Studio Manager in Melbourne

We are seeking a full-time Studio Manager to be at the core of our growing office. We are a small, dynamic team of design specialists in need of administration, bookkeeping, and graphic support. This “all-rounder” role would suit someone who is able to flex to meet our ever-changing needs, take the initiative when there is something new to learn, and be keen to grow in the role as our business grows.

We are a growing office, and the successful candidate will bring an entrepreneurial spirit to be an integral part of our work. An appreciation for the performing arts as well as experience working with Creatives, Architectural, or Engineering design studios, is preferred. You will be an integral part of our team answering directly to the Melbourne Director and collaborating with our accounting and marketing teams in Australia and the United States.

We are looking for aptitude, not just previous experience, so if you have an aptitude for systems, writing, maths, and graphics, we encourage you to apply. We will provide training and support for a candidate with a can-do attitude and a willingness to grow alongside our broader team.

Our Richmond office is located on Swan Street with ample transport options available. This full-time position includes the opportunity to work up to two days a week at home. Other benefits include bonuses and the opportunity to travel to the United States for company-wide meetings.

Schuler Shook is an internationally recognised Theatre, AV, and Lighting consulting firm with projects in Australia and around the world. Our Melbourne office started in 2009 and now includes a growing team of eight. We are part of a larger team of 60 based in the United States.

Schuler Shook is an equal opportunity employer. We promote diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We will honour your experiences, perspectives, and unique identity.

Your Skills and Experience:

We are seeking a candidate with 2-4 years of experience within the industry, and with the aspects for this role listed below:

  • An ability to listen well and collaborate with a team
  • Excellent time management, writing, and maths skills
  • An ability to balance priorities and be a self-starter
  • That you can thrive in a changing environment.

You should have experience with the following software:

  • Microsoft Office, especially Excel and Word
  • MYOB (will train if needed)
  • Adobe InDesign and Photoshop (will train if needed)


As the Studio Manager, duties will include the following:

Office management

  • Work directly with the Melbourne Director to help manage office operations
  • Contribute to management discussions on office strategy and implementation
  • Work with Directors to analyse time and fee data
  • Provide a quarterly report on office operations
  • Track employee reviews and other HR matters
  • Help prepare and update office manuals
  • Help ensure graphic standards are maintained for marketing and other correspondence
  • Organise Melbourne office events
  • Manage cleaners, contractors, and IT support and procure supplies.

Bookkeeping

  • Work closely with the Melbourne Director and our Chicago and Melbourne-based accountants
  • Set up projects in MYOB and enter and update data
  • Track project fees, variations, and payments
  • Ensure all timesheets and other monthly tracking information are completed
  • Generate invoices each month based on guidance from a Director
  • Track employee salaries, leave, and other HR data
  • Reconcile payments and credit card statements with accountant

Marketing Assistance

  • Work with our Melbourne Director and our US-based marketing manager and team
  • Monitor tender notifications, review and provide data informing the opportunities to pursue
  • Read RFTs (Request For Tenders) and discuss salient requirements
  • Help write RFT responses and assemble responses including standard materials and information
  • Track all RFT submissions and marketing efforts
  • Collaborate with the larger US marketing and social media teams.
  • Help procure images of completed projects.

Salary is $80,000-$90,000 per annum commensurate with experience.

Please apply by emailing your resume and cover letter to Jim Hultquist at:

with "Studio Manager" in the subject line. In your cover letter please answer these two questions:

  • Can you please describe the best workday you have ever had?
  • What is your favourite performing arts experience?


All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence.