‍Join Our Team!

The Imperial Theatre is looking for an organized, enthusiastic and customer-focused Front of House Lead to join our team.

With a focus on supporting our volunteers and creating an exceptional experience for our patrons, the Front of House Lead is responsible for coordinating the safe and smooth operation of the theatre's front of house services.

This is a hands-on leadership position working closely with our team of volunteer ushers, bartenders and other front of house volunteers. The Front of House Lead plays an important role in audience operations, volunteer services and membership coordination, helping ensure every patron, volunteer and member has a welcoming and positive experience at the Imperial Theatre.

Reporting to the Box Office Manager, the ideal candidate is a well-organized and confident leader who enjoys working with people, can remain calm in a busy environment and demonstrates a strong commitment to exceptional customer service.

Key Responsibilities

Front of House & Audience Operations

• Coordinate the smooth operation of all front of house services before, during and after performances and events.
• Be the lead front of house representative during performances and events.
• Supervise and support volunteer ushers, bartenders, merchandiser sellers and other front of house volunteers.
• Ensure the care, safety and comfort of patrons, volunteers and staff.
• Coordinate volunteer assignments and delegation of duties.
• Work closely with the operations team, venue staff and volunteers.
• Coordinate the use of public spaces for pre- and post-show bars, receptions and special events, including setup and teardown.
• Coordinate school matinee seating and dismissal procedures.
• Supervise and assist with the cleanup of the auditorium and public spaces following performances and events.

Volunteer Services

• Recruit, screen, onboard, place, schedule and support front of house volunteers.
• Coordinate volunteer intake and ongoing communications.
• Train volunteers in front of house procedures, including ushering, bartending, customer service and emergency procedures.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date volunteer records and contact information.
• Record and report on volunteer services and participation.
• Coordinate Vulnerable Sector Check requirements for applicable volunteers and members.
• Help foster a welcoming, respectful and positive volunteer environment.

Membership Coordination

• Coordinate and manage Theatre Sarnia's membership program.
• Maintain membership records and communications.
• Support membership recruitment, renewals and engagement.
• Coordinate membership-related administrative requirements, including Vulnerable Sector Checks where applicable.

Bar, Concessions & Public Spaces

• Ensure appropriate products and supplies are stocked and ordered for upcoming performances and events, including bar inventory, popcorn, coffee and paper products.
• Monitor and restock public areas and washroom supplies throughout performances and events.
• Ensure public areas are clean, welcoming and ready for patrons.
• Work in accordance with AGCO regulations and Imperial Theatre policies and procedures.

Safety & Administration

• Identify, remedy and report safety concerns in all public areas.
• Ensure the safety of patrons, volunteers and staff through adherence to established emergency procedures.
• Maintain a clean and safe working environment.
• Complete administrative duties, reports and communications as required.
• Support other front of house, volunteer and audience-service initiatives as required.

Qualifications & Skills

The successful candidate will:

• Have strong customer service and interpersonal skills.
• Have experience supervising or coordinating staff and/or volunteers.
• Be confident dealing with the public, including handling difficult situations and conflict resolution.
• Demonstrate strong organizational, communication and leadership skills.
• Be able to work independently, take initiative and solve problems as they arise.
• Work effectively and efficiently in a fast-paced environment with frequent interruptions.
• Maintain a calm and professional demeanor under pressure.
• Be willing and able to learn new systems, procedures and skills.
• Be proficient with digital communications and Google Workspace.
• Have a working knowledge of current technology and the ability to perform basic troubleshooting.
• Be available to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends.
• Be able to work extended periods while standing and lift up to 50 lbs.
• Have, or be willing to obtain, Smart Serve and First Aid certification.
• Experience working with volunteers and/or in a theatre, performing arts or live-event environment is considered an asset.

About the Imperial Theatre

Located in the heart of downtown Sarnia, the Imperial Theatre is a vibrant 613-seat performing arts venue and the home of Theatre Sarnia, one of Canada's longest-running community theatre organizations.

The Imperial Theatre welcomes more than 60,000 patrons each year and is active more than 200 days annually, presenting a diverse mix of live theatre, concerts, youth programming, community events and rental productions.

At the heart of the organization is an incredible community of volunteers who work alongside our professional staff to bring performances and events to life. From front of house and bartending to production, performance and behind-the-scenes roles, volunteers are an essential part of who we are.

We are committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive and engaging environment for our patrons, volunteers, artists and community, while continuing to grow the role of the Imperial Theatre as a cultural hub for Sarnia-Lambton.

About the Position

This is a one-year contract position with hours varying according to the Imperial Theatre's performance and event schedule. The successful candidate can expect to work approximately 20–44 hours per week, including regular evening and weekend work.

Compensation: $19.50-$25.00 per hour.

The Front of House Lead is an important member of the Imperial Theatre team and will help ensure that our patrons, volunteers and members have a safe, welcoming and exceptional experience every time they walk through our doors.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are invited to submit a resume and cover letter outlining their relevant experience and interest in the position.

Position: Front of House Lead
Employment Type: One-Year Contract
Hours: 20–44 hours per week
Compensation: $19.50-$25.00 per hour
Schedule: Flexible schedule including evenings and weekends
‍Anticipated Start Date: September 8, 2026‍

Application Deadline: August 11, 2026

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Applications can be emailed to info@imperialtheatre.net

Please include “Front of House Lead” in the subject line.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

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