Senior Research Assistant - 12 MONTH

University of Arkansas System•Little Rock, AR

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Theatre Arts at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock seeks a twelve-month Research Assistant in the role of Technical Director for a one-year appointment [with the possibility of renewal]. The successful candidate will join an accomplished and collegial team of theatre faculty and staff dedicated to a student-centered model of production. As the department expands production capacity and in-person performances, we seek a candidate committed to collaboration and artistic innovation. In this position, the successful candidate will be responsible for implementing the scenic designs for departmental productions, for teaching students within the area of technical theatre, and for managing the scene shop and its equipment as well as the theatre spaces. Opportunities to design, depending upon desire and qualifications, will be available. This position is governed by state and federal laws, and agency/institution policy.

Requirements

BA/BFA in Technical Theatre and at least two years of professional experience in technical direction, OR candidates with professional experience in technical direction of five or more years may qualify for consideration.
Must have mechanical skills in the use of hand and power tools and gas and electric welders.
Must be able to read and understand ground plans, design sketches, blueprints, and construction plans.
Must be able to produce working drawings.
Must have strong communication skills and an understanding of the educational mission of an undergraduate baccalaureate program.
Must have the ability to serve as a liaison with outside groups using the theatre facility.
Must be able to collaborate, support, and value the work of resident and visiting design artists.
Must be able to supervise and mentor students in scenic construction and general production skills.
Proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment.

Nice To Haves

MFA in Design/Technical Theatre Production with demonstrated experience in university teaching.
Ideal candidates will demonstrate cultural competence in their professional and interpersonal engagement with students, staff, faculty and members of the public.

Responsibilities

Assist chair and faculty in meeting creative and budgetary goals.
Manage the construction, installation, and rigging of scenery theatre productions.
Provide technical support for sound and properties for productions.
Coordinate shop and stage activities including technical rehearsals.
Maintain construction schedules and documentation.
Supervise and train production-running crews.
Insure upkeep and maintenance of shop and production equipment and theatre spaces.
Advise on inventory, technology, and major acquisitions.
Manage safety protocols and training for students, faculty, and staff using the scene shop.
Fulfill teaching assignments in technical theatre depending on training and experience.