Current Job Searches

Unlock Creative offers job search services primarily to creative businesses, artists, and nonprofit organizations.

We offer management of human-centered transitions including job search, recruitment, and placement. Our signature searches include the Welcome with Care and the Full Circle Beloved transition. We work with staff and the Board of Directors to execute searches that honor the values of the organization. We produce candidate pools that are reflective of the host organization’s community and our national network of black creatives.  Listings will be updated periodically when available.

The Era Footwork Collective

The Era Footwork Enterprise, the driving force behind the Era Footwork Crew, is expanding its team in Chicago! We're looking for passionate, dedicated individuals to join us in supporting the Crew's artistic vision and community impact.

The Era Footwork Crew are pioneers of the battle dance known as Chicago footwork. Since 2014, they have expanded the definition of a dance crew, addressing inequality and racism through their lyrics and panel discussions and supporting women and girls in the history of footwork through collaboration and documentation.  We are curating our team to help the Era Footwork Collective go to the next level under the leadership of Co- CEOs Jamal “Litebulb” Oliver and Brandon “Chief Manny” Calhoun.  Linked is the full job descriptions for all open positions word document and pdf.

OPEN STAFF POSITIONS

Managing Director

OPEN CONTRACT PRODUCTION POSITIONS

Production Manager

Production Manager Fellow

Stage Manager

Why Join The Era Enterprise?

  • Be part of a vibrant, creative community dedicated to promoting footwork culture.

  • Work alongside talented dancers and artists.

  • Contribute to the Crew's positive impact on the Chicago community.

  • Competitive compensation and opportunities for growth.

Linked is the full job descriptions for all open positions word document and pdf.

POSITION TITLE:  Managing Director

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Part-Time to Full-time, W-2 status, salaried, varied-schedule

DESIRED START DATE: December 1, 2024 - January 1, 2025

COMPENSATION: Based on experience and part-time to full time status (position is funded by multi-year grant support).  

SCHEDULE: Primary administrative weekly schedule M-F. Nights, Weekends and travel will be required for shows, productions, special in-person events, virtual programming.

REPORTS TO: Co- CEOs

BENEFITS: Paid holidays, paid time off + wellness and sick time

LOCATION & OFFICE: Remote, Global Impact, Based in Chicago, IL preferred

Overview:

The Managing Director is a pivotal leadership role at Era Footwork Enterprise Inc, working in close partnership with the Co-CEOs to ensure the organization's success in fulfilling its mission, strategic goals, and financial sustainability. This position is responsible for the day-to-day management of the organization and reports directly to the Co-CEOs.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Business/Operational Guidance:

    • Oversee day-to-day operations, ensuring smooth and efficient workflows

    • Manage internal communications to foster collaboration and transparency

    • Develop and execute marketing strategies to promote the organization's programs and events

    • Manage touring/booking logistics for artistic programs

    • Oversee the development of artistic content and structure for specific programs

    • Handle public relations efforts to build and maintain a positive image

    • Develop and manage merchandise and art development initiatives

  • Financial Management & Oversight:

    • Monitor and develop tracking systems for financials, including income, expenses, and documentation.

    • Develop a support team, including legal counsel, accountant/bookkeeper, documentation team, and fiscal sponsor to strengthen the business infrastructure

  • Strategic Planning:

    • Collaborate with the Co-CEOs and Board of Directors to develop long-term strategic plans.

    • Ensure progress towards mission-related goals through ongoing strategic planning and implementation.

  • Additional Responsibilities:

    • Contribute to the growth and development of the organization.

    • Strengthen administrative infrastructure, including financial management and logistics.

    • Ensure compliance with relevant regulations.

    • Oversee recruitment, hiring, and onboarding of staff and volunteers.

    • Ensure effective performance management and development.

    • Maintain a positive and inclusive work environment.

    • Keep the Board informed about the organization's progress and challenges.

    • Build relationships with community groups and organizations.

    • Represent the organization to external stakeholders.

Qualifications:

  • Transparent and high-integrity leadership

  • Strong budget management and financial acumen

  • Excellent organizational and planning abilities

  • Ability to communicate a vision and motivate others

  • Knowledge of fundraising and donor relations

  • Excellent written and oral communication skills

  • Ability to work with diverse groups

  • Experience in marketing, public relations, and/or artistic program management

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with capital campaigns and building projects.

  • Familiarity with the Chicago community.

  • Chicago based 

Note:

  • While not all qualifications may be met by a single candidate, we seek individuals eager to learn and grow professionally.

Era Footwork Enterprise Inc. is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.   Linked is the full job descriptions for all open positions word document and pdf.

POSITION TITLE:  Production Manager Graduate Fellow

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: 1099 Contractor

DESIRED START DATE: December 1, 2024 - January 1, 2025

COMPENSATION: Negotiated per production  

SCHEDULE: Nights, Weekends and travel will be required for shows, productions, special in-person events, virtual programming.

REPORTS TO: Co- CEO- Artistic

LOCATION & OFFICE: Remote, Global Impact, Based in Chicago, IL preferred - must be on the ground for production load ins/ out and venue scouting.

Production Manager Graduate Fellow

Overview:

A recent graduate with a strong academic background in production management or a related field who is eager to gain practical experience in the industry. The Fellow will work closely with experienced production managers, learning the ropes of production planning, scheduling, and execution. They will also be involved in various projects aimed at improving production efficiency and quality.

Key Responsibilities

  • Assist in the development and implementation of production plans, ensuring timely and cost-effective production.

  • Monitor production progress, identifying and addressing potential issues proactively.

  • Collect and analyze production data, preparing reports on key performance indicators.

  • Maintain Detailed Production Schedule:

    • Includes rehearsals, tech rehearsals, dress rehearsals, and performances.

    • Clearly outlines call times for dancers, crew, and creative team.

    • Accounts for any specific needs related to costumes, set changes, or technical elements.

  • Manage Day-to-Day Itemized Budget:

    • Provides a clear breakdown of all production costs.

    • Includes line items for:

      • Venue rental

      • Technical equipment (lighting, sound, etc.)

      • Costumes and props

      • Salaries and fees for dancers, choreographers, and crew

      • Marketing and publicity expenses

      • Contingency fund for unexpected costs

  • On the Ground Management of Load-in and Tech Rehearsal Plan:

    • Details the process and schedule for loading in sets, costumes, props, and technical equipment into the performance venue.

    • Specifies the schedule for technical rehearsals, including lighting, sound, and any special effects.

  • Coordination with all Departments:

    • Establishes and maintain clear communication channels with:

      • Choreographer/Artistic Director

      • Lighting Designer

      • Sound Designer

      • Costume Designer

      • Stage Manager

      • Any other relevant departments

  • Smooth Execution of Performances:

    • Ensures all technical and logistical aspects of the performances run seamlessly.

Additional Considerations

  • Dancer Needs:

    • Allocate rehearsal space and time appropriately.

    • Ensure adequate dressing room and warm-up areas are available.

    • Consider any specific physical therapy or injury prevention needs.

  • Technical Requirements:

    • Work closely with the technical team to ensure the lighting, sound, and any special effects enhance the choreography and artistic vision.

    • Coordinate with the stage manager any complex technical cues or transitions.

  • Costume and Prop Management:

    • Establish a system for organizing and maintaining costumes and props throughout the production.

    • Ensure quick changes can be executed smoothly backstage.

Linked is the full job descriptions for all open positions word document and pdf.

POSITION TITLE:  Production Manager

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: 1099 Contractor

DESIRED START DATE: December 1, 2024 - January 1, 2025

COMPENSATION: Negotiated per production  

SCHEDULE: Nights, Weekends and travel will be required for shows, productions, special in-person events, virtual programming.

REPORTS TO: Co- CEO- Artistic

LOCATION & OFFICE: Remote, Global Impact, Based in Chicago, IL preferred - must be on the ground for production load ins/ out and venue scouting.

Overview:

The Production Manager oversees all the logistical and technical aspects of a dance performance, ensuring the smooth execution of the artistic vision within the constraints of budget and venue. They are the glue that holds the production together, coordinating everything behind the scenes.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Planning & Budgeting:

    • Develops and manages the production budget, tracking expenses and ensuring cost-effectiveness.

    • Creates and maintains detailed production schedules, coordinating rehearsals, technical rehearsals, and performances.

    • Sources and secures necessary resources, including venues, equipment, and personnel.

  • Technical Management:

    • Collaborates with the choreographer and designers to realize the technical aspects of the production, including set, lighting, sound, and costumes.

    • Oversees the technical setup and operation of the performance space.

    • Liaises with venue staff and technical crews to ensure all technical requirements are met.

  • Personnel Management:

    • Hires and manages production staff and crew, including stage managers, technicians, and dressers.

    • Oversees the creation and distribution of contracts and schedules for all personnel.

  • Logistics & Operations:

    • Manages the transportation and storage of sets, costumes, and equipment.

    • Coordinates travel and accommodation for the dance company and crew.

    • Ensures compliance with health and safety regulations.

  • Communication & Collaboration:

    • Acts as the central point of contact for all production-related matters.

    • Facilitates clear and effective communication between the artistic team, technical crew, and venue staff.

Essential Skills:

  • Strong organizational and time management skills

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

  • Budget management and negotiation skills

  • Technical knowledge of stagecraft and production processes

  • Problem-solving and decision-making abilities

  • Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines

Linked is the full job descriptions for all open positions word document and pdf.

POSITION TITLE:  Stage Manager

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: 1099 Contractor

DESIRED START DATE: December 1, 2024 - January 1, 2025

COMPENSATION: Negotiated per production  

SCHEDULE: Nights, Weekends and travel will be required for shows, productions, special in-person events, virtual programming.

REPORTS TO: Co- CEO- Artistic

LOCATION & OFFICE: Remote, Global Impact, Based in Chicago, IL preferred - must be on the ground for production load ins/ out and venue scouting

The stage manager for a theatrical dance production is a critical member of the team, acting as the central hub for communication and organization. Their role encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, from pre-production planning to performance executioction.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Pre-Production:

    • Collaborate with the choreographer, artistic director, and designers to understand the creative vision and technical needs of the production.

    • Create and maintain detailed schedules for rehearsals, technical rehearsals, and performances.

    • Manage the rehearsal space, ensuring it is properly equipped and organized.

    • Assist with casting and auditions.

    • Oversee the creation and distribution of rehearsal materials, including scripts, scores, and choreography notes.

  • Rehearsals:

    • Attend all rehearsals to track blocking, choreography changes, and directorial notes.

    • Record and distribute rehearsal reports to the creative team and crew.

    • Manage any necessary changes to the schedule or rehearsal plan.

    • Ensure the dancers have the resources they need for productive rehearsals.

  • Technical Rehearsals:

    • Oversee the integration of technical elements, such as lighting, sound, and set pieces, into the production.

    • Work closely with the technical director and crew to ensure all cues are properly timed and executed.

    • Troubleshoot any technical issues that arise.

  • Performances:

    • "Call" the show, providing cues to the technical crew for lighting, sound, and set changes.

    • Maintain order backstage and ensure the dancers are prepared for their entrances.

    • Address any unexpected issues that arise during the performance.

    • Oversee the strike (dismantling) of the set and props after the final performance.

Skills and Qualities:

  • Excellent organizational and time management skills

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills

  • Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines

  • Attention to detail

  • Knowledge of stagecraft and theatrical production processes

  • Passion for dance and the performing arts

The stage manager plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth and successful execution of a dance production. Their ability to manage logistics, communicate effectively, and maintain a calm and focused demeanor is essential for bringing the choreographer's vision to life. Linked is the full job descriptions for all open positions word document and pdf.

Past Searches

Unlock Creative offers job search services primarily to creative businesses, artists, and nonprofit organizations.

We offer management of human-centered transitions including job search, recruitment, and placement. Our signature searches include the Welcome with Care and the Full Circle Beloved transition. We work with staff and the Board of Directors to execute searches that honor the values of the organization. We produce candidate pools that are reflective of the host organization’s community and our national network of black creatives.   

Selected Past Searches

Artists Communities Alliance - Managing Director of External Affairs

DNAWORKS - Executive Director

Dancing Grounds - Executive Director

Historic Clayborn Temple -Deputy Director, Project Manager, Development Associate, Administrative Assistant

Arts Foundation of Tucson and Southern Arizona -Community Design Manager, Public Art Associate

Big We Foundation -Managing Director

The BIG We LLC - Creative Producer

Project South - Operations Manager