Technical Director for College Theater

Job Summary The Technical Director for College Theater reports to the Manager of College Theater, Office for the Arts, and supports Harvard undergraduates producing co‑curricular theater in both dedicated and multi‑use spaces. The position advises and supervises all technical aspects for 10‑15 productions per year, including sets, lighting, sound, rigging, load‑ins and strikes, and provides hands‑on training and oversight in college‑run venues. Job‑Specific Responsibilities The TD serves as a resource for Harvard students presenting undergraduate, co‑curricular theatrical productions in a variety of theater spaces and multi‑function spaces across the College. The TD advises and supervises projects — set, lighting, costumes, projection, sound design, rigging and production load‑in and strikes — and provides technical support and training to students mounting projects in college‑run venues. Responsible for purchasing and maintaining theatrical rigging, lighting, costume, projection, communications, sound, and safety equipment. Orders and maintains distribution of theatrical inventory such as lumber, paint, hardware, etc. Along with the Manager for College Theater, oversees all operational, production, staffing, and capital expense budgets. Coordinates transport of props, costumes, and equipment around campus. Helps oversee all facility needs, including obtaining entertainment license, working with FAS on construction projects, built‑in theater systems, and collaborating with Harvard College Admissions on shared building usage. Safety (25%) The TD works with representatives from other departments and Environmental Health and Safety to ensure consistent safety practices across the Harvard College performing arts spaces. Primary responsibilities for student and public safety include: Communicating and enforcing policies regarding safe use of power tools, ladders, lifts, and other rigging tools and devices. Designing and implementing trainings and procedures for prop shop and venue safety. Enforcing public and university policies related to the use of environmentally safe materials and proper handling and disposal of toxic materials, including scenic paint. Maximizing reuse and recycling of materials. Responsibility for occupancy, accessibility, and emergency egress requirements for various performing arts spaces across campus. Fire prevention and protection policies, including use of fire‑retardant materials and emergency response procedures. Staff Management (15%) Interview, hire, train, supervise, and conduct annual performance reviews for Production Technicians and oversee temporary staff and student workers. Special Projects (10%) Advises and supports the Office for the Arts on special projects and initiatives. Working Conditions Willingness to work flexible and extended hours, including weekends, in a rigorous work environment. Willingness to be on‑call for questions and emergencies. Physical Requirements Ability to lift 50 lbs, walk or stand for extended periods of time, and work at heights — from ladders, scaffolding, and lifts. Basic Qualifications Bachelor's degree required. Five plus years of experience as a theater designer and/or technician required. Proven experience and expertise in the maintenance and use of theater lighting and sound equipment, construction tools, and other specialized equipment. CAD such as Vector Works experience. Additional Qualifications and Skills Advanced degree preferred. Experience teaching and supervising undergraduates preferred. Strong communication skills a must. Ability to work flexible and changing staggered hours in keeping with student curricular and co‑curricular schedules, including evenings and weekends as needed. Proficiency with Mac OS, Microsoft Office, and FileMaker. Standard Hours / Schedule 35 hours per week, including evenings and weekends as needed. Compensation Salary range: $93,000 – $98,000, including shift differential if applicable. Visa Sponsorship Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Pre‑Employment Screening Identity Education Criminal background Benefits Generous paid time off, including parental leave Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one Retirement plans with university contributions Wellbeing and mental health resources Support for families and caregivers Professional development opportunities, including tuition assistance and reimbursement Commuter benefits, discounts, and campus perks EEO / Non‑Discrimination Commitment Statement Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non‑discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes. Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non‑discrimination policy. #J-18808-Ljbffr The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.