Temporary Technical Director, Rake's Progress

Boston Conservatory at Berklee; Boston (MA); Hybrid; USD 36,000 - 54,000; Part time

Job summary

Boston Conservatory at Berklee seeks a temporary Technical Director for the off-campus opera, Rake’s Progress, at the Wimberly Theatre. The TD collaborates with multiple teams, oversees scenic construction, evaluates design feasibility, and ensures timely production delivery.

Remote work is possible with on-site needs late March to mid-April 2027. Responsibilities include coordinating with the Production Coordinator, venue staff, and scenic designer, preparing drawings, and managing notes from

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Theater or equivalent; or related experience.
• At least three years as a professional Technical Director.
• Experience advising/supervising college students preferred.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Plan, organize, and execute all production phases per schedule.
• Oversee all scenic needs and calls throughout production.
• Disseminate scenic and technical information, including costs, at meetings.
• Ensure staffing for appropriate calls with Production Coordinator.
• Maintain safety and functionality of equipment and facilities.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Teamwork

Time management

Problem solving

Adaptability

Driver's license

Education

Bachelor's degree

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)