Primary Role

Performs a wide variety of duties related to the technical aspects of Arts Center performances and projects; manages the technical aspects of productions; manages and trains the student technical crew; performs other duties as required. The Technical Director has the daily responsibility for the technical operations of Performing Arts Center programs and projects including lighting, sound and set design and/or execution, and coordinating necessary maintenance. The Technical Director works with a great deal of independence and exercise independent judgment in performing a wide variety of duties.

Typical Duties & Responsibilities

  • Coordinates with artists/users to determine the necessary technical supports, such as lighting, sound, staging, and special needs, necessary for events and performances presented at the Performing Arts Center in advance of production dates.
  • Designs, sets up, maintains, and operates lighting and sound systems for theater, dance, music, artist series, and other Arts Center productions and projects; assists guest designers and artists.
  • Designs, supervises and assists set and stage construction and management.
  • Oversees student technical crew and practicum students.
  • Orients facility renters and visiting productions to safety, technical characteristics and other areas of facility operations; facilitates the use of the Center's technical facilities by resident companies and artists and others engaged by or renting the facility.
  • Monitors the condition of equipment including lighting, sound, and rigging equipment; arranges for the repair and replacement within budgetary constraints; performs preventive maintenance on equipment.
  • Assists with the preparation and control of production budgets; maintains inventory and orders specialized supplies.

Supervision Required/Given

Supervision is provided by the Performing Arts Director. The position provides supervision to student technical crew and performing arts practicum students.

Position Qualifications

  • The equivalent of a Bachelor's degree in technical theater arts, dance, music, communications or related field from an accredited college or university. Preference will be given to individuals who possess field experience in the technical aspects of theater, dance and music production.
  • Knowledge of techniques, methods and procedures of theater, dance, and music productions and presentations including stage, set, sound and lighting design and implementation; stage management; computerized lighting systems; stage carpentry; appropriate safety precautions and procedures.
  • Ability to analyze and evaluate the need for technical support for various events and performances.
  • Plan, develop, schedule and provide the technical supports required for each event or performance.
  • Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
  • Design and construct sets; lighting and sound systems appropriate to each performance or oversee stage crews and volunteers.
  • Perform minor repairs and preventative maintenance on equipment.
  • Maintain inventory of necessary supplies.
  • Assist in budget preparation.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with representatives of various groups, vendors, co-workers , and others.
  • Maintain irregular and extended working hours.
  • Able to lift, push or pull objects up to 100 pounds using appropriate tools.
  • Position requires a broad range of physical movement including prolonged sitting, standing, walking, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, squatting, and stooping in the performance of daily activities.
  • The position also requires grasping, repetitive hand movement, and fine coordination in operating equipment, using tools and preparing written material.
  • The position requires near and far vision in reading, operating equipment, and viewing productions.
  • Hearing is required to set up, manage and operate sound systems and to communicate with others.