Technical Director, Drama and Dance

UNIVERSITY OF ST. THOMAS - HOUSTON

DEPARTMENT: Drama and Dance

Technical Director

 

Position Summary

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.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Production and Technical Support

• 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

Facilities, Equipment, and Safety

• 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

Instructional Support

• 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

Recruitment and Program Support

• 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

Service and Professional Conduct

• 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

Teaching Opportunities (Adjunct Compensation)

In addition to the required Rehearsal and Production practicum, the Technical Director may teach additional courses in areas of demonstrated proficiency for adjunct compensation, subject to departmental needs, scheduling, and approval. Potential courses may include:

• Stagecraft
• Scenic Design
• Lighting Design
• Theatre History
• Performance or acting courses, when appropriate qualifications are met

Teaching additional courses beyond the required practicum does not alter the staff classification of the position.

Required Qualifications

• 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

Preferred Qualifications

• Design experience in scenic, lighting, sound, costume, or prop design