Current open positions at Philly Improv Theater are listed below, with specific application directions. Have general questions about working at PHIT? Please contact us using the theater’s main email address.
Philly Improv Theater Job Openings
Since its opening in 2005, Philly Improv Theater (PHIT) has been the heart of Philadelphia’s nationally recognized comedy scene. Prior to the pandemic, PHIT was producing performances year-round in Center City, ranging from fully improvised comedies, to brand-new sketch shows, and whatever else we came up with. In addition, the PHIT Training Center was dedicated to developing talent locally, offering adult comedy classes in improv, sketch writing, stand-up performance, and acting.
FRONT OF HOUSE (FOH) ASSOCIATES (Part-time, Hourly)
At this time, PHIT is seeking Front of House Associates to manage the day-to-day front of house operations for PHIT shows and student showcases.
Front of House Associates report directly to the Director of Operations. FOH Associates are scheduled for each performance night and are responsible for the overall front of house success during the run of each PHIT show. FOH Associates will work together as a rotating team, managing the box office, tech booth, or backstage area depending on their assignment.
Position Type: Part-time, Hourly
Expected Time Commitment: 10 to 15 hours per week (evening/weekends) with daytime hours potentially available if desired.
Essential Functions:
- Responsible for overall management and smooth operation of the theater and lobby spaces during performances.
- Ensures a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for patrons and staff.
- Processes ticket orders and manages will call and wait lists.
- Performs vaccine card checks at the door. PHIT is a fully vaccinated workplace and all applicants must have at least their two initial vaccine shots (or single shot if given the Johnson & Johnson vaccine) to be considered for hire.
- Handles any patron customer service issues that arise, including on-site box office refunds and exchanges.
- Handles and reconciles cash from box office sales at the end of each shift.
- Executes basic tech booth operation and controls (no technical experience required)
- Light cleaning and organizing of PHIT lobby, stage, and greenroom spaces.
- Requires evening and weekend availability.
Qualifications:
- Minimum one year customer service experience required.
- Prior experience collaborating with a team required.
- Proven ability to remain calm in hectic and stressful situations.
- Experience with ticketing software a plus.
- Interest and enthusiasm for improv, theatre, or the arts is a plus.
Compensation and Benefits:
- $16/hour
- (1) complimentary eight-week class at PHIT per session (available starting 30 days after hire date)
To apply for this position, please email your resume to jobs@phillyimprovtheater.com with the subject line “FOH ASSOCIATE APPLICATION”
Philly Improv Theater’s goal is to embrace diversity and equal opportunity in a serious way. As an equal opportunity employer we are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills of the community we serve at all job levels.
Instructors (Part-Time, occasional)
At this time PHIT is seeking to expand the existing team of instructors for adult level classes. We are looking for individuals with experience in any (or all) of the performance disciplines we offer through our Training Center (long form improv, improvised singing, acting for stage and/or camera).
The Instructor position reports to the Education Director. Instructors are responsible for teaching the various levels of the Philly Improv Theater Training Center’s current curriculum including, but not limited to: improv, improvised singing, performance, acting, etc.
Position Type: Part-Time, occasional
Expected Time Commitment: 2-3 hours per week, per class; 2 hours per week for class related admin, per class; 2-4 hours per session (Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall), for occasional staff meetings and training.
Essential Functions:
*Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions
- Creating a welcoming, safe, and inclusive educational climate which maximizes students’ creative learning.
- Delivering clear, concise, effective instructional activities and objectives in accordance with PHIT’s approved curriculum, policies, and values.
- Weekly post class email communication to students, possible follow-up phone or in person meetings around student progress.
- Managing student behavior in the classroom in accordance with PHIT’s policies and values.
- Registering and monitoring the attendance of students in a timely manner.
- Assessing and reporting on the development, and behavior of students through communication with Training Center staff and completion of required evaluations.
- Receiving and implementing constructive feedback on teaching from the Education Director.
- Participating in staff, group, or other meetings related to the better organization and administration of the Training Center.
- Assisting the Education Director in maintaining curriculum for assigned courses on an as needed basis.
- Responding to requests from marketing staff as directed
- Requires weekend days, weekday evenings, and possibly weekday daytime availability.
Qualifications:
- Required minimum of two years’ teaching or training experience in any or many of the following: theater, comedy, improvisation, improvised singing, stage and/or on camera acting
- Proven ability to lead a group of adults, while maintaining a safe, welcoming, and inclusive learning environment for all involved
- Ability to deliver constructive feedback to students in a timely manner
- Effective written and oral communication skills
- Professional and friendly demeanor
- Prior completion of similar professional level training in improvisation, or acting highly desired
- High visibility and involvement within the comedy community a plus
Physical Demands and Working Conditions:
- An Americans with Disabilities Act Checklist for Physical Activities, Requirements, and Working Conditions is available here.
- COVID-19 vaccination is a requirement for all positions at the Philly Improv Theater. New hires are expected to be fully vaccinated before beginning work.
Compensation and Benefits:
- $40-55/hour for core curriculum teaching time (based on availability), and $15/hour for administrative time.
- $40 – $100 flat fee for workshops and one off teaching assignments (based on workshop category)
- Position is eligible for SIMPLE IRA retirement plan with employer match.
Applications for this position should be emailed to jobs@phillyimprovtheater.com with the subject line “INSTRUCTOR APPLICATION” and should include a cover letter detailing your interest and relevant experience, resume, and two professional references.
Applications for this position must be submitted not later than Monday February 20, 2023. Applications received after this date will not be considered.
Philly Improv Theater’s goal is to embrace diversity and equal opportunity in a serious way. As an equal opportunity employer we are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills of the community we serve at all job levels.