House Carpenter

STEPPENWOLF THEATRE COMPANY

 House Carpenter

For 50 years, Steppenwolf Theatre Company has been a cultural leader in Chicago and model for theatre companies in the United States and around the world. Formed by a collective of actors in 1976, the ensemble represents a remarkable cross-section of actors, directors, stage managers and playwrights. Steppenwolf’s artistic ambitions are made possible by its incredible workforce of individuals, who help create a culture of inclusivity, collaboration and accountability. To that end, we attempt to use an anti-oppressive and anti-racist lens in our roles and everyday decision-making. Join us in this ongoing process, as we navigate, together, our complex world.

House Carpenter

Steppenwolf Theatre Company is seeking candidates for the full-time position of House Carpenter.  The House Carpenter works as part of the Stage Operations team and is responsible for running productions, collaborating with staff on the load-in and load-out of theatrical scenery, maintaining props/scenery, and maintaining a safe work environment. As this position runs shows, the schedule varies, and often include evening and weekend hours. This position reports to the Stage Operations Supervisor.

Areas of Responsibilities:

• Running and maintaining the backstage areas.
• Maintaining and repairing set and prop elements as needed.
• Participating in the load-in and strike of productions.
• Maintaining a safe and tidy work and stage environment.

Successful candidates will have:

• Experience running productions and operating automated scenery. 
• Working knowledge of power tools and hand tools.
• Basic skills in theatrical carpentry, automation, rigging, and sewing.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently and multitask.
• Knowledge of safe practices relevant to hazardous waste and MSDS.
• Ability to frequently lift and carry objects weighing 50+ lbs

Two years of run crew experience is preferred. Candidates with equivalent experience and expertise will be considered. This position will start on or about January 19, 2026.

About Steppenwolf:

Steppenwolf Theatre Company is the nation’s premier Ensemble Theater with 49 members who are among the top actors, playwrights and directors in the field. Thrilling, powerful, groundbreaking productions — from Balm in Gilead and Grapes of Wrath to August: Osage County, Downstate and The Brother/Sister Plays — have made this theatre legendary. Founded in 1976, Steppenwolf started as a group of teens performing in the basement of a church. Today, the company's artistic force remains rooted in the original vision of its founders: an artist-driven theatre, whose vitality is defined by its appetite for bold and innovative work. Every aspect of Steppenwolf is rooted in its Ensemble ethos, from the intergenerational artistic programming to the multi-genre performance series LookOut, to the nationally recognized work of Steppenwolf Education and Engagement which serves nearly 15,000 teens annually. While grounded in the Chicago community, more than 40 original Steppenwolf productions have enjoyed success nationally and internationally, including Broadway, Off-Broadway, London, Sydney, Galway and Dublin. Steppenwolf also holds accolades that include the National Medal of Arts, 14 Tony Awards, two Pulitzer Prize-winning commissions and more. Led by Artistic Directors Glenn Davis and Audrey Francis, Executive Director Brooke Flanagan and Board of Trustees Chair, Keating Crown — Steppenwolf continually redefines the landscape of acting and performance.  

Steppenwolf Mission:

Steppenwolf strives to create thrilling, courageous and provocative art in a thoughtful and inclusive environment. We succeed when we disrupt your routine with experiences that spark curiosity, empathy and joy. We invite you to join our ensemble as we navigate, together, our complex world. 

steppenwolf.org, facebook.com/steppenwolftheatre, twitter.com/steppenwolfthtr and instagram.com/steppenwolfthtr. 

Steppenwolf Core Values:

Equity + Inclusion

Integrity + Curiosity

Courage + Collaboration

Accountability + Leadership

Compensation:

This is a Full Time Position with a salary range of $41,155 - $,44,749 with excellent benefit package for full time employees, including medical, dental, vision insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, vacation pay, paid sick time, personal days, Ventra transit benefit program, employee assistance program and 401(k) matching retirement program.

How to apply:

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume and three references.

NO PHONE CALLS OR EMAILS PLEASE

Steppenwolf Theatre Company is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. We provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Steppenwolf complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training