Properties Master (Performing Arts Technician I)

California State University, Fullerton•Fullerton, CA

1d•$3,721 - $5,420•Onsite

About The Position

Cal State Fullerton’s College of the Arts within the Division of Academic Affairs is an essential part of the creative fabric of Southern California, proudly serving as both an academic and cultural resource. We are a living laboratory for the arts, where success is measured in lines of dialogue, phrases of choreography, sheets of music and slabs of clay. Our alumni leave lasting legacies by contributing to the vitality of the arts nationally and globally and can be found in all facets of the thriving art and entertainment industries. We seek an exception individual to join our Theatre/Dance team as the Properties Master (Performing Arts Technician I). The ideal candidate in this role should have a positive attitude and an active, energetic mind characterized by highly ethical practices and a commitment to inclusivity, openness, flexibility, integrity, and kindness.

Requirements

Competition of professional training or applicable college coursework and practical experience.
A minimum of one year of experience working for a theater, repertory, or stock company engaged in the applicable production specialty such as costume construction, stage and set construction, lighting production, and/or sound and audio production.
Working knowledge of design principles and the ability to translate design specifications, blueprints, or drawings into applicable costume, scenery, lighting, and sound production.
Ability to identify and appropriate materials and supplies needed for projects and manage materials budgets for production specialty and specific projects.
Foundational knowledge of applicable software packages for the production specialty.
General knowledge of historical periods as they relate to the production specialty.
Working knowledge of and ability to use the patterns, methods, materials, and equipment involved in the construction and reconstruction of costumes and related accessories.
Ability to assist in the training and supervision of students involved in productions.
General knowledge of methods and problems related to applicable production specialty area.
A background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily and is required for employment.
A valid California driver’s license.
Basic first aid certification.

Nice To Haves

Previous practical theatre properties construction, procurement, and painting/finishing.
Ability to work well with students of all skill levels.
Knowledge of computer assisted design/drafting (Vectorworks).
Knowledge of and experience in all aspects of properties construction including furniture construction and upholstery, molding and casting, sculpting with foam and other products, sewing, MIG welding and metal fabrication.
Knowledge of special effects, period weaponry of all types, period fabrics/floor, period practicals, period furniture, and decorative pieces.
Familiarity with relevant professional organizations and activities.
Must have the ability to meet department production deadlines and scheduled openings.

Responsibilities

Under the general supervision of the faculty Scenic Designer, the Properties Master independently fabricates, adapts, selects, rents, and borrows properties — including furniture, puppetry elements, fabric goods, food items, household objects, and small hand props — ensuring each production is equipped with the elements needed to bring designs to life.
The Properties Master (Performing Arts Technician)works closely with faculty and student designers throughout the production process, from early planning and problem-solving through load-ins, technical rehearsals, and strikes.
Using technical skill, resourcefulness, and a thorough understanding of production goals.
Dresses sets in consultation with the faculty Scenic Designer and improvises solutions for special property elements as needed.
Responsible for the overall management of the props shop and storage areas, including maintaining accurate inventories, coordinating the use of department-owned and borrowed materials, establishing checkout procedures, ordering supplies, and ensuring all workspaces remain clean, safe, and compliant with Cal OSHA regulations and hazardous materials requirements.
Trains and supervises students and production assistants in all aspects of properties fabrication, installation, operation, repair, and maintenance.
Establishes work schedules, assigns tasks, approves timekeeping entries, and ensures quality of work across all production phases while fostering a safe and professional shop environment.
Other duties as assigned.