Sound Designer, Middle School Play

Key School Inc; Georgetown East (MD); On-site; Part time

Job summary

Key School is seeking a part-time Sound Designer for the Middle School Play to create, implement, and manage all sound elements, amplifying, mixing, and designing the auditory landscape for the production. The role runs March 1, 2027 – June 1, 2027, with evenings and some afternoons required.

Collaborate with the Director and student sound designer; design speaker layout, mic placement, and mixing during rehearsals and performances; train students and supervise operators; ensure dialogue and

Qualifications

• Experience designing and implementing sound for theater productions.
• Ability to collaborate with directors and student crew.
• Wamiliarity with audience-focused acoustics and mic management.

Responsibilities

• Create and manage all sound elements for the Middle School Play.
• Design speaker layout, mic placement, and mixing console setup.
• Program and operate sound playback systems during rehearsals and performances.
• Train and supervise student operators of the sound board.

Skills

Aural design

Live sound

Mixing

Tools

Mixing console

Wireless mics

Job description

Position Title: Sound Designer, Middle School PlayPosition Type: Part-Time, Exempt, 2026-2027 School YearReports To: Theater Director: Key SchoolEffective Dates: March 1, 2027 – June 1, 2027Position PurposeThe Sound Designer is responsible for creating, implementing, and managing all sound elements for the Middle School Play Production. This is a creative and technical role focused on amplifying, mixing, and designing the auditory landscape of the show.Responsibilities:The Sound Designer is responsible for creating, implementing, and managing all sound elements for specific theatrical productions. This is a creative and technical role focused on amplifying, mixing, and designing the auditory landscape of the show.Aural Design: Collaborate with the Director and student sound designer to develop a comprehensive sound design for the production, including music, sound effects, and ambient sounds.System Setup: Design and implement the speaker layout, microphone placement, and mixing console setup for the performance space.Acoustic Management: Ensure optimal sound quality, volume, and clarity for dialogue, and sound effects.Equipment Operation:Sound: Program and operate the mixing board and sound playback systems during all technical rehearsals and performances, able to troubleshoot.Mic Management and Acquisition: Manage and maintain the floor microphone inventory and/or wireless microphone inventory if applicable (including batteries, frequency coordination, and costume integration) for all performers. Train students to maintain equipment and make recommendations on storage.Student Supervision: Train and supervise student operators running the sound board during performances.Physical RequirementsAbility to lift, carry, and move heavy theatrical equipment up to 50 lbs.Exposure to typical theatrical environments (loud noises, dim lighting, dust, and localized construction materials).Schedule & Attendance RequirementsHours: Hours dependent on each production. Must be present at every tech rehearsal and every performance.2027 Production Calendar:Middle School Play (Title TBD): Tech/Performances and strike: May 23–28, 2027This is a part-time, production-driven role with variable hours in the evenings with some afternoon availability required. This position runs from from March 1, 2026 – June 1, 2027Hours will fluctuate based on the production calendar, requiring peak availability during technical rehearsal weeks, performances, and strikes. The position is estimated to require 40-60 hours per production, though additional hours may be necessary based on production needsMandatory Attendance: The individual must be present for all scheduled technical rehearsals, performances, and strike periods for the designated 2027 production.CompensationCompensation is paid at a rate of $1,500.Commitment to Diversity, Equity and InclusionKey is particularly interested in candidates with experience in creating inclusive school settings and who are culturally responsive. We are seeking candidates with a commitment to educational equity and justice. We learn and grow both as individuals and as a school community when students and adults of diverse backgrounds, abilities and identities develop an understanding of and respect for our commonalities and differences. Together, we have created a community that reflects diversity across a broad spectrum and will help fulfill Key’s promise to prepare our students for the challenges and responsibilities they will assume in an increasingly connected yet diverse and pluralistic world. The diverse student body is 39% students of color, and 32% of our students receive financial aid to create a socioeconomically diverse community. Learn more about our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Key.Please submit a letter of interest, resume, completed application, and three professional references by selecting the link.