What are the responsibilities and job description for the House Manager position at Thalia Hall?
About Us:
16 On Center Chicago owns and operates several live music venues, third-party production, restaurants, bars, and food halls across Chicago and New York. Join the team of one of the country's leading independent promoters.
Our most effective service to our community comes from a team with a diverse mix of minds, backgrounds, and experiences. 16 On Center actively seeks a diverse applicant pool and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply. We provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment, without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Position Summary
As the House Manager at Thalia Hall, you will be responsible for overseeing and ensuring a safe, enjoyable show experience for all guests while upholding an extremely high standard of hospitality. This role requires strong leadership, effective de-escalation skills, and the ability to champion a welcoming and inclusive environment.
You will be the first point of contact when a guest requests to “speak to a manager,” requiring confidence in enforcing policies and resolving issues professionally. This role also includes opening and closing duties, coordinating front-of-house staffing, and ensuring smooth event execution by liaising with production, bar, security, and medical staff.
Additional responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Set up, tear down, and move equipment and furniture as needed to accommodate events, including chair setups and trash can placements.
- Coordinate with other departments to ensure seamless event execution, including preparing day and pass sheets and managing pre/post-show activations.
- Maintain composure and problem-solving skills in a fast-paced environment.
- Handle cash accurately for box office, coat check, and merchandise banks, including occasional show settlements (approximately once or twice a week).
- Engage and interact with guests, artists, and staff in a friendly and professional manner.
- Enforce the house code of conduct, advocating for inclusivity, respect, and a welcoming environment.
- Supervise front-of-house staffing levels, making necessary adjustments such as breaks and shift cuts.
- Execute both opening and closing procedures for venue operations.
- Remain available on walkie-talkie throughout shifts to address guest concerns, ticketing conflicts, accessibility needs, and other issues as they arise.
About You:
- Must be at least 21 years of age.
- Minimum of 2 years' experience in event operations and/or hospitality.
- Flexible availability, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Open availability is required for Lollapalooza week (end of July/early August) and New Year's Eve.
- Confident in addressing large crowds and leading motivational pre-shift meetings with staff.
- Strong customer service and communication skills, with the ability to interact professionally with guests and artist management.
- Experience managing and leading a team, with the ability to problem-solve crowd logistics proactively.
- Able to think critically under pressure while collaborating with a team.
- Basic IT knowledge (Google Suite, etc.) preferred.
- Experience with Ticketweb (or similar ticketing service) and Toast (or similar POS) is a plus.
- This role involves physical activity, including standing, walking, and climbing stairs. Must be able to lift and move objects up to 50 lbs.
Salary : $24
