McPherson College is looking for an energetic individual to join the college as a Technical Director. This is a 10-month, full-time exempt position eligible for the college’s full benefits package.

The successful candidate will manage the theatrical venues on campus and their technical systems, oversee the design and completion of all scenic elements for the theatre department’s annual productions, and serve in additional technical roles as needed. They will manage the student employees. They may also teach 1-2 courses per semester (at adjunct rate) including courses related to design and technology for technical elements of the theatrical productions.

Responsibilities

• Participate in season selection and in the creation of budget for shows selected.
• Train and supervise student, intern, and volunteer support related to set construction, properties, run crew, lighting crew, sound crew.
• Holding crew calls as needed during appropriate time frames. Guide students in their assigned roles outside of crew calls as needed.
• Supervising and attend all strikes.
• Overseeing maintenance and general upkeep of all theatrical spaces, including purchase and installation of shop tools, lighting equipment, sound equipment and stage curtains and rigging.
• Assisting with maintaining department budget records.
• Assisting with recruitment and retention efforts for the Theater Department as needed.
• Participate in department planning and assessment.
• Assist in maintaining Theater Department facilities, property, and equipment through proper use, and instruction of students regarding proper use.

Qualifications

• Qualified applicants will hold, at minimum, a BA in Theatre and evidence of extensive experience in technical theatre. Preference will be given to candidates who hold a MA/MFA in Technical Theatre.
• Ideal applicants will possess experience with technical direction, set construction and costume management.
• Must be able to carry items up to 50lbs, climb ladders, and work nights and weekends as needed for production.
• Experience teaching in a higher education environment preferred. Experience in set construction, stage lighting, costuming and scene shop management is preferred.

The Ideal Candidate would also have:

• Knowledge of safety procedures and OSHA regulations
• Experience working within budgetary limits
• Ability to initiate, organize and complete projects on time and under tight deadlines
• Ability to work successfully in a collaborative development process with faculty and students
• Experience in college or university teaching and working with student crews
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Experience in other areas of theatre design or technical production

Please complete the online application below and include your cover letter, resume, contact information for three professional references and your unofficial transcripts.