Emerging Arts Professional - Fabrication Technical Direction

Job Posting Title:

Emerging Arts Professional - Fabrication Technical Direction

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Hiring Department:

Texas Performing Arts

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Position Open To:

All Applicants

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Weekly Scheduled Hours:

40

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FLSA Status:

Non-Exempt

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Earliest Start Date:

Aug 01, 2025

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Position Duration:

Expected to Continue Until Jul 31, 2026

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Location:

UT MAIN CAMPUS

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Job Details:

General Notes

This position is expected to be from August 1, 2025 to July 31, 2026. However, the dates are flexible. The deadline for applications is May 1, 2025. Please submit your application prior to the deadline.

If you have questions about the fellowship or the application process, please contact Tim Rogers, Director of Education & Engagement at trogers@texasperformingarts.org. More information is available at: https://texasperformingarts.org/emergingarts

About Texas Performing Arts

Texas Performing Arts (TPA) is the professional arts presenting and producing program of The University of Texas at Austin. One of the largest and most active university-based performing arts centers in the U.S., TPA is an anchor institution in Austin’s arts, cultural, and entertainment scene. TPA operates venues on the UT campus including Austin’s largest theater, Bass Concert Hall. Its public programs include Broadway in Austin; a curated season of international dance, theater, and music; and presentations of national touring artists. TPA is an integral unit of UT’s College of Fine Arts and engages students across the university in creative experiences.

Purpose

The Emerging Arts Professional program is a year-long paid opportunity for on-the-job learning in arts administration. Participants work within their area of focus to support the growth and programmatic activity of Texas Performing Arts while developing the job skills, understanding of the field, and network connections necessary to begin or advance a professional career in the arts and entertainment industry. Emerging Arts Professionals receive an annual salary and UT Austin’s benefits package.

The Fabrication Studios at Texas Performing Arts supports academic productions within the College of Fine Arts as well as creates elements for professional productions, other university departments and outside clients. Emerging Arts Professionals working in this area will work on scenic fabrication, technical direction for live performance, prop building, and training in design and technical theatre, especially in relation to UT’s Department of Theatre and Dance and the Butler Opera Center. Additionally, they will support the training and development of UT students interacting with the Fabrication Studios.

Responsibilities

Project or Event Planning & Implementation

• Assist in the planning and implementation of assigned TPA events or projects under the leadership of the area staff and in coordination with other stakeholders.

• Serve as project Technical Director as assigned on Academic and special projects. Oversee purchasing of materials and cost estimates for scenery of assigned productions and projects.

• Draft elements for fabrication and/or venue installation.

• Supervise students and professionals during fabrication, installation, and striking of production elements. 

• Operate and maintain equipment and machinery including sewing machine, CNC router, laser cutter, 3D printer and related digital fabrication tools.

• Fabricate, alter, repair, and assist with temporary and long-term storage of fabricated production elements including props, scenery, and backdrops. 

• Purchase, borrow, or rent props and/or scenic elements.

• Prepare staff for meetings, including meeting agendas, briefing reports and information packets. Handle meeting follow-up needs.

General Administrative Support

• Engender a work culture defined by proficiency, safety, excellence, and creative problem solving. 

• Coordinate and prepare cost estimates for scenic and prop elements including materials and labor for construction.

• Facilitate student training and monitor student progress in close collaboration with staff and faculty. 

• Train students, volunteers, and employees through hands-on demo