Technical Director, Theatre & Dance Production

James Madison University; Harrisonburg (VA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 63,000; Full time

Job summary

James Madison University invites applications for a full-time Technical Director in the School of Theatre and Dance. The 12-month Administrative & Professional position oversees the scene shop, production budgets, and coordination with faculty and guest artists. Teaching opportunities in technical direction may be available.

The role requires strong leadership, safety oversight, and the ability to mentor students while accommodating evenings/weekends in a dynamic theatre program.

Qualifications

• MFA in Technical Direction, Theatre Production, or related field, or Bachelor's with substantial experience.
• Professional experience in technical direction or scenic production.
• Ability to lead carpentry, welding, rigging, scenic painting, properties.
• Proficiency with Vectorworks or AutoCAD for construction docs.
• Experience supervising student crews or staff.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead construction, load-in, and strike for STAD productions.
• Develop construction plans, schedules, and budgets.
• Collaborate with designers, managers, and guest artists.
• Maintain scene shop and equipment; ensure safety.
• Mentor students and coordinate with production staff.
• Support non-standard work schedule including evenings/weekends.

Skills

Technical direction

Carpentry

Rigging

Scenic painting

CAD drafting

Budgeting

Student supervision

Leadership

Safety protocols

Education

MFA in Technical Direction

Bachelor's degree with experience

Tools

Vectorworks

AutoCAD

Job description

James Madison University invites applications for a full-time Technical Director in the School of Theatre and Dance. The 12-month Administrative & Professional position oversees the scene shop, production budgets, and coordination with faculty and guest artists. Teaching opportunities in technical direction may be available.

The role requires strong leadership, safety oversight, and the ability to mentor students while accommodating evenings/weekends in a dynamic theatre program.