Theater Planner

DLR Group•Los Angeles, CA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

DLR Group is seeking a Theater Planner to join its Theater Planning team in the Los Angeles studio. The role contributes to the planning, design, and documentation of performance venues and theatrical systems as part of integrated design teams. Working with architects, engineers, project managers, and experienced theater planners, the Theater Planner helps develop functional, technically sound spaces that support performance, production, and audience experience. It is suited to an emerging theater-planning professional with technical curiosity, strong communication skills, and an understanding of performance-space operations. DLR Group’s Theater Planning team collaborates with architecture, interiors, and engineering teams to create performance spaces and technical systems that support storytelling, enhance user experience, and adapt to the needs of the performing arts. The firm is 100% employee-owned, and employees are expected to apply financial acumen to help grow the firm profitably. DLR Group follows a four-day in-office work model, with flexibility to work somewhere other than the office on Fridays. Visa sponsorship is not offered, including temporary visas or employment-based sponsorship now or in the future.

Requirements

Undergraduate degree in Theater, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field.
At least 4 years of professional experience in theater planning, theatrical design, architecture, engineering, or a related field.
Working knowledge of theater-design concepts, including performance-space typologies, seating layouts and sightlines, stage lighting, and stage rigging and machinery.
Understanding of performance-venue operations and the theatrical production process.
Proficiency in computer-aided drafting and/or modeling; Revit proficiency is highly preferred.
Working knowledge of design documentation, technical drawings, and specifications.
Working knowledge of building materials, construction methods, and applicable building, fire, and electrical codes.
Strong written, verbal, and graphic communication skills.
Ability to manage multiple assignments and projects while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
Must not require visa sponsorship now or in the future; sponsorship is not offered for this position.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of Bluebeam and AutoCAD.
Experience preparing theatrical equipment system drawings and specifications.
Experience working on performing arts centers, theaters, auditoriums, or other assembly and performance venues.
Familiarity with BIM coordination and clash detection processes.
Knowledge of sustainable design principles and their application to technical design documentation.
Experience collaborating within multidisciplinary architecture, engineering, or design teams.
Ability to clearly communicate complex theater-planning and technical-system requirements to team members outside the theater-planning discipline.

Responsibilities

Participate in planning and designing performance venues, including performance-space typologies, seating layouts, sightlines, stage lighting, rigging, and stage machinery.
Prepare detailed drawings, specifications, and other project documentation for theatrical equipment systems.
Collaborate with architects, engineers, project managers, and other disciplines to integrate theater-planning requirements into projects.
Communicate the functional intent and technical requirements behind theater-planning and equipment-system design decisions to project teams.
Apply building, fire, electrical, and other applicable codes and standards to performance venues and places of assembly.
Develop and coordinate project documentation using Revit, AutoCAD, and other design technologies.
Apply BIM standards and participate in project coordination, clash detection, and QA/QC processes.
Review construction materials, methods, and building systems as they relate to theater planning and theatrical equipment.
Manage assigned tasks across multiple projects and project phases while meeting established schedules and work plans.
Participate in design discussions, contribute ideas, and continue developing technical and professional expertise in theater planning and design.