Tech Theatre Instructor

Job Description

Job Description

Technical Theatre Instructor

Who We Are

JAMS is a Creative Youth Development Program with a vision to create positive change in our community by developing tomorrow’s problem solvers, creative thinkers, and innovative leaders. Our goal is to establish trust, cultivate creativity, and develop leadership. We offer Film, Dance, Music, Visual Arts, Robotics, Taekwondo, and Academic Enrichment. Instructors inspire Jacksonville’s talented inner-city youth and young professionals to become their wildest dreams. Daily activities promote exploration into the world of creative thinking.

Mission

To empower the creative leaders of tomorrow

Vision

Jacksonville Arts & Music School is a Creative Youth Development Program with a vision to create positive change in our community by developing tomorrow's problem-solvers, creative thinkers, and innovative leaders. 

Position Summary

We are seeking a Technical Theatre Instructor to teach students in grades 6th–12th. The Technical Theatre Instructor will foster an appreciation for the behind-the-scenes elements of theatre while providing a dynamic, hands-on, and supportive learning environment for technical development. This role focuses on equipping students with practical skills in production and design while contributing to high-quality performances.
We seek to provide meaningful technical theatre training that builds confidence, creativity, and collaboration. Candidates should be energetic, detail-oriented, collaborative, and progressive-minded.

What You Will Do

As a Technical Theatre Instructor, you will be a passionate and knowledgeable individual who will positively impact the community by creating a welcoming environment for our students and families. You will motivate and inspire students through hands-on learning, real-world application, and production-based experiences while establishing a high level of confidence and program value.

Key Responsibilities

Establish Trust

• Manage and educate students in both individual and group settings
• Maintain a safe, structured, and organized workspace
• Supervise safe use of tools, equipment, and materials
• Apply effective classroom management strategies aligned with our behavior and culture system, using consistent expectations, accountability practices, and positive reinforcement to support student growth
• Follow all teaching standards and safety regulations

Cultivate Creativity

• Teach technical theatre disciplines, including lighting, scenic design, costume design, stage management, technical direction, and basic carpentry
• Use diverse teaching methods (hands-on builds, demonstrations, design projects, media) to engage and motivate students
• Guide students through technical elements of productions and showcases
• Collaborate with directors, instructors, and creative teams

Develop Leadership

• Set and reinforce skill development goals and milestones
• Provide constructive feedback to support student growth
• Support student ownership, discipline, and progression in technical skills
• Document and communicate student progress

Deepen Impact

• Create, submit, and implement program curriculum
• Ensure alignment between instruction and production outcomes
• Participate in Program Assessment Meetings (PAM) and contribute to program improvement
• Support rehearsals, performances, and additional student engagement opportunities

Qualifications

• Previous technical theatre teaching or professional experience
• Strong working knowledge of theatre production elements, including lighting, set design, costumes, and stage management
• Experience with basic tools, construction techniques, and technical equipment
• Ability to teach both introductory and intermediate-level students
• Must be able to complete required DCF training
• Must be able to pass a Level II Background Screening
• Patience, flexibility, and strong problem-solving skills
• Ability to build rapport with students and parents
• Excellent verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational and classroom management skills
• Experience working with children preferred
• Professional work ethic and a desire to grow
  

Additional Qualities Needed

• Ownership Mindset: Takes responsibility for outcomes and follows through without constant oversight
• Execution-Driven: Demonstrates strong follow-through and attention to detail
• Relationship Builder: Builds trust quickly with students, staff, and families
• Adaptable: Thrives in dynamic environments and adjusts to shifting priorities
• Problem Solver: Proactive and solutions-oriented in addressing challenges
• Classroom Leader: Maintains strong presence, structure, and clear expectations
• Cultural Alignment: Embodies the JAMS LIFE WAY and contributes to a positive team culture

Working Conditions

• Schedule: Primarily Monday through Friday from 4:00 PM – 6:30 PM during the academic year
• Summer Programming: Primarily scheduled from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM - optional
• Meetings: Attendance at four (4) annual Program Assessment Meetings (PAM) is required
• Environment: Fast-paced, student-centered, creative learning environment with a mix of classroom, rehearsal, and production settings
• Physical Demands: May include standing for extended periods, facilitating hands-on activities, and assisting with setup and breakdown of materials and equipment
• Additional Hours: Occasional evening or weekend hours may be required to support performances, showcases, or special events