Technical Theatre Lab Production Technician (Arts Laboratory Specialist)

Production Technician – Technical Theatre Lab

The University of Southern California School of Dramatic Arts (SDA) seeks an experienced and collaborative Technical Theatre Lab Production Technician (Arts Laboratory Specialist) to join its Production team. The role reports primarily to the Technical Director and supports the School’s educational mission by helping students, faculty, and guest artists realize ambitious theatrical productions. The position is full‑time and on‑ground, and it operates within a multi‑stage, multi‑use environment to ensure the successful construction and installation of scenic elements for all School of Dramatic Arts productions.
Key Responsibilities

Support students, faculty, and guest designers in the realization of scenic designs for School of Dramatic Arts productions.
Construct, fabricate, and install scenic elements using woodworking and metal fabrication techniques.
Implement student‑designed production concepts while maintaining artistic integrity, safety, and budget considerations.
Assist with load‑ins, technical rehearsals, strikes, and production changeovers.
Operate and maintain theatrical stage equipment, rigging systems, and scenic automation systems.
Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient Technical Theatre Lab environment.
Oversee the operation, maintenance, and enhancement of shop equipment, tools, and facilities.
Ensure compliance with university safety policies and industry best practices.
Plan for equipment upgrades and manage purchasing activities, including major equipment acquisitions.
Monitor inventory, supplies, and production materials.
Supervise and mentor approximately 20–30 student employees.
Train students in safe and proper use of theatrical tools, equipment, and production techniques.
Provide guidance and instruction in scenic construction methods and shop practices.
Foster a collaborative learning environment that supports student growth and professional development.
Assist with budgeting, project estimates, and resource planning.
Coordinate with faculty, staff, guest artists, and production personnel to meet production schedules and educational objectives.
Support facility scheduling and operational planning as needed.
Required Qualifications

BA or BFA in Theatre, Technical Theatre, Theatre Production, or a related field; or equivalent professional experience in theatrical production.
Several years of progressively responsible experience in theatre stagecraft, scenic construction, and theatrical production.
Demonstrated expertise in theatrical scenery construction and implementation.
Experience with theatrical stage equipment, counterweight rigging systems, and scenic automation.
Advanced woodworking skills, including operation of portable and stationary woodworking equipment.
Experience with metal fabrication and welding.
Preferred Qualifications

Experience working in an educational, conservatory, or university theatre environment.
Experience supervising and mentoring student workers or early‑career technicians.
Strong project management and organizational skills.
Experience supporting multiple productions simultaneously in a repertory or academic setting.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with students, faculty, staff, and guest artists.
Prioritize competing deadlines and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Work independently while contributing effectively to a collaborative team environment.
Exercise sound judgment in a fast‑paced production setting.
Maintain a professional, service‑oriented approach while supporting academic and artistic goals.
Physical Requirements

Frequently move theatrical equipment weighing up to 99 pounds.
Ascend and work safely on stairs, ladders, catwalks, and personnel lifts.
Work safely in low‑light backstage and performance environments.
Operate departmental vehicles and maintain a valid state driver’s license.
Application Materials

Cover Letter describing qualifications and interest in the position.
Curriculum Vitae or Resume.
Names, addresses, telephone numbers, and email addresses of three professional references.
Equal Employment Opportunity

USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821‑8100, or by email at uschr@usc.edu.
Background Screening

Applicants will be subject to background screening, including screening for criminal convictions, on all applicants after a conditional offer of employment and as a condition of employment. Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix C for specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.

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