Production Purchaser in Milwaukee, Wisconsin at Milwaukee Repertory Theater

The Production Purchaser supports all areas of theatrical production through the purchasing, acquisition, and delivery of materials and supplies, rentals, and equipment necessary for production operations. Working closely with the Associate Technical Director and other production department heads, the Production Purchaser coordinates vendor relationships, delivery logistics, trucking and permit needs to ensure efficient and safe production workflows. This position also assists in maintaining production equipment, coordinating rentals, and supporting production load-ins and strike activities.

Major Duties and Responsibilities Include:

Purchasing

• Purchase materials, supplies, and equipment for all production departments in a timely and cost-effective manner
• Maintain current vendor lists, pricing records, and purchasing documentation
• Research and identify vendors that meet production quality and budgetary needs
• Assist production area heads in sourcing specialized materials and equipment

Logistics and Permit Coordination

• Coordinate trucking rentals, and transportation logistics for productions
• Schedule deliveries and pickups for production materials, rentals, and equipment
• Coordinate meter bags, street permits, loading dock access, and dumpster placement as required for productions and events
• Assist in the safe pickup and return of rental equipment
• Maintain compliance with all applicable transportation and safety regulations

Storage and Facilities Support

• Assist with maintenance and repair coordination for production equipment and facilities
• Support safe and efficient operations in all production and storage spaces
• Ensure all purchased materials have current and properly filed Safety Data Sheets (SDS/MSDS)

Production Support

• Support cross-departmental production needs including pickups, deliveries, and logistics assistance
• Participate in production meetings and planning sessions as required
• Additional duties as assigned in support of production operations, special events (including the Curtain Call Ball), and other activities

Technical Knowledge and Experience: Qualified candidates will have experience working in a professional theatrical, entertainment, event production, or related technical production environment. An understanding of production operations, purchasing procedures, logistics coordination, and theatrical safety practices is preferred.

• Demonstrated organizational and project management skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and shifting priorities simultaneously
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow-through on projects
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office products and digital purchasing/tracking systems
• Ability to communicate effectively with a diverse group of colleagues, vendors, and production personnel
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Willingness to learn and expand capabilities in all areas of theatrical production
• Knowledge of theatrical materials, tools, equipment, and safety products
• Experience driving box trucks and coordinating transportation logistics
• Ability to maintain professionalism, grace, and good humor under pressure
• Ability to work nights and weekends as required by production schedule
• Valid U.S driver’s license with good driving record and the ability to operate 26’ box trucks
• Ability to pass a background check in accordance with state and/or federal laws

Physical Demands

Additionally, any physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision and the ability to discern color and fine detail
• Lifting and moving large items (up to 50lbs unassisted)
• Ability to climb stairs/ladders

Milwaukee Rep Values Employees Who:

• Communicate well with a diverse group of colleagues.
• Demonstrate an aptitude and eagerness to learn new skills and processes when necessary.
• Solve problems and engage in creative thinking about challenges individually and in a group environment.
• Are able to accept and incorporate feedback.
• Have excellent interpersonal, teamwork, and diplomacy skills and ability to be self-directed and take initiative.
• Demonstrate a commitment to our mission, and core values both in the workplace and in our community. Learn more about our mission and core values here.

Milwaukee Repertory Theater is committed to creating a culturally diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.