Position Title: Associate Technical Director (Full-Time OPS, 12-Month Appointment--NEW)
Department: Theatre and Dance / Theatre LAB at FAU
Reports To: Chair, FAU Department of Theatre and Dance

Position summary

The Associate Technical Director (ATD) is a full-time OPS staff position supporting the technical and production operations of Theatre LAB and the FAU Department of Theatre and Dance. Reporting directly to the FAU Technical Director, the ATD works closely with Theatre LAB’s producing and artistic staff to oversee the technical realization of all productions and events. This position ensures that all work meets the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and artistry while fostering collaboration between the professional and academic theatre environments at FAU.

 

Primary responsibilities

  • Serve as the primary technical support for Theatre LAB productions, overseeing scenic construction, installation, rigging, load-in, and strike.
  • Coordinate with the FAU Technical Director to plan and execute production schedules, technical budgets, and resource allocations.
  • Supervise and train student employees, academic interns, and production assistants involved in Theatre LAB and departmental projects.
  • Maintain shop equipment, tools, and facilities, ensuring safe and organized working conditions.
  • Collaborate with scenic, lighting, and sound designers to interpret and execute design plans efficiently and accurately.
  • Assist in purchasing materials and renting equipment as necessary, following university procurement guidelines.
  • Support departmental productions and special events as assigned by the FAU Technical Director, particularly during periods of overlapping build activity.
  • Lead or assist with technical rehearsals and performance changeovers as needed, ensuring adherence to safety protocols.
  • Promote mentorship and hands-on learning opportunities for FAU students engaged in production work.
  • Contribute to ongoing facility upkeep, safety inspections, and technical infrastructure improvements.

 

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Technical Theatre, Theatrical Production, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and professional experience.
  • Minimum of two years’ experience in scenic construction, stage technical management, or related professional theatre work.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in carpentry, rigging, and stagecraft safety procedures.
  • Ability to read and interpret design and construction drawings.
  • Excellent communication, organizational, and collaborative skills.
  • Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to meet production needs.
  • Preferred: Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Technical Production, Scenic Technology, or a closely related field, and experience in higher education or professional theatre; familiarity with OSHA safety standards; knowledge of lighting, sound, and projection systems; and proficiency with AutoCAD, Vectorworks, or similar drafting software.

 

Teaching opportunities
 Qualified candidates may be considered for part-time teaching assignments within the Department of Theatre and Dance, subject to departmental needs and credentials. Such instructional duties would be compensated separately from this position and are not guaranteed as part of the full-time OPS appointment.

Compensation and appointment
 This is a full-time OPS staff position (12 months), renewable annually based on performance and funding. The anticipated starting salary range for this position is $50,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Health benefits are available. Position is anticipated to work 9am to 5pm weekdays, with occasional nights and weekends to support technical rehearsals.

 

To Apply:

Submit cover letter, resume, representative portfolio example, and two reference contacts to:

Thomas Shorrock
Chair, Department of Theatre and Dance
 Florida Atlantic University
shorrock@fau.edu

 

Application is open until filled. Anticipated start is immediate.