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  • The Backstage
  • Concerts & Events
    • Calendar
    • Tickets
    • Ticketing Information >
      • Policies & FAQ's
      • Seating Chart
  • Plan Your Visit
    • Hotels & Lodging
    • Shuttle Service
    • Venue Guide
    • COVID-19 Safety Guidelines
  • Support
    • Volunteer
    • Donate Now
    • Levels of Giving >
      • Blue Canvas Club
      • KEEPERS
      • Heritage Society
    • Show Sponsorship
  • About
    • Locations & Directions
    • About Us
    • Employment
    • Contact Us
  • Tent Show Radio
  • Gift Shop
    • Gift Cards and Passes
    • CDs, DVDs, & Books
    • Apparel
    • Souvenirs
    • SALE!
  • The Backstage

EMPLOYMENT

Seasonal Employment

​Box office assisant
OVERVIEW
Box Office Assistants play an important role in the customer experience at the Box Office & Gift Shop location and The Backstage event center located in Bayfield. Under the supervision of the Box Office Manager, individuals in this role will be primarily responsible for selling tickets, providing excellent customer service, and serving as the first point of contact for patrons. Box Office staff work within a ticketing software program and perform credit card transactions and cash handling.

RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Assist patrons in the purchase of tickets over the phone and in person. 
  • Help patrons with the navigation of the website and the online ticket purchasing process. 
  • Assist patrons with Gift Shop retail sales while operating a POS system. 
  • Answer customer questions and concerns while providing superior customer service. 
  • Relay information about performances, events, and Big Top. 
  • Maintain Gift Shop inventory and tidiness. 
  • Filing, copying and other basic office duties. 
  • Additional duties as requested.
REQUIREMENTS
  • Knowledge of computers.
  • Previous cash handling experience.
  • Excellent customer service, communication, and problem solving skills.
  • Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Evening and weekend availability a plus. 
  • Prior relatable experience is a plus.
DATES & HOURS OF EMPLOYMENT
  • This is a seasonal position beginning as early as March or April and running through mid-September to early October. 
  • Weekly schedules typically range from 20-40 hours per week. 
  • Includes daytime, evenings, and weekends. 
  • Shifts for this position range from 4 to 8 hours. 
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
  • Hourly compensation dependent on experience and availability; $12-$15/hour. 
  • Season pass for 2.
  • Discounts on venue merchandise. 
  • Discounts at Mt. Ashwabay concessions. 

Candidates should send a resume and references to info@bigtop.org. Please include the position title in the subject line.
VENUE TICKET GATE ATTENDANT
OVERVIEW
Ticket Gate Attendants play an important role in the customer experience at the Big Top Chautauqua Tent venue located south of Bayfield. Under the supervision of the Box Office Manager, individuals in this role will be responsible for selling tickets, providing excellent customer service, and serving as the first point of contact for patrons. Ticket Gate staff work within a ticketing software program and perform credit card transactions and cash handling.

RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Sell tickets at the venue ticket gate. 
  • Answer customer questions and concerns while providing superior customer service. 
  • Relay information about performances, events, and Big Top. 
  • Balance end of day sale reports and handle cash flow. 
REQUIREMENTS
  • Knowledge of computers.
  • Previous cash handling experience.
  • Excellent customer service, communication, and problem solving skills.
  • Must be able to work in a fast paced environment.
  • Evening and weekend availability required. 
  • Prior relatable experience is a plus.
DATES & HOURS OF EMPLOYMENT
  • This is a seasonal position beginning as early as mid-May and running through mid-September to early October. 
  • Weekly schedules typically range from 20-40 hours per week. 
  • Includes evenings and weekends. 
  • Shifts for this position range from 4 to 8 hours. 
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
  • Hourly compensation dependent on experience and availability; $11-$13/hour. 
  • Season pass for 2.
  • Discounts on venue merchandise. 
  • Discounts at Mt. Ashwabay concessions. 

Candidates should send a resume and references to info@bigtop.org. Please include the position title in the subject line.
VENUE MERCHANDISE SELLER
OVERVIEW
Venue Merchandise Sellers are responsible for the point of sale in the venue where venue and artist merchandise is sold. Prior to each event you will be responsible for taking inventory and preparing displays. After the event, you will be responsible for closing operations which includes end of day financial reports. 

RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Ensure an excellent experience for each customer by providing prompt and thorough customer service. 
  • Act as the lead salesperson while supervising volunteer merchandise associates. 
  • Maintain accurate cash handling while processing purchases with a POS system.
  • Prepare displays prior to each event and tearing down displays after the event.
  • Maintain inventory by counting in all items before and after the event, track stock levels of apparel & gift items, and restocking venue merchandise as needed. 
  • Manage the sales process of guest artist’s merchandise during events. 
  • Communicate with guest artist merchandise management via email, phone, and in person as needed.
REQUIREMENTS
  • Previous cash handling experience.
  • Excellent communication skills.
  • Ability to stand for long periods of time. 
  • Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Must have evening and weekend availability. 
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. 
  • Prior relatable experience is a plus.
DATES & HOURS OF EMPLOYMENT
  • This position begins as early as mid-May and runs through mid-September to early October. 
  • Shifts for this position typically range from 3:30pm - closing, or 12:00pm - closing during matinee performances.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
  • Hourly compensation dependent on experience and availability; $13-$15/hour. 
  • Season pass for 2.​
  • Discounts on venue merchandise. 
  • Discounts at Mt. Ashwabay concessions. 

Candidates should send a resume and references to info@bigtop.org. Please include the position title in the subject line.​
LIGHTING DESIGNER
OVERVIEW
The Lighting Designer is responsible for assisting in the hang and strike of the house rep plot; tour load-ins and loadouts, programming shows and operating console for each show as needed. This position reports to the Production Manager and Technical Director. Qualified candidates will have demonstrated experience working with live music and theater production; however this is a good opportunity for a young LD to get professional experience in a supported environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Supervise all artistic decisions involving lighting. 
  • Maintain lighting equipment, spotlights, hazers, etc.
  • Maintain and update lighting cues in house show scripts; see that scripts are stored safely. 
  • Prepare for and participate in Blue Canvas Orchestra rehearsals according to schedule worked out with the Production Manager. 
  • Communicate with touring artists regarding show lighting needs. Be prepared to program looks, busk shows and call spot cues as needed. 
  • Assist stage crew in load-ins and load-outs of production equipment. 
  • Assist in production areas as needed including audio set up, video set up, stage set up, etc. 
  • Make arrangement for any needed equipment cleaning  in coordination with Technical Director
  • Alert Facilities Manager to any physical needs or safety concerns requiring maintenance including electrical or structural concerns backstage or in tent.  
  • Additional responsibilities as assigned. 
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience working with and programming/busking an LED moving light rig for bands, theatrical performances, comedians, etc. 
  • Experience programming an Avolite Titan console.
  • Experience climbing truss and being comfortable working at heights. 
DATES & HOURS OF EMPLOYMENT
  • June 1 - September 30  ( Some flexibility in schedule allowed )
  • Work may be 40+ hours per week and will require weekend and evening work. 
  • Shift lengths may vary depending on show needs.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
  • Contract pay of up to $11,250.00 depending on experience. 
  • Season Guest Pass for 2.
  • Discounts on venue merchandise. 
  • Discounts at Mt. Ashwabay concessions. 
  • Housing provided on venue grounds depending on availability. Employees are encouraged to have a personal vehicle as the venue is not accessible by public transportation.

Candidates should send a cover letter, resume, and 2 academic and/or professional references to Tracey Cook at stagemanager@bigtop.org. 
ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER
OVERVIEW
Spend your summer working under the stars with local, national and internationally touring musicians and artists. Under the direction of the Stage Manager and Technical Staff, the Assistant Stage Manager will interact with Big Top Staff,  touring personnel, artists, musicians, volunteers, and patrons. Qualified candidates will have demonstrated experience working with live music and theater production. 

RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Prepare tent, stage, backstage areas and dressing rooms to host productions for the season.
  • Load in Production Equipment at beginning of season.
  • Interact with touring personnel and assist in creating good communication between departments. 
  • Set stage as indicated by stage plot for each touring production.
  • Maintain scripts for all Blue Canvas Orchestra productions. 
  • Load in/load out touring production equipment per show.
  • Load in/load out Blue Canvas Orchestra per show.
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of stage/backstage areas at all times.
  • Assist in preparing event spaces for sponsor gatherings as needed.
  • Assistant Artist Assistant with Artist Hospitality set up as needed. 
  • Additional responsibilities as assigned.
REQUIREMENTS
  • A desire to produce high quality productions while enjoying your summer in beautiful surroundings. 
  • Punctuality and strong communication and organization skills. 
  • Be courteous, considerate and respectful of all artists.
  • Willingness to work in a fast paced environment and adapt to ever-changing conditions.
  • Offer a high level of assistance to artists/touring personnel while maintaining a professional and discreet attitude.
DATES & HOURS OF EMPLOYMENT
  • Position starts mid-June and runs until late September to early October. 
  • Positions are full time (40+ hours per week) unless arranged prior to start date.
  • Weekend and evening work required. 
  • Shift lengths may vary depending on show needs. 
  • Call times will vary; a new schedule will be provided each week.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
  • Contract pay of up to $6,250.00 depending on experience. 
  • Season Guest Pass for 2.
  • Discounts on venue merchandise. 
  • Discounts at Mt. Ashwabay concessions. 
  • Housing provided on venue grounds depending on availability. Employees are encouraged to have a personal vehicle as the venue is not accessible by public transportation.
​
Candidates should send a cover letter, resume, and 2 academic and/or professional references to Tracey Cook at stagemanager@bigtop.org ​. ​
TECHNICAL ASSISTANT
​OVERVIEW
Spend your summer working under the stars with local, national and internationally touring musicians and artists. Under the direction of the Stage Manager and Technical Staff, the Technical Assistant will interact with Big Top Staff, touring personnel, artists, musicians, volunteers and patrons. Qualified candidates will have demonstrated experience working with live music and theater production. 

RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Prepare tent venue, stage, backstage areas and dressing rooms to host productions for the season.
  • Load in Production Equipment at beginning of season. 
  • Set stage as indicated by stage plot for each production.
  • Load in/load out touring production equipment per show.
  • Load in/load out Blue Canvas Orchestra per show.
  • Set-up/focus lighting, program/run console under direction of Lighting Designer.
  • Run spot lights as needed.
  • Set-up mics, run cable, learn audio consoles, etc under direction of Audio Engineers.
  • Act as runner as needed by productions- employ safe driving techniques at all times.
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of stage/backstage areas at all times.
  • Prepare Event spaces for sponsor gatherings as needed.
  • Additional responsibilities as assigned. 
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • A desire to produce high quality productions while enjoying your summer in beautiful surroundings. 
  • Punctuality and strong communication skills. 
  • Be courteous, considerate and respectful of all artists.
  • Willingness to work in a fast paced environment and adapt to ever-changing conditions.
  • Offer a high level of assistance to artists/touring personnel while maintaining a professional and discreet attitude.
DATES & HOURS OF EMPLOYMENT
  • Position starts mid-June and runs until late September to early October. 
  • Positions are full time (40+ hours per week) unless arranged prior to start date.
  • Weekend and evening work required. 
  • Shift lengths may vary depending on show needs. 
  • Call times will vary; a new schedule will be provided each week.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
  • Contract pay of up to $6,250.00 depending on experience. 
  • Season Guest Pass for 2.
  • Discounts on venue merchandise. 
  • Discounts at Mt. Ashwabay concessions. 
  • Housing provided on venue grounds depending on availability. Employees are encouraged to have a personal vehicle as the venue is not accessible by public transportation.

Candidates should send a cover letter, resume, and 2 academic and/or professional references to Tracey Cook at stagemanager@bigtop.org.
ARTIST ASSISTANT
OVERVIEW
The Artist Assistant will work closely with the Production Manager to fulfill the hospitality needs of the Artists who perform on the Big Top stage. Discretion and professionalism are of utmost importance. This role interacts with touring personnel, artists, musicians, and Big Top board members, as well as local chefs and caterers who provide meals for performers. Qualified candidates will have experience in the hospitality industry, ie; food service, catering, hotel, etc. 

RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Create a warm, welcoming, clean environment to maximize Artists’ enjoyment of the Big Top experience. 
  • Organize and clean artist quarters prior to the season, during the season, and postseason. 
  • Regularly review hospitality supply inventories and replenish throughout the season as needed.
  • With assistance from the Production Manager, coordinate with contracted cleaning company to ensure cleanliness of hospitality quarters is maintained throughout the season.  
  • Review all hospitality elements of visiting artist contracts with the Production Manager. 
  • Work with the Production Manager and caterers to fulfill artist hospitality requests including on-site meals, after show meals, shopping needs, supply needs, and ensure any special dietary requirements are met. 
  • Conduct necessary shopping for each event, food preparation, and prepare displays around hospitality quarters. 
  • Assist the Production Manager on all hospitality needs including stocking ice, water, and beverages, picking up ordered foods, etc.
  • Track all expenses, log receipts, and assist the Production Manager in the preparation of hospitality reports for each performance.  
  • Alert Facilities Manager to any physical needs or safety concerns requiring maintenance including grounds and hospitality facilities so that it can be maintained/fixed in a safe and timely manner.
  • Additional responsibilities as assigned. 
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Genuine love of live music
  • Experience working in hospitality industry, ie; catering, fine dining, hotel is a plus
  • Ability to offer a high level of assistance to artists while maintaining a professional and discreet attitude 
  • Strong communication and organizational skills
  • Willingness to work in a fast paced environment and adapt to ever-changing conditions
  • Ability to lift +30 lbs and work long hours
  • Reliable personal vehicle is required as shopping is done each week for artist hospitality. (Mileage reimbursement outside of local area) 
DATES & HOURS OF EMPLOYMENT
  • June 1- September 30th
  • Hours will vary between 25-40 hours per week and will require weekend and evening work. 
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
  • Hourly compensation of $13-$15/hour dependent on experience and availability.
  • Season pass for 2.
  • Discounts on venue merchandise. 
  • Discounts at Mt. Ashwabay concessions. ​

Candidates should send a cover letter, resume, and 2 academic and/or professional references to Tracey Cook at stagemanager@bigtop.org ​

Full Time Employment

We have no open positions at this time. 
Picture
Year-Round Box Office & Gift Shop and
The Backstage (Event Center)
84810 State Hwy 13, Bayfield, WI 54814
​1-888-BIG-TENT

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