*University Theatre Technical Director at University of Oklahoma in Norman, Oklahoma

Job Description:

The Technical Director (TD) is responsible for supporting the artistic vision of directors and designers across four of five schools within the Weitzenhoffer College of Fine Arts as it relates to budgeting and the realization of scenic designs for School of Drama and University Theatre. The TD manages all aspects of scenery construction and the coordination of technical elements. With this the TD supervises all professional scenic studio staff to include the assistant technical director, charge scenic artist, and the props director; oversees backstage operations, maintains department equipment, and manages the physical spaces of the scenic studio, theatres, and support areas. Lastly serves as the safety officers for stages, and support areas in the Fine Arts Center. Proven ability in personnel management and budgeting; excellent work ethic including time management, workflow management, self-motivation, and interpersonal communication skills; ability to collaborate and work as part of a team; flexible schedule, including weekends and evenings as necessary. The Technical Director will teach one (occasionally two) classes per semester as decided upon by the appropriate faculty of the School of Drama. Other duties as assigned. The Weitzenhoffer College of Fine Arts is committed to an ethos of equity, diversity, and inclusion in its classes and productions; ideal candidates will demonstrate cultural competence in their professional and interpersonal engagement with students, staff, faculty, and members of the public.

Essential Duties

• Supervises build, load-in, strike and storage of sets and props


• Generate all construction Drafting in AutoCAD or Vectorworks


• Budget all productions (for size, scope & cost)        


• Supervise and train student employees and production crews


• Creation and implementation of build schedule


• Work with Design Faculty to manage and maximize the scenery budget


• Ensure all safety practices, protocols and training are implemented


• Attend all specified rehearsals, tech/dress rehearsals, production and staff meetings


• Assist in shop organization and maintenance


• Assist with events in University Theatre

Non-Essential Duties

• Participate in season selection and event planning/consultation for the Weitzenhoffer College of Fine Arts

Required Education:  MFA degree from an accredited college or university.

Equivalency/Substitution: Will accept 72 months of related professional experience in lieu of the Master's degree.

Skills: 

• Experience in scenery construction techniques, stationary and hand power tools, woodworking, and pneumatic tools


• Knowledge of metal working tools and welding techniques, theatrical rigging, automation, tracked scenery, and/or drafting


• Advanced computer skills in Microsoft Office, Vectorworks, and/or AutoCAD


• Provide instruction on safe and efficient use of tools, equipment, and facilities


• Proven ability in personnel management and budgeting


• Excellent work ethic including time management, work flow management, self-motivation, and interpersonal communication skills


• Ability to collaborate and work as part of a team

Certifications and License

• Valid Drivers License

Departmental Preference: 

• Technical Theatre focus preferred

Special Instructions: If you are selected as a final candidate for this position, you will be subject to The University of Oklahoma Norman Campus Tuberculosis Testing policy.  To view the policy, visit https://hr.ou.edu/Policies-Handbooks/TB-Testing.

Diversity Statement: The University of Oklahoma is committed to achieving a diverse, equitable, and inclusive university community by recognizing each person's unique contributions, background, and perspectives. The University of Oklahoma strives to cultivate a sense of belonging and emotional support for all, recognizing that fostering an inclusive environment for all is vital in the pursuit of academic and inclusive excellence in all aspects of our institutional mission.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: The University of Oklahoma, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to, admissions, employment, financial aid, housing, services in educational programs or activities, and health care services that the University operates or provides.

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