Emerging Arts Professional, Technical Direction

University of Texas at Austin

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Emerging Arts Professional program is a year-long paid opportunity for on-the-job learning in arts administration. Participants work within their area of focus to support the growth and programmatic activity of Texas Performing Arts while developing the job skills, understanding of the field, and network connections necessary to begin or advance a professional career in the arts and entertainment industry. Emerging Arts Professionals receive an annual salary and UT Austin’s benefits package. The Fabrication Studios at Texas Performing Arts supports academic productions within the College of Fine Arts as well as creates elements for professional productions, other university departments and outside clients. Emerging Arts Professionals working in this area will work on scenic fabrication, technical direction for live performance, prop building, and training in design and technical theatre, especially in relation to UT’s Department of Theatre and Dance and the Butler Opera Center. Additionally, they will support the training and development of UT students interacting with the Fabrication Studios.

Requirements

• 1-3 years work experience in performing arts production with a focus on scenic and/or props fabrication. Student roles can count toward this requirement.
• Demonstrated intent to pursue a career in professional arts administration or production.
• Demonstrated organizational skills
• Demonstrated positive attitude, flexibility with working assignments and a willingness to learn and adapt.
• Demonstrated competencies in:
• Teamwork
• Effective communication (written and spoken)
• Accuracy and attention to detail
• Initiative
• Decision making and critical thinking
• Problem solving

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated training and/or experience in computer-aided drafting.
• Demonstrated training and/or experience in technical direction or fabrication project management
• Experience and interest in properties fabrication and management in a live performance environment
• Prior work experience working in a performing arts organization.
• Familiarity with Texas Performing Arts and UT Austin venues and programs

Responsibilities

• Project or Event Planning & Implementation: Serve as project Technical Director or Assistant Technical Director as assigned on Academic and special projects as well as Summer Stock Austin 2027. Supervise and assist in purchasing of materials and cost estimates for assigned productions and projects. Draft elements for fabrication and/or venue installation. Assist in planning and execution of rigging elements for Academic Productions. Supervise students and professionals during fabrication, installation, and striking of production elements. Operate and maintain equipment and machinery including sewing machine, CNC router, laser cutter, 3D printer and related digital fabrication tools. Fabricate, alter, repair, and assist with temporary and long-term storage of fabricated production elements including props, scenery, and backdrops. Purchase, borrow, or rent props and/or scenic elements.
• General Administrative Support: Coordinate and prepare cost estimates for scenic and prop elements including materials and labor for construction. Facilitate student training and monitor student progress in close collaboration with staff and faculty. Train students, volunteers, and employees through hands-on demonstration and participation during all phases of planning, production, and management. Attend production meetings and technical rehearsals as needed. Coordinate internal and external meetings and events. Coordinate across areas for appropriate project documentation. Complete evaluations and reports.
• Professional Development: Participate in Emerging Arts Professional educational programming including monthly meetings, developmental projects and networking events. Serve as a member of the TPA All-Staff Committee Attend TPA performances and activities. Complete a capstone project or experience Perform other related functions as assigned. This job description may not include all assigned duties, responsibilities, or aspects of the job described.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed