Project Manager, Production
Type: Full-Time
Location: Hybrid (Parsippany, NJ)
Salary: $110,000 - $120,000
Role Overview
The Project Manager owns the execution of live events from project inception through the conclusion of the show. Projects are originated and sold by Production Managers or Account Managers, who bring the Project Manager in to manage day-to-day delivery. The Project Manager works in tandem with the originating Production Manager or Account Manager throughout the project and serves as the main point of contact for the client up until the show ships to site.
Working primarily on-site, the Project Manager works with scenic, audio, video, lighting, and field operations to translate each client brief into a fully resourced production plan. Responsibilities include attending on-site events for assigned projects as the client-facing producer, with oversight of the on-site technical lead based on the event’s scale, complexity, and client needs.
Success in this role is measured by on-time and on-budget delivery, the quality and safety of every production, smooth handoffs with the Production Manager and Account Manager, and the professional polish that high-profile corporate audiences expect.
As Project Manager, you embody Panavid's commitment to excellence and client satisfaction. You must abide by all rules and policies set forth by Panavid and work timely and ethically when interacting with clients and fellow employees. Panavid has built a reputation on strong client relationships and exceptional service. Your role in upholding our high standards of quality, integrity, and customer satisfaction is essential to the success of everyone at Panavid. You are expected to model professional behavior, lead by example, and ensure your team reflects our values at all times.
Company Description
Panavid is a full-service production, integration, and equipment rental company servicing everything from corporate events to live entertainment, broadcasts to house of worship installations, non-profit galas, brand experiences, and everything in between. We use the latest in audio, video, and lighting technology to transform ordinary spaces into immersive and impactful experiences.
We believe that shared experiences have the power to shape perception, forge meaningful connections, and create lasting impact. We’re a team of collaborators, creators, and problem-solvers that blend creativity with innovative AVL technology to craft custom solutions for live production and permanent installations. We’re not just providing technical solutions; we’re building trust, creating memories, and transforming ideas into moments that matter.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Take handoff from the Production Manager or Account Manager at project inception and run the project through the conclusion of the event.
Serve as the main client point of contact from project reception until the show returns from site. Run production calls, manage approvals and changes, and keep communication clear and timely.
Work in tandem with the originating Production Manager or Account Manager throughout the project, keeping them informed and aligned on scope, schedule, and client direction.
Translate client briefs into equipment lists, scenic packages, labor plans, and production schedules.
Manage project budgets against the approved scope. Track financials, approve POs and sub-rentals, and protect margin through disciplined scope management. Escalate change orders and out-of-scope requests to the originating Production Manager or Account Manager.
Conduct on-site venue scouts ahead of the event to walk the space with the client and/or venue contacts, and document load-in routes, power and rigging capabilities, ceiling heights, sightlines, and any constraints affecting scenic, AV, or layout decisions.
Specify AV, scenic, and graphic requirements with input from department heads and lead technicians.
Coordinate with the warehouse and logistics teams to make sure gear is prepped, packed, and delivered on schedule.
Work with the scenic shop and graphics team to spec, schedule, and track custom builds for printed graphics.
Identify rigging, weight, sightline, power, and venue constraints early and resolve them before fabrication.
Determine crew size, skill mix, and shift structure for each project. Work with the resource manager to confirm labor requirements, scheduling, and oversee freelance technicians’ requirements. Additional requirements may include managing calls from unionized labor in unionized venues.
Attend events on-site as either the hands-on production lead or the client-facing producer, depending on the event. While on-site, the originating Production Manager or Account Manager covers client communication on the Project Manager’s other active projects.
Run pre-production meetings, daily huddles, and post-event debriefs.
Hold crews and partners accountable for safe rigging, electrical, working at height, and load-in/load-out practices.
At the conclusion of the event, hand the project back to the originating Production Manager or Account Manager with all documentation needed for client closeout, including freelance approvals, vendor invoicing details, and debrief notes.
Skills & Qualifications
Experience:
3-5 years in live event production or project management, ideally on corporate or executive-audience events.
Prior experience in a project management role at an AV or live events company preferred.
Solid working knowledge of professional AV systems, audio, video, lighting, projection, LED, rigging, and show control.
Experience managing scenic, carpentry, and custom graphics scopes alongside AV.
Comfortable reading shop drawings, renderings, and signal-flow diagrams.
Technical Skills:
Proficient with Zoom, Slack, Google Suite, Microsoft 365, project scheduling software (e.g., Smartsheet, MS Project, Asana), and rental/inventory platforms (e.g., R2).
Familiarity with Vectorworks, AutoCAD, or SketchUp for reviewing scenic and AV plots.
Knowledge of video equipment types, cabling, power systems, and troubleshooting basics
Forklift certification or willingness to obtain
Core Competencies
Self-directed and organized. Able to manage multiple projects from a home office with limited day-to-day supervision.
Proven ability to plan, budget, and deliver multiple concurrent events on time and on margin.
Strong client-facing communication skills. Comfortable in front of senior executives and their internal teams during the active phase of a project.
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
Primarily home-based with a dedicated workspace and reliable high-speed internet.
Variable hours, including occasional overnight, early-morning, weekend, and holiday calls.
Regular travel to event sites with long days during setup, show, and strike.
Occasional travel to the office to stay current on new equipment, shop builds, internal processes.
When on site: active production environments with heavy equipment, motorized rigging, and high-decibel sound systems. Extended time on feet and the ability to lift up to 50 lbs. occasionally.
Benefits
Health, Dental, Vision, Life, and AD&D Insurance Plans
Paid Sick and Vacation Time Off
401(k) Retirement Plan with employer match
Direct Deposit
Professional development and career growth opportunities