Scenic Art Assistant - School of Drama - College of Fine Arts
About The Position
Carnegie Mellon University’s School of Drama is searching for a Scenic Art Assistant. This is a dynamic opportunity for someone who thrives in an interesting and challenging work environment. You will contribute to the department by providing vital educational support by working alongside student technicians and managers in the completion of paint and surface treatments for the School of Drama productions. This is a part-time hourly position, working 20 hours per week, primarily in the evening. It begins 25 August 2026 and ends 7 May 2027. There will be weeks, during school breaks, when there will be no hours. This position assists the staff scenic artist and faculty scenic charge artist.
Requirements
- High School Diploma Required
- 1-3 years of relevant work experience
- Portfolio of work required at interview
- Successful Background Check
- Strong knowledge of theatrical painting techniques and color mixing
- Ability to understand and follow directions
- Experience with safe handling of hazardous shop materials
- Work well under pressure and pay close attention to detail
- Flexibility, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within the School of Drama.
- Inclusion, collaboration, and cultural sensitivity are valued competencies at CMU.
- Seeking a team member who can effectively interact with a diverse population of internal and external partners with a high level of integrity.
- Looking for someone who shares our values and will support the mission of the university through their work.
Nice To Haves
- A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.
Responsibilities
- Paint and finish all scenic elements, including priming, texturing, sculpting, and applying scenic details.
- Assist in creating paint & surface treatments and/or sculpture samples.
- Assist in periodic upkeep/touch-up of painted elements during the tech and run of productions.
- Help organize and clean the Paint Shop and paint area, track inventory, and maintain shop supplies and tools.
- Assist with student project preparation
- Lead student crews
- Basic materials handling
- Other similar duties as assigned
Benefits
- comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance
- generous retirement savings program with employer contributions
- tuition benefits
- ample paid time off and observed holidays
- life and accidental death and disability insurance
- free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass
- access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs
- fitness center access
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
