Production managers on cruise ships are responsible for all areas of production in the entertainment department and for all events aboard the ship. Production managers are highly skilled. They must have a bachelor’s degree or higher in sound or video production, engineering, computer science with or other technology related field. In the entertainment department, production managers run the mixing board for bands, they coordinate theater productions, and they supervise audio visual employees. Production managers must also repair and maintain state equipment. Because most cruise ships use advanced technology to run and produce shows, events, and other public spectacles, production managers must have superior computer skills and experience with state-of-the-art equipment.
Production manager jobs on cruise ships can be found in the Activity/Entertainment Department . Positions in this department are considered the most glamorous jobs aboard the ship. These positions deal with anything related to passenger entertainment. In addition to production managers, this department includes: DJs, Photographers, Managers, Casino Staff, and Host/Hostess and Cruise Consultant, to name a few. Those best suited for jobs in this department are typically enthusiastic and extroverted.
Entry-level production managers may start at around $2,800 per month. Production managers with several years experience may make up to $4,000 or more per month, especially on large luxury liners. Production managers on cruise ships will enjoy free travel to exciting destinations, as well as free accommodations and meals. They also receive competitive salaries, health insurance, and free air travel to and from the ship.
To begin the application process, if you have a specific cruise line in mind, locate the cruise lines’ OFFICIAL website first. Visit the Ships and Cruises Directory for official listings. Once you have located the site, visit the website and search around for job postings. Most cruise line websites have a career center or job postings page. If the cruise line lists job openings, be sure to follow the application procedure to the letter. Applicants that do not follow directions are typically passed over in favor of those that do. If the cruise line does not list job openings on its site, send a polished cover letter and resume to the cruise lines Human Resources Department. The Human Resources Department is typically located at the cruise lines headquarters. This information is usually listed on the cruise line website. It is important to include the position you are interested in so that it can be directed to the appropriate department manager.
Good luck!