Application Process
For immediate consideration, complete our online application at https://www.micds.org/our-school/career-opportunities/ and upload a copy of your cover letter and resume.
JOB SUMMARY
The Theater Technical Director manages Seldom Scene, a student club which serves as a production staff for all MICDS Upper School theater productions. The TD will be responsible for fostering creativity, teamwork, and artistic expression and will oversee all aspects of the set design process for school productions by providing guidance, mentorship, and technical expertise to Seldom Scene club members. This is a part-time position without benefits.
MICDS Theater productions strive to produce professional levels of scenery, lighting, and sound. Student Seldom Scene members provide these technical elements for all theater productions (ie.: Fall Play, Freshman/Sophomore Play, Junior/Senior Play, and Troubadours) under the direction of the Technical Director. Seldom Scene meets every Tuesday and Thursday night (hours and days of obligation for the TD are increased during tech and performance weeks) from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. All work is created in a fully equipped Scene Shop for both the Vincent Price Theater (black box) and the Orthwein Theater (main stage). With special attention given to the safe and proper use of tools and materials, the Seldom Scene students receive instruction from the TD in building, painting, rigging, handling of stage scenery and props, hanging and focusing of lighting equipment, installation of sound equipment, and running tech.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- The Theater Technical Director develops, teaches, and enforces safety protocols for all technical aspects of production, including equipment operation and set construction through proper use, training, and guidance to students and faculty.
- Coordinates and collaborates with the directors and designers to understand each production’s technical requirements. Teaches and coordinates the safe construction, painting, installation, and maintenance of scenic elements for each show.
- Develops technical plans/drawings, timelines, and budgets for all aspects of each production and determines the best way to construct, rig, and install stage scenery.
- Manage set construction, including sourcing materials, organizing build schedules, and overseeing student crew members by coaching them toward understanding their roles and responsibilities.
- Organizes the striking and storage of all standard scenic elements at the conclusion of each production.
- Collaborates closely with the theater department staff and maintains a high level of safety and a collegial working environment for students and staff.
- Assists with student training in lighting, sound, projection, and stage management.
- Works with the Director of Facilities to support the maintenance and improvement goals of the theater spaces, scene shop, and equipment.
- Provides technical theater experience through a fully equipped scene shop and is responsible for maintaining an inventory of technical equipment, tools, and materials. Provides or schedule regular maintenance and repairs for technical equipment to ensure functionality and safety. Also identifies equipment needs and makes recommendations for purchases or upgrades within budgetary constraints.
- Other projects and responsibilities may be added at the School’s discretion.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND QUALIFICATIONS
- Preferred applicants possess a Bachelor’s degree in technical theater or a related field with prior experience focused on scenic construction and painting and a familiarity with all other facets of production, such as lighting, sound, projections, and stage management.
- Experience in set design, construction, and/or stagecraft, with a strong understanding of design principles, materials, and techniques is required. In addition, knowledge of safety protocols and regulations related to set design and construction, with a commitment to maintaining a safe working environment is essential.
- Candidates should demonstrate strong organizational, budgetary, leadership, and multitasking skills, managing multiple projects concurrently and delegating tasks as appropriate.
- Excellent communication (verbal and written) and interpersonal skills are key, with the ability to effectively collaborate with faculty/staff and mentor students to aid in unleashing their creative potential.
- Prior experience working with high school students or youth groups is preferred but not required.
- Ability to work in an environment that embraces a diverse community of students, educators, parents, and alumni.
- Experience working in a one-to-one laptop environment or relevant technology skills. Additionally, expertise in hand drafting and either AutoCAD or Vectorworks for conveying technical drawings and details between directors, designers, and scene shop crew is desired.
- Must enjoy working and learning with children.
OTHER INFORMATION
- A criminal history and background check is required and must be successfully completed prior to employment
- Time commitment: 8 Hours per week for 36 Weeks
- Tuesday and Thursday from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.
- Tech and performance weeks
- All work is performed during evening hours and on weekends
- Will work with machinery and some heavy lifting will be required
- May work at a desk and computer for extended periods of time
- Work primarily in a traditional climate-controlled environment
- Work intermittently in outside weather conditions, including extreme heat and cold
