Technical Director

Otterbein-University; Westerville (OH); On-site; USD 12,000 - 16,000; Full time

Job summary

Otterbein University’s Department of Theatre & Dance is seeking a sabbatical replacement for the position of Technical Director for the spring 2027 semester, onsite in Westerville, Ohio. The role oversees the safe operation of the scene shop and production logistics for a nationally recognized BFA Theatre Program, requiring some nights and weekend work.

The Temporary Full-Time position collaborates with faculty and guest designers, mentors students in carpentry, rigging, and welding, and

Qualifications

• Sabbatical replacement for spring 2027 in Technical Director role.
• Experience in scenic construction, drafting, rigging, and shop safety.
• Proven leadership and ability to mentor students.
• Ability to work some nights and weekends.

Responsibilities

• Draft scenic designs via AutoCAD, budget, and purchase materials.
• Lead/participate in construction and load-in of scenery.
• Mentor Design/Technology students in carpentry, rigging, welding.
• Supervise daily shop operations and student crews Mon-Fri and weekends.
• Attend rehearsals and be on-call during performances.
• Lead scenery and prop strike; collaborate with faculty/designers/production staff.
• Meet deadlines according to production schedule.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Mentoring

Drafting

Safety protocols

Education

Undergraduate degree in Theatre Design/Technology

Tools

AutoCAD

Job description

Otterbein University Department of Theatre & Dance is seeking a sabbatical replacement for the position of Technical Director for the spring 2027 semester beginning onsite January 4 and ending after strike of spring musical April 26. Some off-site work may be required prior to Jan. 4. Compensation is $14,000 / housing is not included. This is a temporary full-time position responsible for overseeing the safe operation of the scene shop and production logistics for a vibrant nationally recognized BFA Theatre Program. The position will require some nights and weekend work. Full production calendar available upon request.

• Serve as Technical Director for the winter mainstage play (Romeo & Juliet) and spring musical (Into the Woods): Drafting of scenic designs via AutoCAD, budgeting and purchasing materials, assisting in the creation of the lineset schedule, and leading/participating in the construction and load in of all scenery.
• Mentor Students: Provide supportive hands‑on supervision and mentorship to BFA Design/Technology students in carpentry, rigging, and welding as required for the scenic build, according to industry standard safety protocols.
• Supervise students in daily shop hours; manage daily shop operation and student crews M-F and occasional weekends as the scenic build demands.
• Meet deadlines according to production schedule.
• Attend all technical/dress rehearsals to supervise all scenic elements, and be on‑call during all performances.
• Lead scenery & prop strike for each production.
• Collaborate closely with faculty and guest designers, stage managers, and production staff; attend weekly production meetings.

• Undergraduate degree in Theatre Design/Technology or similar degree.
• Proficient in scenic construction, drafting, basic rigging, and scene shop safety.
• Strong leadership and communication skills with a passion for mentoring undergraduate students in a fast‑paced professional training environment.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Otterbein University’s achievement of academic excellence depends on its commitment to inclusion and belonging. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates. Otterbein University is an EEO Employer.