Waterloo Community Playhouse Seeks Technical Director

Waterloo - WCP has announced its search for a new technical director.

General Job Description: This individual reports to the Executive Director and is responsible for working under the direction of the Artistic Directors with the technical team (professional and volunteer);directs the technical operations of the theatre (lighting, sound, scenic, etc.); and effectively implements production operations in a manner that both efficiently manages workflow and meets production deadlines. As the oldest Community Theatre in Iowa, we pride ourselves on teaching and exposing our residents to the magic of theatre. The Technical Director/Production Manager is a teacher in many facets and leads the technical team with respect, compassion, patience and kindness.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Technical Operations

Operate, maintain and safeguard the technical assets of the theatre, including supervising the use of lighting, sound and communications equipment, and the use and maintenance of WCP/BHCTfacilities.

In consultation with each show’s Artistic Director, determine the necessary technical supports, such as lighting, sound, staging, and special needs, necessary for performances in advance of production dates.

Set up and maintain lighting and sound systems for productions; provide lighting and/or sound design support as assigned.

Advise show’s Artistic Director of tech specifications, costs, and usage of tech equipment for each show.

Lead First Tech rehearsals (lights, prop changes, shifts, and sound; cue to cue rehearsal).

Assist with the preparation and control of production budgets; maintain inventory and order supplies in consultation with the Executive Director.

Attend Tech Week rehearsals to supervise and assist in the technical aspects of the show.

Facilitate rentals of props and set pieces to both individuals and other theatres.

Use quality control measures to maintain and repair the set of each show in performance.

Monitor and maintain the condition of equipment including lighting, sound, and rigging equipment; consult with Executive Director regarding repair/replacement within budgetary constraints.

Ensure that all technical equipment and company resources/facilities are properly maintained and repaired.

2. Construction

Create and construct physical production elements to the highest possible standards, within budgetary constraints, according to the designers’ and directors’ wishes.

Implement and realize the completion of all set/stage construction and installation during all work sessions.

Actualize the painting of all sets, set pieces and props.

Be available to answer questions from the technical team during work sessions.

Ensure compliance at all times with health and safety regulations to provide a safe working environment.

3. Volunteer Relations

Recruit, train, and manage all volunteer crew heads and running crews.

Orient volunteers to best practices of safety and facility/company operations.

Teach volunteers various theatre crafts in relation to lighting design, technical direction and set construction.

Be present at all rehearsals from First Tech on to supervise volunteers and assist with problem solving in the technical aspects of the show.

Provide a physical presence during all performances by planning and preparing for future shows while being available in case of technical emergencies.

Plan strikes and supervise volunteers during strikes to ensure safety and efficiency.

4. Administrative Duties Attend all staff and production meetings.

Maintain running inventories of stock set pieces, props, tools, and equipment.

Pick up and transport donations, as needed.

Organize and maintain order in prop/set storage areas, shop, office space, and backstage, keeping them clean and free from clutter.

Teach tech theatre classes/workshops/tours when assigned.

5. Perform other duties as deemed necessary by the Executive Director

Required Qualifications

Experience in producing theatre, preferably across a range of technical departments including stage, set, sound and lighting implementation; stage management; computerized lighting systems; stage carpentry; and safety precautions and procedures.

Stable and verifiable experience in construction and production management.

Commitment to achieving high standards within limited resources.

Strong team leadership skills and proven ability to work as part of a unified team.

A flexible approach to working, including the ability to work unsocial hours.

Ability to plan and prioritize work effectively.

Knowledge and proficiency in theatrical technology and creative platforms.

Commitment to the mission of WCP/BHCT.

Ability to climb stairs, use ladders and man-lifts, work on catwalks above the ceiling of the theater and above the stage, and lift/carry up to 100 pounds.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience collaborating with a variety of partners.

Demonstrated awareness of current trends in theatre technology.

Exhibit computer literacy skills (word processing, spreadsheets, and CAD/Google SketchUp/similar) and multimedia performance capabilities.

Experience in producing theatrical light, sound and scenic designs.

To Apply

Send résumé and cover letter to jobs@wcpbhct.org or WCP/BHCT · P.O. Box 433 · Waterloo, IA 50704 Candidates invited to interview will be expected to provide a professional portfolio to validate work experience.

Equal Opportunity Employer


Source: WCP