Assistant Professor of Theatre Arts - Scenic Design and Technical Director emphasis

Utah Tech University • Saint George, UT

83d • $57,000 - $59,000

About The Position

The Utah Tech University Theatre Program seeks a dedicated and collaborative Scenic Designer and Technical Director to support its dynamic undergraduate program and production season. This position plays a vital role in overseeing scenic design and technical direction while mentoring students in professional production practices. This full-time, tenure-track position supports a four-show production season and teaches within a comprehensive theatre design and technology program. More information about the department and its associated programs and faculty can be found online at https://theatre.utahtech.edu/.

Requirements

• MFA in Scenic Design, Technical Direction, theatre technology or related field preferred.
• Demonstrated scenic design experience.
• Demonstrated technical direction experience.
• Demonstrated experience in scene and prop shop operations, including construction and painting.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the history of decoration, furnishings, and architecture.
• Demonstrated ability to use and teach typical computer programs for theatre design and technology (Vectorworks, AutoCAD, and/or Sketchup).
• Working efficiently within financial constraints.
• Demonstrated dedication to teaching students from a variety of backgrounds with differing levels of experience.
• Strong written, verbal and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate successfully as a member of a production team, fostering an inclusive learning environment, and proactively promote student success within an academic theatre program.

Nice To Haves

• 1-3 years of college-level teaching experience with the ability to develop engaging coursework.
• Demonstrated experience with theatrical rigging.
• Preference given to candidates with expertise in design/technical experience for film and dance.
• Preference given to candidates with a strong secondary area of expertise within theatre, such as lighting and/or sound.

Responsibilities

• Teach 24-credit per academic year load, encompassing teaching responsibilities, reassigned time for production work, and mentoring student designers.
• Potential courses include Scenic Design, Stagecraft, Study of Period Styles and Décor, Scene Painting, Intro to Theatre, Script Analysis, and other courses based on expertise.
• Scenic design and technical direction for three productions per year, with an additional student-designed production under faculty supervision.
• Manage the design, construction, and completion of scenic elements and props.
• Oversee scene shop operations and construction.
• Oversee the scenic design/props process, budget management, technical execution, shop maintenance, and safety training.
• Active participation in the scene shop is expected, including hands-on involvement in construction and collaboration with students.
• Supervise the scene shop foreman, student workers, and work-study students while collaborating with other departments using shared facilities.
• Involvement in student recruitment and retention.
• Department service.
• Scholarly/creative activity typical of tenure-track faculty.
• Perform defined campus-wide duties, including holding office hours, attendance at department and division meetings, and adherence to college, division, and university policies and procedures.
• Communicate clearly with students, staff, and colleagues, both orally and in writing.
• Commitment to student recruitment, mentorship, and retention initiatives within the department and university.

Benefits

• Annual salary of $57,000-$59,000 depending on qualifications and experience.
• Additional compensation available for optional summer/overload teaching.
• Excellent benefits package included that begins on start date; includes medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
• Employee assistance and wellness programs.
• Retirement plan contributions.
• Undergraduate tuition waivers for employees and eligible dependents.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: Master's degree