Manager Technical Arts

About the Position:
This role is an on-campus, in-person position.
The technical director (TD) is a creative, strategic problem solver responsible for translating scenic designs and technical drawings into fully realized stage environments. The TD ensures that all scenic elements are executed safely, efficiently, and in alignment with artistic vision and budget. This role oversees the planning, engineering, construction, installation, and operation of scenic elements for productions, while maintaining a safe and well-functioning shop and performance environment. The TD collaborates closely with faculty, student designers, and production staff; mentors students throughout the design and build process; and provides expertise in construction methods, materials, and emerging technologies. The TD manages shop operations, supervises staff and students, develops build schedules and technical solutions, and serves as a key advisor on feasibility, safety, and innovation in theatrical production.
Essential Functions:
Scenic Engineering, Design Support, and Student Mentorship: Mentors student designers with faculty through design, budgeting, and construction. Evaluates designs for feasibility; develops engineering solutions for scenery and effects; creates or oversees drawings; and advises on materials, methods, and technology to achieve artistic goals safely and within budget.

Scenic Production Oversight and Shop Operations: Plans and executes build schedules; supervises construction, installation, and strike; and participates in rehearsals and production meetings. Oversees scene shop operations, including training and supervising staff and students in safe practices, and provides hands-on support, including construction of scenery, as needed.

Technical Systems, Safety, and Facilities Management: Provides leadership in maintaining a safe working environment across all production spaces. Oversees the operation, maintenance, and safe use of technical equipment, including rigging and motion control systems. Coordinates with the Office of Risk Management to ensure compliance with safety standards for productions and facilities.

Budgeting, Procurement, and Resource Management: Manages scenic budgets, including purchasing materials, hardware, and equipment for productions and shop operations. Tracks and reconciles expenditures and collaborates with scenic artists and production staff to ensure cost-effective use of resources.

Innovation, Technology, and Capital Planning: Stays current with industry standards and technological advancements in scenic construction, automation, and rigging. Recommends and supports acquisition of capital equipment to maintain safe, modern, and effective production facilities.

Project Planning and Institutional Collaboration: Contributes technical expertise to facility upgrades, renovations, and special projects. Collaborates with the Director of Production, project managers, contractors, and other stakeholders to ensure adherence to theatrical standards and best practices.

Production Support, Communication, and Administrative Coordination: Participates in production meetings, develops standard operating procedures in collaboration with the Director of Production, and provides on-call support for performances, including evenings and weekends.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:
Bachelor’s is required. A Master's degree is preferred. A degree field in technical theatre is preferred.
A minimum of 5 years of experience is required.
A valid drivers license is required. A certification in theatrical rigging and training in pneumatics and mechanics is preferred.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Candidate must demonstrate strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate broadly across the University and develop and maintain effective relationships with a wide range of constituencies. Must also demonstrate strong written communication skills.
Candidate must possess strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify and analyze problems, as well as devise solutions. Must also have strong organizational, planning and time management skills.
Skills in theatrical carpentry and craftsmanship, an in depth demonstrated knowledge of theatrical rigging systems and stage automation, working knowledge of stage effects, mathematical skills including structural design, geometry, algebra and trigonometry, working knowledge of techniques, methods and procedural cultures of theatre, dance and opera, and knowledge of appropriate safety precautions and procedures is required. The ability to efficiently produce construction drawings using Vectorworks and/or Auto/CAD is required.
A working knowledge of theatre history and design is preferred.
Candidate must be available on evenings and weekends for technical rehearsals and to be on call for performance emergencies.
Physical and Environmental Demands:
Sit for long periods of time
Bend, squat, stand, crawl, kneel, and climb
Walk for long distances
Reach above shoulders, handle objects, push/pull
Carry 50+ lbs

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