Technical Director

Coker University; Hartsville (SC); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Coker University seeks a full-time Technical Director for the Elizabeth Boatwright Coker Performing Arts Center. This role involves overseeing technical aspects of productions, mentoring students, and ensuring the safe operation of all technical equipment.

Ideal candidates will have a Master of Fine Arts in Technical Theatre and at least 3–5 years of experience in a higher education setting. The position offers opportunities for collaboration, creativity, and professional growth.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3–5 years as a Technical Director in higher education.
• Experience in designing and building productions across various forms.
• Familiarity with theatre technology and scenic construction techniques.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the Performing Arts Center.
• Lead technical aspects of productions, including lighting and sound.
• Recruit and mentor student crews for technical roles.
• Contribute to faculty and production meetings.

Skills

Technical theatre skills

Lighting design

Sound engineering

Stage management

Organizational skills

Problem-solving

Education

Master of Fine Arts in Technical Theatre or Scenic Design

Tools

AutoCAD

Vectorworks

Lighting systems

Sound systems

Job description

POSITION TITLE

Technical Director for the Elizabeth Boatwright Coker Performing Arts Center (PAC), McCall School of Visual and Performing Arts, Coker University.

POSITION SUMMARY

This position plays a vital role primarily in, but not limited to, designing and executing the technical aspects of a variety of productions and events presented in the Elizabeth Boatwright Coker Performing Arts Center. The TD fosters a positive and inclusive environment that encourages teamwork and nurtures professional and personal growth among students and staff. The position is full‑time (12‑month) and renewable, beginning June 1, 2026 or not later than July 1, 2026. Salary and benefits are competitive. The position reports to the Director of the McCall School of Visual and Performing Arts. The TD maintains a full‑time schedule of day, evening, and occasional weekend hours primarily focused on university performances from the Music, Dance, and Theater programs, and many rental events. Additional compensation comes from work on rental events outside of regular business hours. This is an excellent opportunity for a passionate and experienced individual dedicated to teaching theatre arts, fostering creativity, initiating collaborations, and pursuing excellence in academic and creative spaces.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES

• Oversee and manage all day‑to‑day operations in the Elizabeth Boatwright Coker Performing Arts Center, including The Watson Theater, the Black Box Theater, the Stein Gallery (Lobby), production spaces, dressing rooms, and the green room.
• Produce a variety of university and external stakeholder performances and events in the Performing Arts Center.
• Lead all technical aspects of productions chiefly lighting design and sound engineering, stage management, and set design and construction.
• Ensure stage and scene shop safety, according to industry best practices.
• Maintain stage and scene shop equipment, organizing annual inspections.
• Attend and contribute to weekly faculty and production meetings.
• Serve as a creative thought partner to the McCall School dean and director, faculty, students, and staff.
• Coordinate with administration, faculty, and other stakeholders to ensure smooth operation of theatrical events, performances, and streaming of live events.
• Deploy strong organization and communication skills to accomplish multiple tasks and set priorities.
• Compile and submit requisitions for supplies and equipment related to technical aspects of productions and events.
• Recruit, train, and supervise student and work‑study crews for various technical roles, providing mentorship and guidance.
• Have the opportunity occasionally to teach 3 hours in a semester as needed.
• Offer ideas that support student success.
• Manage students with respect in the scene shop.
• Commit to and contribute actively to Coker's mission.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS

Education

• Master of Fine Arts in Technical Theatre or Scenic Design; or an advanced degree in another field with applicable technical director experience.

Experience

• Minimum 3–5 years as a TD or ATD, preferably in higher education and with teaching experience.
• Designing and building productions (theatre, musical theatre, concert, dance, and others).
• Theatre technology skills, not limited to operating lighting and sound system consoles, live‑streaming systems, projections, stage rigging, sewing machines, and incorporating other scenic construction techniques.
• Designing with CAD software (AutoCAD or Vectorworks).
• Leading production development with flexibility and problem‑solving.
• Prioritizing workflow in a fast‑paced environment involving heavy phone, walk‑in, and computer contact.
• Managing ticket management software.
• Working easily with diverse populations.
• Developing and maintaining meaningful, collegial working relationships with students, faculty, and staff across campus departments.

EEO STATEMENT

Coker University, in compliance with all applicable state and federal laws, including Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, marital status, veterans or military status, or against individuals with disabilities, medical condition, or other legally protected classifications in the areas of employment, admission, financial aid or access to educational or extracurricular programs, activities or facilities.