Assistant Technical Director

Job Description

Job Description

REPORTS TO: Technical Director
STATUS: Full-time, Exempt

Lyric Opera of Chicago is where the world sings — and where Chicago comes alive.

Under the leadership of General Director, President & CEO John Mangum and Music Director Enrique Mazzola, Lyric stands at the intersection of artistic excellence and civic purpose, harnessing the full power of opera — voice, orchestra, stagecraft, and story — to illuminate the questions, emotions, and experiences that define us as human beings.

Nearly 75 seasons of world-class performances have made Lyric one of the greatest opera companies in the world. What drives us now is what has always driven us: the belief that this art form, at its best, can move people in ways nothing else can. Lyric is also Chicago’s partner — in its neighborhoods, its schools, and its communities — through education, engagement, and a relentless commitment to making opera accessible, relevant, and irresistible to everyone. At the heart of that commitment is The Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center, which trains the artists who will carry this art form into its future. Every night when the curtain rises, Lyric reminds this city — and the world — why live performance still matters.

Lyric Opera of Chicago doesn’t just present opera, it redefines what opera can be. It’s where Chicago comes to be moved — come inside.

We are searching for an Assistant Technical Director to develop all technical aspects of Lyric Opera productions. The Assistant Technical Director works closely with world-renowned designers and directors, highly skilled professional stage crew, and stage management teams to primarily guide the scenery and prop elements of the production through the opening. In addition, the Assistant Technical Director will collaborate closely with other members of the technical department to produce the highest quality work in a fast-paced repertory environment.

Lyric produces over 8 productions a year, a mix of newly designed productions, revivals, rentals, chamber operas, student productions, and special events. The Assistant Technical Director typically takes on a lead role on three to four productions per season and a supportive role for three to four productions per season.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Act as a liaison between designers/directors/production staff and the stage crew.
• Primary focus on Lyric’s concerts, special projects, Lyric Unlimited programming, Ryan Opera Center programming, and mainstage production revivals.
• Supervisory responsibilities aligning with Lyric’s mission and vision: provide direction, oversee backstage departments, lead problem-solving efforts.
• Assist in the development of the technical aspects of Lyric Opera productions.
• Coordinate implementation of designers’/directors’ requirements, including developing technical drawings of scenery and props using CAD.
• Coordinate the production of new elements through completion, including scenic construction and scenic art, and properties.
• Monitor the installation and artistic integrity of productions on stage.
• Supervise all work notes related to assigned productions.
• Participate in pre-production meetings and supervision of summer technical rehearsals.
• Collect and disperse technical information to staff regarding scenery, props, and required stage management documentation.
• Research equipment and materials required for specific special effects, props, or technical requirements and recommend options.
• Attend and oversee setup and scenery shifts for rehearsals and select performances. Assist director, designers, musical staff, and stage management staff concerning scenery, props, and staging.
• Maintain an appropriate record-keeping system for technical documents, production archives, and production rental packets.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:

• Minimum 3 years of relevant experience.
• Basic technical production knowledge, including practical experience in shop/stage operations, scenic construction, stage rigging, painting, and lighting, is essential.
• Demonstrated skills in AutoCAD, Adobe Creative, and Microsoft Office Suites,
• Some design background is beneficial but not required.
• Experience with union crews is highly beneficial.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and use time efficiently.
• Must have effective organizational, analytical, interpersonal, and oral/written communication skills.
• Familiarity with opera repertoire is beneficial but not required.
• Ability to work and think independently, a motivated self-starter who also works well in a larger team.
• Maintain a positive and calm attitude under pressure.

WORK CONDITIONS:

• Ability to navigate uneven stage surfaces.
• Comfortable working in conditions of variable lighting, atmospheric effects, and moving equipment
• Ability to remain in stationary positions for extended periods.
• Ability to operate technical equipment and computers.
• Valid driver’s license.
• The position is full time mainly Monday-Friday, 8am-4pm, but at times is up to seven days per week, including nights, weekends, and occasional holidays. Therefore, hours and scheduling will vary and are subject to change based on the needs of each production or project.

COMPENSATION: 

Job Classification: Full-time, Exempt

Application Deadline: Monday, July 20, 2026 (5:00pm CT)

Salary Range is $60,000-$66,000 annually

Lyric Opera offers benefits including health, dental, vision, 403B (no company match), 401(k) with company match, PTO (including sick, vacation, and personal days, and holidays), life/AD&D coverage, opportunities for professional development, and complimentary tickets.

Lyric Opera of Chicago is committed to enhancing our diverse work environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Lyric prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, parental status, socio-economic status, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable federal, state or local laws. We encourage individuals of all backgrounds to apply.

 

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