Assistant Manager, Props and Placemaking - NBCUniversal

We create world-class content, which we distribute across our portfolio of film, television, and streaming, and bring to life through our theme parks and consumer experiences. We own and operate leading entertainment and news brands, including NBC, NBC News, MSNBC, CNBC, NBC Sports, Telemundo, NBC Local Stations, Bravo, USA Network, and Peacock, our premium ad-supported streaming service. We produce and distribute premier filmed entertainment and programming through Universal Filmed Entertainment Group and Universal Studio Group, and have world-renowned theme parks and attractions through Universal Destinations & Experiences. NBCUniversal is a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation. 

Each day Universal Studios Hollywood creates unforgettable experiences for our guests from around the world. We bring to life the ultimate Hollywood experience with our real working movie studio and heart-pounding rides, shows and attractions that put you inside some of the world’s most popular movies and TV shows. USH offers something for everyone from thrill seekers to movie lovers to family fun for all ages. Our Team Members are passionate individuals who create memorable moments whether it’s on the studio lot, or in our conference rooms, theaters, or kitchens. We believe in the talent of our team members. It’s our passion and commitment to excellence that drives our business to succeed in everything we do across the park. We believe in a culture of family and fun, here you can make a difference and build your career! 

Here you can be your authentic self. As a company uniquely positioned to educate, entertain and empower through our platforms, Comcast NBCUniversal stands for including everyone. Our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives, coupled with our Corporate Social Responsibility work, is informed by our employees, audiences, park guests and the communities in which we live. We strive to foster a diverse, equitable and inclusive culture where our employees feel supported, embraced and heard. Together, we’ll continue to create and deliver content that reflects the current and ever-changing face of the world.  

The Assistant Manager, Props & Placemaking is a pivotal role within the Entertainment Creative Development team, responsible for providing comprehensive support in the planning, execution, and management of all prop and placemaking initiatives. Reporting directly to the Manager of Props & Placemaking, alongside the Supervisor of Props & Placemaking, this role requires a strategic mindset, excellent leadership abilities, and a strong focus on operational efficiency, documentation, and upholding our world-class standards.

JOB DUTIES

• Assist in fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration within the department, ensuring alignment with Universal Studios Hollywood's vision, mission, and values.
• Collaborate with the Manager of Props & Placemaking in overseeing daily operations related to prop fabrication, installation, and maintenance, ensuring adherence to established standards and procedures.
• Support the development and execution of prop production plans, coordinating with internal teams and external partners to meet project objectives within allocated budgets and timelines.
• Act as a liaison between department stakeholders, providing regular updates, addressing concerns, and facilitating effective communication channels.
• Assist in the supervision and development of the prop artisan team, providing guidance, feedback, and mentorship to enhance performance and foster professional growth.
• Contribute to the enhancement of operational processes and workflows, identifying areas for improvement and implementing strategic solutions in collaboration with the Manager and cross-functional teams.
• Assist in maintaining a safe and compliant working environment, ensuring adherence to Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) policies and regulations.
• Support Manager in building and maintaining effective relationships with key stakeholders, fostering a spirit of teamwork and collaboration across departments.

• Assisting in the development and implementation of prop production plans, including resource allocation, scheduling, and budget management.
• Providing direct supervision and guidance to prop artisan team members, ensuring tasks are delegated effectively and executed to meet quality standards.
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams to translate design concepts into tangible props, overseeing fabrication processes, and conducting quality control checks.
• Assisting in the procurement of materials, tools, and equipment necessary for prop production, optimizing resource allocation to maximize efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Supporting Manager in monitoring project timelines and milestones, identifying potential risks or issues, and implementing corrective measures as needed to ensure project success.
• Contributing to the development of maintenance plans for props and set decor, coordinating repairs and refurbishments to preserve their quality and functionality.
• Providing operational support during live events and productions, coordinating logistics, troubleshooting technical issues, and ensuring seamless execution.

• Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent work experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in prop fabrication, set dressing, or related roles within the entertainment industry.
• Strong leadership abilities, with demonstrated experience in supervising and developing teams.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders at all levels.
• Proficiency in project management principles, with experience in planning, organizing, and executing complex initiatives.
• Knowledge of industry standards and best practices related to prop fabrication, materials, and safety protocols.
• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze issues, develop solutions, and make informed decisions under pressure.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and project management tools/software.
• production.
• Demonstrated ability to work on multiple projects concurrently, with confidence to multi-task and delegate as required.
• Solid understanding of live entertainment production in a theme park environment.
• Must be available to work on weekends, holidays and nights as required.
• Ability to read, interpret and follow documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals.
• Ability to write reports, business correspondence and procedure manuals.
• Ability to effectively present information and answer questions in one-on-one and group settings.
• Strong interpersonal and analytical skills.
• Self-motivated with the ability to prioritize, meet deadlines, and manage changing priorities.
• Demonstrates ability to work independently under pressure; proactive thinker/self-starter.

KEY COMPETENCIES

Leadership: Demonstrated ability to inspire, motivate, and lead a team towards achieving common goals. Proven experience in providing direction, support, and mentorship to team members, fostering a collaborative and high-performance work environment.

Strategic Thinking: Strong analytical skills with the ability to assess complex situations, identify key issues, and develop strategic plans and solutions. Capable of anticipating future needs and proactively addressing challenges to ensure the successful execution of prop and placemaking initiatives.

Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively convey ideas, instructions, and feedback to diverse audiences. Proficient in building and maintaining relationships with internal and external stakeholders, facilitating open and transparent communication channels.

Project Management: Solid understanding of project management principles, including resource allocation, scheduling, budget management, and risk assessment. Experience in coordinating multiple projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks, and ensuring timely delivery within scope and budget constraints.

Creativity and Innovation: Innovative thinker with a creative mindset and a passion for storytelling and immersive experiences. Ability to collaborate with designers, artists, and creative teams to develop unique and engaging prop designs that enhance the overall guest experience.

Problem-Solving: Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to analyze complex issues, identify root causes, and develop practical solutions. Adaptable and resourceful, capable of navigating challenges and making informed decisions under pressure.

Adaptability: Flexible and adaptable to changing priorities, deadlines, and business needs. Comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, with the ability to quickly adjust plans and strategies to meet evolving requirements.

Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail, with a focus on ensuring the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship in prop fabrication, installation, and maintenance. Thorough in conducting quality control checks and implementing corrective measures as needed.

Collaboration: Proven ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including designers, technicians, vendors, and external partners. Experience in building strong working relationships, resolving conflicts, and driving consensus to achieve common objectives.

o Required On-Site: This position is required to be performed full-time from an NBCUniversal-designated worksite.

This position is eligible for company sponsored benefits, including medical, dental and vision insurance, 401(k), paid leave, tuition reimbursement, and a variety of other discounts and perks. Learn more about the benefits offered by NBCUniversal by visiting the Benefits page of the Careers website. Salary range: $69K-$75K

NBCUniversal's policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, gender identity or expression, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, membership in the uniformed services, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable law. NBCUniversal will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with relevant legal requirements, including the City of Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative For Hiring Ordinance, where applicable.

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