On-Call, Scene Shop Assistant

Santa Clara University•Santa Clara, CA

10d•$25 - $30•Onsite

About The Position

The Scene Shop Assistant supports the daily operations of the academic theatre scene shop by assisting with the construction of scenery and props, painting, installation, and maintenance of scenic and prop elements for departmental productions. This position contributes to a safe, inclusive, and educational environment by working alongside faculty, staff, and students, modeling professional shop practices, and helping students develop technical theatre skills.

Requirements

Basic scenic construction methods in woodworking, prop creation, painting, metalworking, and/or rigging fundamentals
Safe operation of hand and power tools
Theatrical production processes and backstage operations
University safety standards and shop protocols
Materials commonly used in scenery fabrication (lumber, hardware, foam, fabrics, paints)
Competent carpentry and fabrication skills
Clear communication suited to student learners
Strong organizational and time‑management skills
Ability to model safe and professional shop practices
Basic problem‑solving and troubleshooting in a technical environment
Work collaboratively with students, faculty, and staff in a teaching‑focused environment
Demonstrate patience and clarity when instructing or guiding inexperienced learners
Maintain a safe, efficient, and inclusive shop environment
Adapt to shifting production timelines and academic schedules
Follow technical drawings and construction plans
2 years of experience in scenic construction or technical theatre, required
Frequent lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling of materials up to 50 lbs.
Regular use of hand and power tools, ladders, and shop equipment.
Standing, bending, and moving for extended periods during work calls and builds.
May be required to travel between campus buildings or off‑site performance venues

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in technical theatre or related field, preferred
Experience working in an educational or mentorship‑based environment, preferred

Responsibilities

Assists in the construction, assembly, and finishing of scenic and prop elements for departmental productions, working with students to demonstrate proper techniques and safe tool usage.
Supports load‑ins and strikes collaborating with faculty, staff, and student crews to ensure efficient and safe execution of production needs.
Helps maintain a clean, organized, and safe shop environment by monitoring tool condition, assisting with equipment upkeep, and ensuring materials are stored properly.
Prepares materials, tools, and workspaces for classes, labs, and production work sessions to support instructional and production activities.
Provides guidance to students working in the shop, reinforcing safety protocols, proper tool handling, and professional construction practices.
Assists faculty and staff in supervising student work calls, labs, and practicum assignments to ensure learning outcomes are met.
Other duties as assigned.