Technical Director, Drama and Dance

University of St. Thomas•Houston, TX

About The Position

The University of St. Thomas in Houston invites applications for a Technical Director for the Drama and Dance program. This is a full-time staff position aligned with the academic year. The Technical Director provides technical and production support for the Drama and Dance season and contributes to student learning through supervision, mentorship, and practicum instruction. The Technical Director works in collaboration with faculty, guest artists, and students to support two black box theatre productions, one off-campus theatrical production, and one dance concert each academic year. The position includes required instruction of the Rehearsal and Production practicum course each semester and offers the opportunity to teach additional courses in areas of demonstrated proficiency for adjunct compensation, subject to departmental needs and approval.

Requirements

MA or MFA in Theatre or a closely related field, or ABD
Demonstrated experience in technical theatre production or a related professional environment
Proficiency in theatrical carpentry and scenic construction
Basic working knowledge of ETC lighting systems and consoles
Basic working knowledge of theatrical sound systems and sound consoles
Strong organizational and time management skills
Demonstrated commitment to safety and best practices in technical theatre
Experience supervising or mentoring students or crews
Effective communication and collaboration skills

Nice To Haves

Design experience in scenic, lighting, sound, costume, or prop design
OSHA certification or documented safety training
Experience working in an academic or educational theatre setting

Responsibilities

Provide technical direction and support for Drama and Dance productions, including two black box productions, one off-campus production, and one dance concert annually
Assist with scenic construction, technical implementation, production schedules, and safety practices in collaboration with faculty and production staff
Supervise and mentor student crews and paid student assistants
Coordinate load-ins, loadouts, strikes, and technical rehearsals
Assist with production planning and materials orders as assigned
Work collaboratively with directors, choreographers, designers, and faculty
Assist in maintaining and organizing theatre spaces, scene shop, storage areas, and associated production facilities
Support the establishment and enforcement of safety protocols in theatre and shop spaces
Supervise student training in the safe use of theatre equipment, hand tools, and power tools
Perform routine maintenance of technical theatre equipment and systems
Assist with annual equipment inventory and reviews
Serve as instructor of record for the Rehearsal and Production practicum course each semester
Supervise and evaluate student practicum work and crew assignments
Support student learning through hands-on technical instruction and mentorship
Participate in production meetings and technical rehearsals as required
Contribute to department recruiting and outreach efforts as assigned
Participate in auditions, open houses, and recruitment events
Support program activities that advance student enrollment and engagement
Maintain appropriate professional relationships with students, colleagues, and community partners
Participate in department meetings and planning activities as appropriate to the position
Engage in professional development activities relevant to technical theatre and production support