Technical Director - Middle School Play

Key School Inc; Georgetown East (MD); On-site; USD 15,000 - 18,000; Part time

Job summary

Key School is seeking a part-time Technical Director for the 2026-2027 academic year to manage the technical administration, safety, equipment maintenance, and operational execution of the Middle School Play.

Reporting to the Theater Director, the TD translates artistic visions into safe, physical realities while mentoring student crews and coordinating lighting, sound, and stage tech from pre-production through strike.

Qualifications

• Experience in lighting, sound, or basic stage carpentry is highly valued in educational or professional settings.
• Educational background in theater technology is welcome but hands-on experience is equally valued.
• Ability to teach technical theater concepts to students of varying ages and skill levels.

Responsibilities

• Manage all technical aspects of the Middle School production from pre-production through strike.
• Oversee hanging, circuiting, focusing, and programming of lighting fixtures; supervise or execute lighting and sound designs.
• Coordinate setup, operation, and strike of technical equipment in multi-use or shared spaces.
• Maintain safety standards and regulatory compliance across backstage areas, scenic shops, and stages.
• Train student crews in safe operation of equipment and backstage protocols; supervise rehearsals and performances.

Skills

Lighting

Sound

Stage Carpentry

Teaching / Instruction

Communication

Education

Theater technology degree

Tools

Lighting consoles

Sound systems

Rigging equipment

Job description

Position Title: Technical Director - Middle School PlayFLSA: Part-Time, Exempt (Seasonal/Academic Year)Effective Dates: March 1, 2026 – June 1, 2027Position PurposeKey School is seeking a part-time Technical Director for the 2026-2027 academic year. Reporting to the Theater Director, the successful candidate will be responsible for the technical administration, safety, equipment maintenance, and operational execution of the Middle School Play. Operating within the performing arts department, the Technical Director translates artistic visions into safe, physical realities while acting as an educator and mentor to student crew members.Essential Duties & ResponsibilitiesProduction & Lighting ExecutionManage all technical aspects of the Middle School production from pre-production through strike.Oversee the hanging, circuiting, focusing, and programming of intelligent and conventional lighting fixtures.Supervise or execute lighting and sound designs, ensuring all cues are accurately recorded into the control consoles.Coordinate the setup, operation, and strike of technical equipment in multi-use or shared campus spacesSafety, Compliance & Risk ManagementMaintain strict safety standards and regulatory compliance across all backstage areas, scenic shops, and stages.Conduct routine safety inspections of rigging, lighting plots, and electrical equipment.Ensure a safe working environment for students, staff, and guest artists during all build phases, technical rehearsals, and performances.Student Instruction & MentorshipTrain student crews in the safe operation of theatrical equipment, tools, and backstage protocols.Supervise student crews during rehearsals and live performances, fostering a collaborative learning environment that models professional industry standards.Ideal CandidateInstructional Skills: Ability to effectively teach technical theater concepts to students of varying age groups and skill levels.Problem-Solving: Strong critical thinking and adaptability during live technical environments.Communication: Clear, professional collaboration with the Director of Theater, school faculty, and student actors.Schedule & Attendance RequirementsThis 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 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 2026–2027 production slate.2026–2027 Production:Middle School Play (Title TBD): Tech/Performances and strike: May 23–28, 2027Qualifications:Experience: A practical background in areas such as lighting, sound, or basic stage carpentry is highly valued, whether gained through professional work, community theater, or educational settings.Education: A degree in theater technology, design, or production is welcome, but we equally value equivalent hands-on experience and a passion for the craft.Physical & Environmental DemandsMust be comfortable working at heights (ladders, personnel lifts, or catwalks).Ability 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).CompensationCompensation is paid at a rate of $1,500 for this production.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.