Theatre Scene Shop Supervisor and Tech Director

Butler University•Indianapolis, IN

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Butler University Department of Theatre seeks an experienced Theatre Scene Shop Supervisor and Technical Director to oversee the planning, construction, implementation, and safe operation of scenic and technical direction activities in support of the department’s production season and educational mission. This hands-on leadership position is intended for a highly skilled technical theatre professional who combines expertise in production management, scenic construction, shop supervision, and student instruction. The successful candidate will be responsible for the safe, efficient, and timely realization of production work while helping students develop technical skills, professional practices, and increasing levels of responsibility and independence.

Requirements

Master’s degree in Theatre Technology or related field, or equivalent professional experience (4-6 years).
Demonstrated success as a Technical Director, Shop Supervisor, Production Manager, Master Carpenter, or comparable professional position.
Strong proficiency in scenic construction, carpentry, rigging, drafting, welding, shop operations, and theatrical production practices.
Ability to read, create, and implement technical drawings and construction documentation.
Knowledge of industry-standard safety practices and procedures.
Demonstrated ability to supervise crews, manage projects, and collaborate effectively with students, faculty, staff, and guest artists.
Must possess a valid driver’s license.
Must possess and maintain an acceptable driving record in accordance with University policy.
Ability to rent and operate box truck.

Nice To Haves

Undergraduate instruction, training, or supervision experience
Advanced scenic construction and rigging experience
Proficiency with CAD, Vectorworks, or related drafting software
Experience managing production budgets and schedules
Working knowledge of lighting, sound, video, scenic painting, and other technical theatre disciplines

Responsibilities

Plan, coordinate, schedule, and supervise scenic construction and technical production activities.
Determine materials, labor requirements, fabrication methods, construction sequencing, and production timelines.
Produce and interpret technical drawings and construction documentation.
Ensure all production work is completed safely, accurately, and on schedule.
Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate student work crews.
Provide instruction in scenic construction, fabrication techniques, tool operation, rigging practices, and shop safety.
Foster increasing student responsibility, independence, professionalism, and technical proficiency.
Maintain a safe, productive, and educational work environment.
Monitor production budgets and expenditures.
Purchase materials, supplies, and equipment as needed.
Manage inventories and recommend equipment replacement or upgrades.
Maintain scene shop facilities, tools, equipment, storage areas, and production spaces.
Develop, implement, and enforce safe operating procedures.
Ensure compliance with university safety policies and industry best practices.
Teach up to two courses annually (not to exceed six credit hours per academic year).
Complete design assignments as assigned by the Department Chair and departmental production needs.
Coordinate load-ins, strikes, transportation, and overhire labor.
Attend production meetings and collaborate with production personnel throughout the production process.

Benefits

20 days of paid time off (vacation and PTO days) per Fiscal year
8 Paid Holidays
Paid Winter Break between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day
Paid Parental Leave (after 1 year of full-time employment)
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans including disability and life insurance programs
10% employer contribution after 1 year of full-time employment
Remission of tuition for classes taken at Butler for employees, spouses, and dependent children.
Eligibility after 9 months of full-time employment
Employees & spouses- undergraduate/graduate degrees
Dependents (under age 26)- undergraduate degree
Tuition Exchange Program for Dependents at participating institutions
Access to Butler’s on-site fitness facility and libraries for full-time staff and faculty
LinkedIn Learning Courses
Free premium subscription to the Calm App
Free subscription to the WSJ, The Economist, and NYT
Discount at the College Bookstore
Discount on select Athletic and Arts/Events Center Performances