Props Manager & Resident Props Designer

Zach Theater•Austin, TX

25d•$58,000 - $65,000•Onsite

About The Position

At Zach, we believe in the power of light—to illuminate new ideas, spark imagination, and bring people together. As Austin’s leading professional producing theater, we create vibrant, intimate theater experiences that engage, inspire, and connect our community. The Properties Manager is responsible for the design, purchasing, and building of all hand and scenic props and dressing for Zach productions. This includes furniture, set dressing, weaponry and consumables for a production as well as special effects in coordination with the Technical Director, including flame/pyrotechnics. Additionally, they are responsible for managing the Props Fabrication shop, its team members (including full-time and overhire artisans), and other duties as assigned by the Director of Production.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Technical Production or Design with 2 years professional producing theater experience; or a combination of experience yielding commensurate expertise (Required)
Demonstrates planning and organizational skills
Demonstrates knowledge of MS Office including MS Word, Excel, Power Point, and Outlook
Ability to multitask, set priorities, meet deadlines, and manage personnel and projects
Ability to accurately budget and track expenses for prop needs
Ability to work independently or as part of a team, build collaborative relationships, and assist other departments as needed
Ability to communicate orally and in writing
Ability to interact with all levels of the organization and handle change effectively
Thorough knowledge of Art and Architecture history including furniture and motifs
Ability to successfully collaborate with scenic designers to achieve the production’s vision
Shows evidence of finding creative solutions, possesses a high aesthetic standard, and solves problems resourcefully
Thorough knowledge of construction materials including plastics and epoxies
Thorough knowledge of construction techniques and materials including wood, steel, plastics, foam, molds, epoxies and soft goods
Demonstrates knowledge of small motors, pneumatics, hydraulics and electronics
Basic understanding of costume history
Knowledge of pyrotechnics, special effects, and flame special effects
Knowledge of Photoshop, Illustrator, or equivalent photo editing software
Demonstrated ability to use basic hand and power tools
Knowledge of safety regulations and best practice
Deals with Change Effectively
Ability to perform all work with a direct reflection of the vision, mission, and values of Zach Theater
Ability to lift, push, pull, or maneuver up to 70 lbs repeatedly, alone or with assistance
Must have reliable transportation and the ability to work a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends and holidays and/or on call based on production needs

Nice To Haves

4 Years of Professional Experience in theatre with 2 Years of experience as Properties Manager or Designer (Preferred)
Experience driving a box truck or trailer (Preferred)

Responsibilities

In charge of the on-time and on-budget delivery of all properties for all Zach productions and special events, as assigned by the Director of Production
Serves as Resident Properties Designer for all Zach productions and coordinates with contracted Scenic Designers on selection of dressing, furniture, and other cross departmental elements
Schedules and organizes the shopping and construction of properties and set dressings
In charge of the hiring and scheduling of prop artisans involved with each production
Collaborates with the Technical Director, Scenic Charge, Manager of Lighting and Video, Stage Operations Supervisor, and Costume Director on cross departmental elements
Maintains Props Inventory including digital database and repair and maintenance of all goods
Oversees the properties rental program to internal and external clients
Participates in mandatory technical rehearsals and previews
Participates in all Production Meetings, Staff Meetings, and Notes Meetings as assigned by the Director of Production