Technical Theater Manager

Job Overview The USC School of Dramatic Arts seeks an experienced and collaborative Technical Theatre Manager to join its Production Area and help lead one of the nation’s most active university production programs. The role centers on the Bing Theatre and three additional venues supporting more than 20 productions annually. The Technical Theatre Manager reports to the Head of Production and oversees technical operations, venue management, production support, and technical staffing while fostering a collaborative learning environment for students. Key Responsibilities Oversee technical operations for the Bing Theatre and three additional performance venues, including lighting, sound, rigging, stage systems, and production infrastructure. Support the planning and implementation of more than 20 theatrical productions annually. Supervise technical staff and student employees, providing leadership, training, mentorship, and professional development. Coordinate technical rehearsals, performances, special events, and institutional programming. Manage venue rental operations, including technical planning, staffing, scheduling, and client support for internal and external partners. Collaborate with university partners such as the Thornton School of Music, the Kaufman School of Dance, and other campus units utilizing the School of Dramatic Arts performance venues. Ensure compliance with university policies, industry best practices, and all safety regulations related to theatrical operations. Oversee preventative‑maintenance programs for lighting, sound, rigging, and other specialized theatrical systems. Coordinate equipment repairs, vendor relationships, inspections, and technical service contracts. Participate in long‑range planning for equipment replacement, capital improvements, and technology upgrades to protect institutional investments and minimize operational risk. Support business‑continuity and emergency‑preparedness efforts for performance venues and production operations. Desired Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Theatre, Theatre Stagecraft, Theatre Production, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience. Minimum five years of progressively responsible experience in theatrical production, venue operations, or technical theatre management. Demonstrated experience supervising staff, crews, and student workers. Comprehensive knowledge of theatrical production practices, including lighting, sound, rigging, stage operations, and production systems. Experience with ETC Eos consoles, GrandMA, networking, audio systems, sound consoles, video technologies, and contemporary entertainment technology workflows. Knowledge of theatrical production, stage management, and stage equipment such as fly systems, rigging, electricity, lighting, and sound. Strong project‑management, communication, and organizational skills. Ability to work effectively with diverse constituencies in a collaborative academic environment. Physical ability to lift, move, and transport theatrical materials, tools, and equipment weighing up to 99 pounds; to climb stairs, ladders, and scaffolding; and to safely work from personnel lifts, catwalks, and other elevated work areas; to work safely in low‑light and backstage production environments. Valid driver’s license and ability to safely operate departmental vehicles in accordance with university policies. Key Skills & Qualifications Technical theatre operations and production management Venue and event operations Lighting systems and electrical distribution Sound reinforcement and audio systems Rigging and stage machinery Entertainment networking and control systems Budgeting, purchasing, and equipment planning Staff supervision and student mentorship Safety management and regulatory compliance Additional Information Required work during evenings and weekends depending on the production schedule. Regular work hours during the production season are Monday through Friday 9:30am to 5:30pm, though subject to change as necessary. The compensation range for this position is $70,000.00 to $80,000.00. The University may adjust responsibilities at any time. Equal Opportunity Employer USC is an equal‑opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative‑action obligations consistent with state and federal law. #J-18808-Ljbffr