Temporary Technical Director, Rake's Progress

Berklee College of Music; Boston (MA); Hybrid; USD 74,501,000 - 113,184,000; Part time

Job summary

Berklee College of Music is seeking a temporary Technical Director for the Boston Conservatory at Berklee production of Rake’s Progress. This role will lead scenic and technical planning, coordinate with venue staff, and ensure timely delivery of construction drawings and builds.

The position requires strong leadership and communication, with flexibility for remote work and on-site presence as needed. The role supports the Performance Services department, working closely with the staff TD,

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Theater or similar field, or equivalent work experience.
• At least three years of experience as a professional Technical Director.
• Experience working with college students in advisory/supervisory roles preferred.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all scenic needs and work calls throughout the full production process.
• Prepare and disseminate scenic and technical information and changes at production meetings.
• Create and disseminate construction drawings, ground plans, and sections.
• Collaborate with Scenic Designer and Shop to ensure deadlines and budget.

Skills

Troubleshooting

Leadership

Collaboration

Communication

Time management

Driving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Theater or related field

Tools

AutoCAD

Vectorworks

QLab

Keynote

Job description

Job Description: The temporary Technical Director, at the Boston Conservatory at Berklee (BCB) serves as Technical Director for the assigned off-campus opera, Rake’s Progress, held at the Wimberly Theatre in April 2027. As part of the Performance Services department, the TD reports to the Assistant Director of Production, collaborates closely with the Staff Technical Director, off-campus venue staff, Stage Management, and the full production team. The TD will work directly with the Scenic Designer and outside shop building the scenery, to ensure deadlines are met, and all information is disseminated accurately, and aligns with schedule and production needs. They will evaluate the set design for feasibility and budgetary compliance, and oversee and/or participate in the construction of designs. This is a temporary, hourly position that is anticipated to work through May 3, 2027. Communication will begin in the fall, while the design is being developed. Much of this position’s expected work may be done remotely, with on site presence beginning end of March 2027 - mid April as needed.

RAKE’S PROGRESS TENTATIVE SCHEDULE:

• Scenic Load In dates held: March 30, March 31, and April 1, 2027
• Spacing: April 8 & 9, 2027 (TD/SM Walkthrough @ 5pm, then Cast Walkthrough @ 7pm)
• Tech: Saturday, April 10 and Sunday, April 11, 2027 from 10am - 9pm
• All Department Notes and Dress Rehearsals in the evenings of: April 12, 13, 14, 2027
• Performances: April 15 @ 7:30pm, April 16 @ 7:30pm, April 17 @ 7:30pm, April 18 @ 1:00pm
• Strike to follow final performance. Scenic pick up on Tuesday, April 20, 2027

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Ensure all phases of each production are thoroughly planned, organized, effectively executed, in line with artistic goals and overall production schedule, initiating corrective action when necessary
• Oversee all scenic needs and work calls throughout the full production process
• Prepare and disseminate scenic and technical information and changes, including costs, at production meetings and to all production stakeholders.
• In conjunction with the Production Coordinator and Venue Staff, ensure staffing for appropriate calls
• Maintain and coordinate for the safety, accessibility, and functionality of department facilities and equipment
• Create and disseminate construction drawings, ground plan and section drawings, along with other technical drawings as needed
• Manage and disseminate notes from technical rehearsals and represent Technical Direction team as assigned
• Collaborate with the Technical Direction team in technical planning and drafting
• Communication with Scenic Designer and Shop

MINIMUM JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Theater or similar field, or equivalent work experience
• At least three years of experience as a professional Technical Director required
• Experience working with college students in an advisory, supervisory, and/or educational capacity preferred
• Excellent written and oral communication skills

KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED:

• Advanced experience in scenic construction and rigging
• Advanced ability to read and produce draftings/ construction drawings
• Ability to work independently
• Familiarity with applicable OSHA and EPA standards
• Experience with QLab for video and Keynote preferred
• Working knowledge of standard theatrical practices and procedures
• Proficiency in stagecraft, knots, theatrical construction methods, light metalwork and fabrication
• Proficiency in computer-aided drafting (AutoCAD and/or Vectorworks)
• Some knowledge of theatrical lighting systems, and audio-visual equipment, including projections and QLab, is preferred, but not required

SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Strong troubleshooting, leadership, and collaborative skills
• Excellent communication and time management skills required
• Valid Driver’s License

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead overhire labor crews
• Ensure safe working environment for all reports

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Indoor environments, some with low light: stages, backstage areas, dressing rooms, costume shop, storage spaces, prop and scenery storage, office spaces, workshop, control booth
• Seated and standing positions
• Stairs and ladders

SPECIAL WORKING CONDITIONS, PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS, ETC:

• Nights and weekends required
• Must be able to lift objects of up to 50 pounds
• Must be able to climb ladders up to 24 feet

Hiring Range: $26.00-$39.50/hr; salary dependent on relevant experience and education.

This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” employment relationship.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Equal Employment Opportunity at Berklee:

We support an inclusive workplace where everyone excels based on personal merit, qualifications, experience, ability, and job performance. Berklee affirms that inequality is detrimental to our faculty, staff, students, and the communities we serve. Our goal is to make lasting change through our actions. Berklee is committed to providing fair and equitable consideration of all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, ancestry, age, national origin, place of birth, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, genetic information, or status as a member of the armed forces or veteran of the armed forces, or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law. As part of this commitment, Berklee will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact the Human Resources Team at [e-mail] or call 617-747-2375.

*Currently enrolled Berklee students are not permitted to apply for staff or faculty positions.*

Employee Type: Temporary (Fixed Term)

As the premier destination for the study of contemporary music and the performing arts, Berklee stands as the culmination of two pioneering institutions—Boston Conservatory and Berklee College of Music—each recognized for its global reach and cultural impact. Berklee is a place where artists come together to innovate, and where artistic and cultural diversity is embraced and celebrated. We strive to reflect these values in our inclusive hiring practices, creating a welcoming and equitable process that embraces diverse perspectives and fosters equity and opportunity for all. Guided by our fundamental values, our unified mission and vision define Berklee’s core purpose and help us envision the positive influence we can have on each other, our students, our communities, and the broader world.

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