Reports to: Managing Director
Compensation: $120,000 - $130,000 annually
Benefits: Benefits Eligible
About the Guthrie Theater
The Guthrie Theater engages exceptional theater artists in the exploration of both classic and contemporary works, cultivating the next generation of theatergoers and creating transformative experiences for all. Located in Minneapolis, the Guthrie is one of the nation’s most respected regional theaters and a leader in equity, inclusion, and community engagement.
Position Summary
The Director of Human Resources is a strategic and operational leader who partners with the Guthrie’s senior and department leadership to align human resources practices with the Theater’s artistic mission, values, and long-term strategic goals. This position leads a team of HR professionals (2-3 direct reports) in developing and delivering comprehensive HR services including talent acquisition, employee relations, DEIA initiatives, compensation and benefits, training and development, and compliance. The Director plays a key role in fostering an inclusive, equitable, and respectful workplace culture that supports the contributions of staff and artists across all areas of the organization. All employees are expected to center, model and champion the Guthrie’s core values of Artistic Excellence; Community; Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility; and Fiscal Responsibility.
The typical schedule is primarily daytime Monday - Fridays, with eligibility for remote work. The role will require occasional evenings and weekends, reflective of the dynamic schedule of the theater.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Organizational Development
Serve as senior advisor to leadership on organizational development, succession planning, and workforce strategy in alignment with the Guthrie’s evolving organizational and artistic priorities.Create and direct the implementation of the human resources strategic plan for the Guthrie theater and proactively oversee the corresponding budget and resources needs.Participate as a member of the Senior Team and various committees, including but not limited to Labor Management Committee (LMC) and the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility (DEIA) Advisory Group. Analyze workforce data to inform decision-making and support long-term planning.Advise on organizational design, role development, and team effectiveness.Talent Acquisition & Recruitment
Oversee inclusive recruitment strategies that attract diverse, mission-aligned talent across artistic, administrative, and production departments.Ensure equitable, consistent hiring and onboarding practices that reflect the Guthrie’s DEIA commitments and comply with legal standards.Manage open position review process to align talent needs with budget and organizational priorities.Serve as the senior recruiter for Director level and above positions.Make certain onboarding processes are inclusive and designed to emphasize the importance of welcoming and integrating new employees into the organization’s culture.Employee Relations & Culture
Foster a respectful, collaborative, and values-aligned workplace culture.Provide guidance to managers and staff on employee relations, conflict resolution, performance management, and policy interpretation.Lead initiatives to improve morale, engagement, and staff retention.Assist with labor relations issues to facilitate a positive, legally compliant work environment.When required, facilitate separations of employment to ensure compliance with employment law and with respect to the dignity of the individual while protecting the best interest of the theater.Serve as primary contact with legal counsel regarding employment, employee relations, and other legal matters.Review and revise the Guthrie Employee Handbook annually, as well as other policies and procedure to ensure compliance with appropriate legal requirements; communicate updates and promote employee awareness.Guide DEIA initiatives in collaboration with external partners and internal working groups.Conduct surveys and collect other qualitative and quantitative data in order to identify areas of interest to employees. Develop and implement new programs as needed.Total Rewards (Compensation & Benefits)
Oversee competitive, equitable compensation structures in alignment with nonprofit standards.Complete research and market analysis to design competitive pay programs including compensation structure, salary ranges and job grading.Manage employee benefits programs, vendor relationships, and compliance with all relevant laws (ACA, FMLA, COBRA, etc.).Work with and direct benefit broker to ensure quality service, appropriate benefits pricing, and timely reporting to IRS for benefit plans (5500).Lead annual benefit renewal, confer with senior leadership on plan design, benefits costs, and employer/employee cost sharing.Oversee all benefits administration including Health, Dental, Life Insurance, Long Term Disability, Short Term Disability, Retirement Planning, Flexible Spending, and COBRA.Oversee Worker’s Compensation Program. Ensure OSHA workplace safety protocols are adhered to.Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws, union agreements, and internal policies.Ensure compliance with federal regulations in regard to Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA), Family Medical Leave Requests (FMLA), Minnesota Paid Family Medical Leave (MNPFML), Earned Sick and Safe Time (ESST), Wage Theft laws and ordinances, and any other applicable laws as it relates to benefits and compensation.Learning, Performance, and DEIA Integration
Champion professional development, performance management, and leadership training initiatives.Oversee performance management and performance evaluation process. Determine and implement annual evaluation, goal setting, and performance feedback practices. Ensure managers receive ongoing training and coaching related to performance evaluations and constructive feedback.Embed equity and inclusion into HR practices, policies, and cultural programs.Track and analyze workforce data to identify gaps, inform strategy, and support transparency and accountability.HR Operations & Data Management
Ensure efficient and secure administration of HR systems (HRIS), personnel records, and reporting.Oversee audits, risk management efforts, and data-driven HR planning.Lead and mentor the HR team (2 – 3 direct reports) to deliver exceptional service and operational excellence.Requirements:Essential Knowledge and Qualifications
Minimum of 8–10 years of progressive human resources experience, with at least 3 years in an HR leadership role. Experience working in nonprofit, arts, or unionized environments preferred.Strong background in workforce planning, employee relations, organizational development, and HR compliance.Demonstrated experience in advancing DEIA goals within an organization.Proven skills in leading teams, managing change, and building cross-departmental partnerships.Knowledge of the National Labor Relations Act and how to manage within a unionized environment.Excellent communication, strategic thinking, and interpersonal skills.Proficiency with HRIS systems, data analysis tools, and Microsoft Office Suite.PHR/SPHR or SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP certification is a plus.WHO SHOULD APPLY?
The Guthrie relies on the talents of many artists and staff, both on and off the stage, to create powerful works of theater at the Guthrie. We are dedicated to building an equitable environment that is mixed across lines of difference. Acknowledging that there are many identities that are underrepresented in the theater overall, the Guthrie strongly encourages candidates who bring diversity of identity, experience and thought to apply. We also acknowledge that candidates can have unique and non-linear and transferable skills. We encourage you to apply even if you do not meet every single qualification but have transferrable skills and passion for our mission and vision.
WHY SHOULD I APPLY?
Be a part of a leading non-profit organization that is committed to serving not only the local Twin Cities community but the industry as a whole. The Guthrie offers top-notch employee benefits and staff perks which includes:
Competitive Benefits: Health, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Accounts (HSA), Employer contributions to HSA, Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), Dependent Care FSA, Group Life Insurance, Voluntary Life Insurance, Long Term Disability, Short Term Disability, Employee Assistance Program, 403(b) Retirement Plan (with employer match up to 4.5% after one year of service)Transportation: Subsidized passes for Metro Transit buses and trains, discounted pre-tax monthly ramp parkingPaid Time Off: Generous Paid Time Off (PTO), Volunteer Time Off (VTO) Complimentary Tickets: To Guthrie productions Discounted Tickets: To all shows produced by the Guthrie and to some performances hosted by the Guthrie Classes and Camps: Discounts to Guthrie classes and camps Other Perks and Resources: Guthrie Store discount; Employee Affinity GroupsABOUT THE GUTHRIE
The Guthrie Theater engages exceptional theater artists in the exploration of both classic and contemporary plays connecting the community we serve to one another and to the world. Through its extraordinary artists, staff and facility, the Guthrie is committed to the people of Minnesota, and from its place, rooted deeply in the Twin Cities, influences the field as a leading 21st century arts organization. Every year more than 500 people, both on stage and off, help ensure our success in creating and supporting the highest level of theater. As an organization, we are committed to our values of Artistic Excellence, Community, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, and Fiscal Responsibility. The Guthrie Theater is located in the historic Mill District along the Mississippi River in Minneapolis, Minnesota. As the largest city in the state, Minneapolis offers a large variety of parks, lakes, great food, festivals, malls and more.
LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT
The Guthrie Theater would like to acknowledge that we gather on the traditional land of the Dakota People and honor with gratitude the land itself and the people who have stewarded it throughout the generations, including the Ojibwe and other Indigenous nations.
Applicants must submit a resume and cover letter to be considered for the position.
Read LessReports to: Assistant Director of Public Safety
Compensation: $18.75 per hour
Benefits: Non-Benefits Eligible
THE POSITION
The Public Safety Specialist position is responsible for the safety and security of assets, property, personnel, patrons, customers, and all visitors of the Guthrie Theater by monitoring and patrolling the theater premises and responding to incidents in a calm and professional demeanor. All employees are expected to center, model and champion the Guthrie’s core values of Artistic Excellence; Community; Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility; and Fiscal Responsibility.
This position is part-time and non-exempt. This position's hours are reflective of the dynamic schedule of the theater. A minimum of 2 shifts per week are required and you must have weekend availability. Shifts required include one evening and one weekend shift; available shifts include day and evening hours.
The Guthrie is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building an equitable environment that finds strength in diversity of identity, experience and perspective. We are dedicated to hiring and developing talented teams which are inclusive and welcoming to individuals with different backgrounds, thoughts, and abilities. Applicants from populations underrepresented in the theater field are strongly encouraged to apply.
PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Safety and Security
Ensure the appropriate monitoring of activities on Guthrie property (both inside and outside of the building) which includes periodic rounds of the facility.Resolve situations calmly with tact and common sense - including, but not limited to warning and eviction of violators from premises if warranted. Duties include notifying the appropriate municipal departments (i.e., fire, police, emergency responders) when necessary.Respond to emergencies and administer First Aid/CPR/AED when appropriate and necessary.Issue badges to staff and monitor the loaning of badges and keys to vendors.2. Customer Service
Provide exceptional customer service to Guthrie patrons. Take every possible step to ensure that customers have a positive experience.Present a polite and professional demeanor when interacting with patrons and colleagues.Ensure theater and lobby spaces are clean, safe and welcoming.Follow Guthrie policies and emergency procedures, directing patrons in the event of an emergency.Communicate with supervisors, informing them of patron comments, problems, or needs.3. Administration
Can communicate effectively, both verbally and in written form, to complete required documentation of written Incident Reports.Answer phone calls, take messages, and assist vendors, to promote internal department communication, and to ensure effective communication to Guthrie staff.Contribute to the overall work culture of the Guthrie. Promote a positive work culture by promoting interdepartmental teamwork and fostering open communication.Actively track daily tasks as well as write incident reports and gather related information.Monitor status of building systems including but not limited to badges, cameras, doors, escalators/elevators and fire panel.ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE AND QUALIFICATIONS
WHO SHOULD APPLY?
The Guthrie relies on the talents of many artists and staff, both on and off the stage, to create powerful works of theater at the Guthrie. We are dedicated to building an equitable environment that is mixed across lines of difference. Acknowledging that there are many identities that are underrepresented in the theater overall, the Guthrie strongly encourages candidates who bring diversity of identity, experience and thought to apply. We also acknowledge that candidates can have unique and non-linear and transferable skills. We encourage you to apply even if you do not meet every single qualification but have transferrable skills and passion for our mission and vision.
WHY SHOULD I APPLY?
Be a part of a leading non-profit organization that is committed to serving not only the local Twin Cities community but the industry as a whole. In addition to a competitive salary, the Guthrie offers attractive employee benefits and staff perks, subject to plan or policy terms.
Sick Time: One hour of sick time for every 30 hours worked (in concurrence with the Minneapolis and State of Minnesota Sick and Safe Time requirements)Transportation: Subsidized passes for Metro Transit buses and trains; Discounted pre-tax monthly ramp parkingComplimentary Tickets: To all Guthrie productionsDiscounted Tickets: To all shows produced by the Guthrie and to some performances hosted by the GuthrieClasses and Camps: Discounts to Guthrie classes and campsOther Employee Perks: Wellness Program; Guthrie Store discount; Affinity GroupsABOUT THE GUTHRIE
The Guthrie Theater engages exceptional theater artists in the exploration of both classic and contemporary plays connecting the community we serve to one another and to the world. Through its extraordinary artists, staff and facility, the Guthrie is committed to the people of Minnesota, and from its place, rooted deeply in the Twin Cities, influences the field as a leading 21st century arts organization. Every year more than 500 people, both on stage and off, help ensure our success in creating and supporting the highest level of theater. As an organization, we are committed to our values of Artistic Excellence; Community; Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility; and Fiscal Responsibility. The Guthrie Theater is located in the historic Mill District along the Mississippi River in Minneapolis, Minnesota. As the largest city in the state, Minneapolis offers a large variety of parks, lakes, great food, festivals, malls and more.
LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT
The Guthrie Theater would like to acknowledge that we gather on the traditional land of the Dakota People and honor with gratitude the land itself and the people who have stewarded it throughout the generations, including the Ojibwe and other Indigenous nations.
Applicants must submit a resume and cover letter to be considered for the position.
Read LessReports to: Head of Lighting and Projections
Compensation: $33.44 per hour
Benefits: Benefits Eligible
This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement with IATSE Local 13.
Position Summary
The Production Electrician is responsible for heading the lighting crew during install and strike, preparing for the physical execution of the light plots in coordination with other departments and fabricating show practicals to achieve the artistic vision of the lighting designer while maintaining the professional and artistic standards of the Guthrie Theater as they apply to lighting. All employees are expected to center, model and champion the Guthrie’s core values of Artistic Excellence; Community; Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility; and Fiscal Responsibility.
The typical schedule is Monday - Friday 8:30AM-5PM; an additional Sunday 9:00AM-5:30PM shift during tech; and an initial evening focus for each production. There is a minimum of 40 hours per week with a minimum of 44 weeks per year.
The Guthrie is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building an equitable environment that finds strength in diversity of identity, experience and perspective. We are dedicated to hiring and developing talented teams which are inclusive and welcoming to individuals with different backgrounds, thoughts, and abilities. Applicants from populations underrepresented in the theater field are strongly encouraged to apply.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
General Electrics
• Hang, focus, strike and occasionally maintain lighting rig for Guthrie productions under the Head of Lighting and Projections’ direction.
• Assist Head of Lighting and Projections and Production Video Technician as assigned for Guthrie lighting and video department work.
• Work individually or as part of a team on projects as assigned.
• Work, as directed, with other production departments to develop plans for the integration of lighting elements.
• Determine safe power distribution, circuiting and control for all lighting elements within a production using industry best practices.
• Pull and prep lighting equipment and rigging materials for each load-in.
• Transition between tasks and projects when designs or priorities shift.
• Transport inventory within the facility as assigned.
• Troubleshoot electrical and data problems as they arise during load-in, technical rehearsals and previews.
• Set up and strike tech tables for technical rehearsals and previews.
• Execute production notes in a timely manner through the tech process to ensure production quality.
• Provide lighting support for Special Events or additional programming, as assigned. *
Lead
*Following Article X – 10.02 – Full-time employees on the run crew shall be offer the first opportunity to work additional programming at the Guthrie Theater, subject to the provisions of Section 1.05, on the basis of Seniority, followed by Employees on layoff by seniority.
• Take an active leadership role in setting and maintaining the levels of production craftsmanship and artistic excellence.
• Head the lighting crew in the physical execution of the light plot to actualize lighting design.
• Accurately and safely hang and circuit lighting fixtures per the provided paperwork.
• Solve problems in concert with other departments as they arise.
• Lead, advise, assist and assign duties to staff Lead Electrician and other temporary overhire electricians when requested by the Head of Lighting and Projections.
• In conjunction with Head of Lighting and Projections, discuss needed consumable supplies and equipment for each production while proactively anticipating potential production conflicts and problems.
• In conjunction with Head of Lighting and Projections, determine construction techniques and install details for cross departmental lighting elements.
• Plan and execute any special effects including LEDs, low-voltage elements, atmospherics, wireless dimming systems, illuminated or electrified costume pieces or props and special effects.
• Demonstrate creative problem-solving skills and ability to research new techniques/materials/solutions as needed by production.
• Oversee and participate in the strike of all lighting equipment before its prompt return to proper storage.
• Attend morning meetings as the department representative, as directed by Head of Lighting and Projections.
Maintenance of Space and Supplies
• Monitor inventory levels, reporting low inventory items to Head of Lighting and Projections as needed.
• Restore tools and equipment to the proper location when no longer in use.
• Maintain safe conditions and operable shop tools, notifying Head of Lighting and Projections or Associate Head of Lighting and Projections as needed.
• Clean and organize work and storage spaces, tools and lighting instruments.
• Repair equipment, hand tools and cable.
• Regularly inspect and advise on lighting system status for repair or maintenance needs.
• Research and make recommendations for equipment and system replacement and improvement.
Rigging and Safety
• Primary oversight for rigging and safety within the lighting department.
• Review Safety protocols for department, making suggestions to Head of Lighting and Projections and Associate Head of Lighting and Projections as needed.
• Responsible for rigging lighting positions, focus tracks, pipes and hanging points from heights for lighting ladders, booms and temporary positions.
• Oversee and participate in the install and strike of all chain motors, trusses, and specialty lighting positions for the Lighting and Projections department.
Requirements:Essential Knowledge and Qualifications
• Significant demonstrated experience in theatrical lighting for the performing arts and live events. ETCP Electrics, Power Distribution or Rigging certification desirable.
• Knowledge of basic theatrical directions and terminology.
• Advanced knowledge of line and low voltage electrical systems, wiring, 3 phase power tie-ins, disconnects and power distribution equipment.
• Can use and understand various kinds of test equipment and meters such as volt, ohm, amp and DMX.
• Can safely operate a genie lift and scissor lift, MEWP certification a plus.
• Can operate (or is willing to learn how to) operate a forklift.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office suite, Vectorworks and Lightwright.
• Proficiency in networking systems of lighting control such as Net 2 and Net 3 and their associated DMX, sCN and RDM protocols.
• Knowledge of show network protocols including TCP, UDP and network management protocols such as IP, DHCP and subnet masks.
• Proficiency in operating and loading appropriate double purchase fly systems and focus track safety procedures.
• Strong knowledge in theatrical and arena rigging, including working knowledge of chain hoists, truss, truss towers, cable bridges and power winches.
• Familiarity with projection and video playback equipment.
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification desirable.
• Demonstrated leadership experience.
• Proactive approach and skill in creatively solving problems.
• Effectively communicates to ask informed questions and relate information to others and can collaborate with groups of people on departmental projects.
• Can work on ladders, catwalks, in lifts, on a tension mesh grid, focus track and iron grid and at heights of up to 70 ft.
• Can regularly lift 25 lbs. and occasionally lift 50 lbs. unassisted and can climb and crawl into cramped and otherwise limited work areas.
• Keeps current on industry trends in systems and best practices to accommodate the needs of visiting artists.
• Experience with and commitment to working with individuals and teams that exemplify diversity of identity, experience, and perspective, including but not limited to race, color, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, family and/or marital status, creed, religion, ancestry, disability, national origin, sexual orientation or sexual identity, veteran status, genetic information, pregnancy, body size/type, status with regard to public assistance or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law.
WHO SHOULD APPLY?
The Guthrie relies on the talents of many artists and staff, both on and off the stage, to create powerful works of theater at the Guthrie. We are dedicated to building an equitable environment that is mixed across lines of difference. Acknowledging that there are many identities that are underrepresented in the theater overall, the Guthrie strongly encourages candidates who bring diversity of identity, experience and thought to apply. We also acknowledge that candidates can have unique and non-linear and transferable skills. We encourage you to apply even if you do not meet every single qualification but have transferrable skills and passion for our mission and vision.
WHY SHOULD I APPLY?
Be a part of a leading non-profit organization that is committed to serving not only the local Twin Cities community but the industry as a whole. The Guthrie offers top-notch employee benefits and staff perks which includes:
Competitive Benefits: Health, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Accounts (HSA), Employer contributions to HSA, Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), Dependent Care FSA, Group Life Insurance, Voluntary Life Insurance, Long Term Disability, Short Term Disability, Employee Assistance Program, 403(b) Retirement Plan (with employer match up to 4.5% after one year of service)Transportation: Subsidized passes for Metro Transit buses and trains, discounted pre-tax monthly ramp parkingPaid Time Off: Generous Paid Time Off (PTO), Volunteer Time Off (VTO) Complimentary Tickets: To Guthrie productions Discounted Tickets: To all shows produced by the Guthrie and to some performances hosted by the Guthrie Classes and Camps: Discounts to Guthrie classes and camps Other Perks and Resources: Guthrie Store discount; Employee Affinity GroupsABOUT THE GUTHRIE
The Guthrie Theater engages exceptional theater artists in the exploration of both classic and contemporary plays connecting the community we serve to one another and to the world. Through its extraordinary artists, staff and facility, the Guthrie is committed to the people of Minnesota, and from its place, rooted deeply in the Twin Cities, influences the field as a leading 21st century arts organization. Every year more than 500 people, both on stage and off, help ensure our success in creating and supporting the highest level of theater. As an organization, we are committed to our values of Artistic Excellence, Community, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, and Fiscal Responsibility. The Guthrie Theater is located in the historic Mill District along the Mississippi River in Minneapolis, Minnesota. As the largest city in the state, Minneapolis offers a large variety of parks, lakes, great food, festivals, malls and more.
LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT
The Guthrie Theater would like to acknowledge that we gather on the traditional land of the Dakota People and honor with gratitude the land itself and the people who have stewarded it throughout the generations, including the Ojibwe and other Indigenous nations.
Applicants must submit a resume to be considered for the position.
Read Less