Production Assistant (Spring 2026

Organization

Chicago Humanities connects people to the ideas that shape and define us and promotes the lifelong exploration of what it means to be human. Chicago Humanities fosters curiosity, celebrates creativity, explores the boundaries of contemporary knowledge and culture, and challenges us to see ourselves and the world anew. Collaborating with nearly 40 of Chicago’s major cultural and educational institutions, Chicago Humanities produces over 100 events annually and partners with nearly 40 venues around Chicago, as well as stewards a vibrant online home for the humanities. Chicago Humanities has an international reputation for innovation and creativity, featuring an exceptional roster of writers, scholars, performers, and visual artists in its programs and online.

Position Description

The Chicago Humanities Production Department seeks an experienced and enthusiastic Production Assistant. Candidates should have some production experience and be eager to participate and support the inner workings of a festival producing over 40 public programs at venues all over the city of Chicago. This part-time seasonal role will require an average of 20 hours a week for 8 weeks (with a mix of in office, and event hours), starting in April 2026 and ending no sooner than May 31st. Specifics of this position’s scheduling may be worked out with the Event Technology Manager.

Qualified candidates should have some previous production or large scale event experience and enjoy complex multi-layered projects. A firm understanding of QLab 5 (audio and video), basic live audio workflow, the Google Workspace, and Zoom. Ideal candidates must exemplify a close attention to detail, strong self motivation, and willingness to learn. Experience with AirTable, Slack, Asana, or other project management/database tools is a plus.

Position Responsibilities:

Event Production & On-Site Support

• Provide on-site production support for Festival programs, working with stage managers, A/V technicians, and contractors, including post-event wrap-up.
• Pack, transport, and maintain production equipment and materials.
• Assist the Event Technology Manager with media preparation and playback setup.

Production Planning & Documentation

• Prepare and distribute production materials (tech sheets, schedules, run-of-show documents, venue packets) for seasonal production staff.
• Conduct venue site visits to gather technical specifications, photos, and operational details for internal planning.

Administration & Quality Control

• Perform quality assurance on event media and production paperwork.
• Maintain production inventory and contribute to the Festival archive database.
• Provide administrative support, including meeting agendas, note-taking, and cross-department communication.

Compensation and Hours

• This is a part-time position paid at a rate of $25/hour for roughly 20 hours a week. Standardized raises are provided for PA’s who are invited back and return for future seasons. Employees are paid bi-weekly based on hours worked.
• This role is seasonal, supporting our Spring season running approximately from April through the end of May. PA’s may be invited to return for our Fall season beginning in September – November, pending performance and organizational need.
• This position will require week day hours as well as evening and weekend hours for events.
• Our festival days known as “Hub days” will take place on April 18, May 9 and May 17. Availability for most of these dates is strongly preferred. Please let us know any dates you will not be available.

Work Location
As is true of our entire staff, weekday hours will be hybrid with remote “at-home” work and in-person work at our River North office. While working remotely, you will have access to a Chicago Humanities laptop and a $50 per month stipend to offset home internet and personal phone expenses. Chicago Humanities events are held at venues throughout Chicagoland. Travel stipend/reimbursement for mileage, parking, and/or rideshare is available for pre-event site visits and scheduled shifts on event days.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion

Chicago Humanities is committed to providing a diverse, equitable, accessible, and inclusive workplace, where all employees and volunteers, whatever their gender, race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, age, sexual orientation or identity, education or disability, feel valued and respected. We are committed to a nondiscriminatory approach and provide equal opportunity for employment and advancement in all our departments, programs, and policies. We respect and value diverse life experiences and heritages and ensure that all voices are valued and heard.

TO APPLY:  

Please submit your application here, including resume, cover letter, and two references. Applications are due Friday, March 20, 2026.

If you need any accommodations completing this application, please email our Associate Director of People and Culture, John Rooney at jrooney@chicagohumanities.org.

Candidates who are selected for an interview will be notified via email. We look forward to reviewing your materials. Thank you!