holiday seasons 

Hours of Employment

Hours of employment are structured in consideration of performances, which are presented Tuesday through Saturday evenings, with matinees on Saturdays, Sundays and select Wednesdays. Extra shift availability is also occasionally available to support special events and extra programming on Monday evenings, weekdays, and weekend mornings.  

Compensation:

Hourly rate is $18.47 per hour. The Steppenwolf Theatre Audience Services & Experience is governed by a collective bargaining agreement with the IATSE Treasurers and Ticket Sellers Union Local 750. 

NO PHONE CALLS OR EMAILS PLEASE

About Steppenwolf:

Steppenwolf Theatre Company is the nation's premier Ensemble Theater with 49 members who are among the top actors, playwrights and directors in the field. Thrilling, powerful, groundbreaking productions — from Balm in Gilead and Grapes of Wrath to August: Osage County, Downstate and The Brother/Sister Plays — have made this theatre legendary. Founded in 1976, Steppenwolf started as a group of teens performing in the basement of a church. Today, the company's artistic force remains rooted in the original vision of its founders: an artist-driven theatre, whose vitality is defined by its appetite for bold and innovative work. Every aspect of Steppenwolf is rooted in its Ensemble ethos, from the intergenerational artistic programming to the multi-genre performance series LookOut, to the nationally recognized work of Steppenwolf Education and Engagement which serves nearly 15,000 teens annually. While grounded in the Chicago community, more than 40 original Steppenwolf productions have enjoyed success nationally and internationally, including Broadway, Off-Broadway, London, Sydney, Galway and Dublin. Steppenwolf also holds accolades that include the National Medal of Arts, 14 Tony Awards, two Pulitzer Prize-winning commissions and more. Led by Artistic Directors Glenn Davis and Audrey Francis, Executive Director Brooke Flanagan and Board of Trustees Chair, Keating Crown — Steppenwolf continually redefines the landscape of acting and performance.  

Steppenwolf Mission: 

Steppenwolf strives to create thrilling, courageous and provocative art in a thoughtful and inclusive environment. We succeed when we disrupt your routine with experiences that spark curiosity, empathy and joy. We invite you to join our ensemble as we navigate, together, our complex world. , ,  and  

Steppenwolf Core Values: 

Equity + Inclusion

Integrity + Curiosity

Courage + Collaboration

Accountability + Leadership

Steppenwolf Theatre Company is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. We provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Steppenwolf complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.