Experience Design & Production Tech Director — Faculty Mentor

California Institute of the Arts; Santa Clarita (CA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 85,000; Part time

Job summary

CalArts, School of Theater, seeks a forward-thinking, collaborative, and highly skilled Special Faculty member who serves as Technical Director to bridge teaching and practice, combining curricular development, coursework, and student mentorship with oversight of student-centered production work for a multi-show season.

This 9-month position offers a salary range of $75K-$85K, commensurate with experience. Potential for renewal.

Qualifications

• Earned MFA in Technical Direction or Theatre Technology or equivalent professional experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience as a Technical Director in regional theater, commercial entertainment, or experimental performance.
• Advanced proficiency in AutoCAD/Vectorworks and structural engineering calculations for the stage.
• Strong pedagogical drive to teach and mentor diverse student populations.

Responsibilities

• Teach specialized courses in technical direction and related topics.
• Mentor BFA/MFA students and oversee student-led production work.
• Provide technical leadership for a multi-show season, including budgeting and scheduling.
• Review structural, rigging, and mechanical drawings for productions.
• Oversee safety, compliance, and training for staff and students.
• Collaborate with faculty and guest artists across disciplines.

Skills

AutoCAD/Vectorworks proficiency

Structural design calculations

Rigging techniques

Automation systems

Pedagogical teaching

Education

MFA in Technical Direction or Theatre Technology

Equivalent professional experience

Tools

AutoCAD

Vectorworks

Job description

CalArts, School of Theater, seeks a forward-thinking, collaborative, and highly skilled Special Faculty member who serves as Technical Director to bridge teaching and practice, combining curricular development, coursework, and student mentorship with oversight of student-centered production work for a multi-show season.

This 9-month position offers a salary range of $75K-$85K, commensurate with experience. Potential for renewal.