Scene Shop Manager

Northern Michigan University; United States; On-site; USD 40,000 - 43,000; Full time

Job summary

Northern Michigan University is seeking a Scene Shop Manager to oversee daily scene shop operations and support the design and construction of scenery for Theatre & Dance productions and WPAA programs.

You will supervise student workers and volunteers, ensure shop safety, and collaborate with faculty designers to realize scenic elements for academic-year and summer productions. Training in craftsmanship and safety is a key focus.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree is required.
• One year of carpentry and/or scenic construction experience.

Responsibilities

• Manage the daily operations of the scene shop.
• Support construction and implementation of scenery for all NMU TD productions and WPAA.
• Supervise student workers, hired artists, and volunteers while maintaining a safe and professional work environment.
• Collaborate with faculty, staff, and student designers to realize scenic elements for NMU TD & WPAA productions.
• Train students in theatrical craftsmanship and shop safety; help maintain efficient production processes.

Skills

Theatre & Scene Shop Safety

Wood & Metal Construction

Power Tools & Welding Safety

Organizational & Time Management

Interpersonal Communication

Creative Problem Solving

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

Power tools

Pneumatic tools

Welding equipment

Job description

Position Title: Scene Shop Manager

Department: Theatre & Dance

Term of Assignment: Term

Term End Date, If Applicable: December 20, 2028

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt = overtime eligible

Work Schedule: Traditionally Monday-Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm with occasional evening and weekend work required.

Salary: Targeted Salary Range: $40,160-$43,100

Travel: Less than 10%

Brief Statement of Duties

Brief Statement of Duties: Responsible for managing the daily operations of the scene shop and supporting the construction and implementation of scenery for all productions within the Department of Theatre & Dance (NMU TD), inclusive of the Wildcat Performing Arts Academy (WPAA). Supervise student workers, additional hired artists, and volunteers while maintaining a safe and professional work environment, and collaborate closely with faculty, staff, and student designers to realize scenic elements for NMU TD & WPAA academic-year and summer productions. Play a vital role in training students in theatrical craftsmanship and shop safety while helping the department maintain efficient and industry-aligned production processes.

Minimum Qualifications

Required Education: Bachelor's Degree

Required Minimum Work Experience: One year of carpentry and/or scenic construction experience.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, or Attributes Required for Satisfactory Performance of the Position Duties:

Working knowledge of theatre and scene shop safety practices.

Proficiency in scenic construction techniques, including wood and metalwork.

Familiarity with safe operation of power tools, pneumatic tools, and welding equipment.

Strong organizational, time management, and interpersonal communication skills.

Adaptability and creative problem solving skills.

Additional Desirable Qualifications

Degree in Theatre, Technical Production, or a related field.

Experience teaching undergraduate classes.

Experience mentoring and supervising student crews in a production or academic environment.

Experience collaborating with production staff in an educational or professional theatre setting.

Knowledge of working drawings and theatrical rigging.

Prior involvement in youth or educational arts programming.

This position is not currently available for sponsorship.

Contact Information: Erica Jean, HR Generalist, 906-227-1087

NMU is an equal opportunity employer.