Manager – Education Programs

Manager – Education Programs

Job Summary
The Manager – Education Programs is a key leadership role responsible for the successful planning, coordination, and execution of the Palm Desert Choreography Festival (launched in 1998) and Open Call Talent Project (produced annually since 1999). This position serves as the central liaison between education and production, ensuring seamless communication and collaboration across all departments. The Manager also schedules and oversees artist residencies, masterclasses, and workshops at McCallum Theatre, in local schools, and community organizations. The ideal candidate is organized, detail-oriented, proactive, and passionate about the performing arts with a proven record in managing complex events and productions.

Essential Responsibilities
Program Management

Oversee the annual lifecycle of the Choreography Festival and Open Call Talent Project.
Develop and manage timelines, budgets, and deliverables.

Coordinate artist communications, contracts, schedules, and logistics.
Serve as the main point of contact for artists, choreographers, judges, partners, and volunteers.

Production Liaison

Work closely with the production stage manager to ensure high production standards.

Participate in production meetings and document decisions and schedules.
Coordinate project schedules with stage manager (tech and performance).

Cross-Departmental Collaboration

Serve as communication hub between education, production, marketing, and other departments.
Support marketing and outreach with accurate program information.
Assist with grant reporting and documentation.

Education Department Support

Manage artist contracts and departmental invoices.
Schedule and support artist residencies and workshops.
Assist the VP of Education and department staff with programs and projects.
Manage interns and volunteers as needed.

Minimum Requirements

3–5 years experience in program or production management.
Strong project management and organizational skills.
Flexible, responsive, and detail-oriented.
Excellent communication skills.
Experience working with artists and creative teams.
Proficient in Microsoft Office/Google Workspace and production tools.
Ability to work evenings/weekends as needed.
Valid California driver’s license and auto insurance.

Preferred Qualifications

Knowledge of dance, emerging artists, and community programs.
Bilingual (Spanish/English) a plus.

Work Authorization/Security Clearance

Must be eligible to work in the U.S.
Background check required.
Equal Opportunity Employer / Drug-Free Workplace.

Physical Requirements
Work Environment
This job operates in a professional, non-profit performing arts theatre and its surrounding grounds.

Physical Demands
Must have the ability to perform light to medium physical work, including lifting up to 10 pounds. Requires sitting, standing, bending, and reaching, and the ability to use a computer and communicate effectively in person and via phone.

EEO Statement
McCallum Theatre is an equal opportunity employer. We prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, genetics, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other protected status.

About the McCallum Theatre
McCallum Theatre is a non-profit performing arts center dedicated to world-class entertainment, education, and community engagement. Learn more here.

Palm Desert, California
Palm Desert is centrally located in the Coachella Valley with over 50,000 residents. Known for its cultural, retail, and educational institutions, it’s a growing community with a mix of seasonal and full-time residents. Just 15 miles from Palm Springs and 125 miles from Los Angeles.

Salary: $70,000, annually

Benefits: Competitive salary commensurate with experience.

Blue Shield Platinum Group Health Insurance, paid entirely by the Theatre. The cost of family coverage is additional.
Life Insurance – $25,000 coverage provided at no cost to employee.
Accidental Death/Dismemberment – provided at no cost to employee.
Short Term Disability – provided at no cost to employee.
Delta Dental Insurance – provided at no cost to employee. Dependent coverage is additional.
VSP (Vision Service Plan) – provided at no cost to employee. Dependent coverage is additional.
Long Term Disability – provided at no cost to employee.
401(K) with 5% company match.
Section 125 – Flexible Spending Account.
Paid time off and holidays.

Education requirements: Bachelor’s Degree

Deadline to apply: August 9, 2025

Documents required to apply: Resume, cover letter

How to apply: Please submit a resume and brief cover letter to Human Resources at hr@mccallum-theatre.org with the subject line: Manager – Education Programs – [Your Name].