Steppenwolf offers two stage management apprenticeships. Each apprentice is assigned to two or three of the productions in our Subscription Series. Apprentices work with our professional stage management teams from pre-production through final performance. In the process, they will have the opportunity to maintain paperwork, take line notes, be on book, preset and run shows, and rehearse understudies, among other duties. Stage management apprentices are required to attend daytime rehearsals and become an active running crew member during evening performances. These are full-time paid apprenticeships while the productions are in rehearsal and during the run. Stage management apprentices are not eligible to earn EMC points. 

Dates, Hours & Compensation

  • Schedule is according to the production calendar. Depending on show assignment, apprenticeship can run anytime from August 2026 - August 2027.
  • During rehearsal and performance weeks, hours typically range 35-45 hours per week.
  • $17.27/hour

Who Should Apply for this position

This position is perfect for applicants interested in learning about the functions of a professional stage manager. This position requires a certain amount of stage management experience coupled with the desire to dig in and learn the ropes in a fast-paced environment. 

Alumni for this position

Alumni for this apprenticeship have gone on to be Equity Stage Managers and Assistant Stage Managers at many Chicago theaters, including Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Goodman Theatre, Lookingglass Theatre, Court Theatre, Drury Lane Theatre, and Paramount Theatre.

Alumni have also gone on to work in the production departments at various theaters including Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Writers Theatre, University of Chicago, Northlight Theatre, and Chicago Humanities Festival.

Application Requirements

Please submit the following by Monday, March 2, 2026:

  • Cover Letter
  • Resume or Curriculum Vitae (References Optional)
  • 1 Letter of Recommendation
  • Paperwork Sample: Please include a piece of paperwork (ex. run sheet, prop preset, page from a callbook, etc) that you are especially proud of. Sample should not exceed two pages in length.

Please click this link to begin the application process.

Cover Letter Tips

As you craft your cover letter, please respond to the following:

  • What excites you about this position in this department at Steppenwolf Theatre Company?
  • What experience and skills do you bring to this position?
  • What are you hoping to learn or what are some skills that you are excited to grow?
  • Why are you interested in an apprenticeship position at this time?