Technical Theatre Supervisor

Millikin University; Illinois; On-site; USD 40,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Production Technician Supervisor to lead a vibrant team in a dynamic educational environment. This full-time role involves overseeing students in the technical aspects of theatre production, including lighting, sound, and scenic construction. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in theatrical techniques and the ability to mentor students across various skill levels. Join a passionate community dedicated to fostering creativity and excellence in the performing arts, where your expertise will significantly impact the next generation of artists. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a rich tradition of artistic expression and technical innovation.

Benefits

Tuition Waiver

Full Benefits Package

Flexible Work Schedules

Professional Development Opportunities

Qualifications

• Two years of supervisory experience in theatrical lighting, sound, or scenic.
• Ability to work well with students and train them in technical theatre.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and instruct students in sound and lighting equipment maintenance.
• Oversee students in scenic studio construction and installation.

Skills

Theatrical Lighting

Sound Design

Scenic Construction

MIG Welding

Rigging Techniques

Computer Assisted Design

Communication Skills

Supervisory Skills

Education

BA or BFA in Theatre

Professional Experience

Tools

Lighting Consoles

Power Tools

Hand Tools

16-foot Box Truck

Job description

The Millikin University School of Theatre and Dance is accepting applications for a full-time staff position in Technical Theatre to begin in August 2025. Millikin is a small, private, comprehensive university of approximately 1800 students located in Decatur, Illinois. The nationally recognized School of Theatre and Dance is a vibrant and highly visible component of the campus community serving 160 students in five-degree programs including a BA in Theatre and BFAs in Acting, Design and Production, Musical Theatre, and Stage Management. The school is housed in a new $29 million facility, the Center for Theatre and Dance, which opened in 2020. This position is replacing a vacancy.

Contract: 10 months

Working Relationships:

Reports to: Production Manager, Technical Director, and Lighting Supervisor

Works Closely with: Theatre & Dance Faculty, Staff, Students, and Guest Designers

Directly Supervises: Students

Job Summary: The Production Technician Supervisor works on five to six large-scale productions each season and must have the ability to direct and teach students efficiently within a fast-paced schedule.

• Instructing and supervising students in the repair and maintenance of all sound inventory and equipment
• Planning, implementing, and instructing students in the installation and setup of all sound equipment in collaboration with student or guest designers.
• Supervising and instructing students in the safe use of all tools and equipment used in the execution of the sound design.

Scenic Support

• Overseeing students in the scenic studio in the construction, installation, and strike of scenery as directed by the Technical Director.
• Training and supervising students in the use of time, scenic studio tools and materials.
• Other duties as assigned by the Technical Director.

Electrics Support

• Instructing and supervising students in the repair and maintenance of all lighting inventory and equipment, including fixtures, cables, effects, power distribution, dimmers, networking and lighting control consoles.
• Planning, implementing, and instructing students in the hang, cabling, and focus of all lighting equipment.
• Supervising and instructing students in the safe use of all tools and equipment used in the execution of the lighting design.
• Documenting and tracking of all circuiting, addressing, and system configuration in cooperation with the Lighting Designer.

Minimum Position Qualifications:

• BA or BFA in Theatre or related field or equivalent professional experience
• Two years of supervisory experience/professional theatrical lighting, sound, and/or scenic experience
• Valid driver’s license

Specialized Knowledge and Skills (required):

• Ability to work well with students of all skill levels and to train and supervise students at all levels of experience in lighting, sound, and scenic construction
• Ability to drive a 16 foot box truck
• Knowledge and skill in MIG welding practices
• Knowledge of industry standard rigging techniques
• Knowledge of, and experience in all aspects of theatrical lighting, including the safe use of all associated tools and equipment
• Knowledge of, and experience in all aspects of scenic construction, including the safe use of power tools, carpentry and welding
• Ability to read and follow lighting plots and theatre design and construction drawings
• Demonstrated knowledge of computer assisted design/drafting
• Ability to organize work and prioritize tasks
• Knowledge of ETC Lighting consoles and lighting fixtures
• Knowledge of entertainment networking that includes Dante, Madi, MSC and OSC

Specialized Knowledge and Skills (preferred):

• Participation and/or membership in relevant professional organizations and activities
• Ability to communicate effectively with personnel within all aspects of the production process
• Experience working with chain hoists, motors and other mechanical equipment
• Understanding of sound design and production and/or projection design and production

Manual Dexterity:

• Dexterity to operate common hand, power and stationary tools
• Dexterity to operate a keyboard and tools related to lighting

Physical Effort:

• Ability to work with heights and lift a minimum of 50 pounds
• Frequently lifting 25 lbs. or more
• Typically standing or walking
• Typically bending, crouching or stooping
• Using tools requiring high dexterity
• Hearing and visual acuity within normal range.
• Ability to climb and work from a ladder.

Working Conditions:

• High noise environment; high dust
• Requires extensive safety training
• Exposure to moving machinery or equipment
• Exposures to chemicals
• Alternative or flexible work schedules, which may require nights and weekends

To apply, please submit a cover letter, resume and contact information of three professional references. Employment and first day of work is contingent upon successful completion of background check. Millikin University is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates from traditionally underrepresented groups in this field are encouraged to apply. Beyond meeting fully its legal obligations for non-discrimination, Millikin University is committed to building a diverse and inclusive community where members from all backgrounds can live, learn, and thrive. Millikin offers a competitive salary and full benefits package, including eligibility for tuition waiver.