Theatre Lab Production Tech & Scenic Construction Lead

University of Southern California; Glendale (CA); On-site; USD 41,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

USC School of Dramatic Arts seeks a skilled Technical Theatre Lab Production Technician to join its Production team. This role focuses on advanced scenic construction, production implementation, and facility operations within a multi-stage learning environment.

The candidate will supervise 20–30 student workers, mentor emerging technicians, and oversee shop safety, budgeting, and equipment upgrades while supporting multiple productions annually.

Qualifications

• BA or BFA in Theatre, Technical Theatre, Theatre Production, or related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Several years of progressively responsible experience in theatre stagecraft, scenic construction, and theatrical production.
• Demonstrated expertise in theatrical scenery construction and implementation.
• Experience with theatrical stage equipment, counterweight rigging systems, and scenic automation.
• Advanced woodworking skills, including operation of portable and stationary woodworking equipment.
• Experience with metal fabrication and welding.

Responsibilities

• Support students, faculty, and guest designers in the realization of scenic designs for SDA productions.
• Construct, fabricate, and install scenic elements using woodworking and metal fabrication techniques.
• Implement student-designed production concepts while maintaining safety, artistic integrity, and budget considerations.
• Assist with load-ins, technical rehearsals, strikes, and production changeovers.
• Operate and maintain theatrical stage equipment, rigging systems, and scenic automation systems.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient Technical Theatre Lab environment.
• Oversee operation, maintenance, and enhancement of shop equipment, tools, and facilities.
• Ensure compliance with university safety policies and industry best practices.
• Plan for equipment upgrades and manage purchasing activities, including major equipment acquisitions.
• Monitor inventory, supplies, and production materials.
• Supervise and mentor approximately 20-30 student employees.
• Train students in safe and proper use of tools, equipment, and production techniques.
• Provide guidance in scenic construction methods and shop practices.
• Foster a collaborative learning environment that supports student growth.

Skills

Theatre production experience

Woodworking

Metal fabrication

Safety practices

Mentoring students

Education

BA/BFA in Theatre or related field

Equivalent professional experience

Tools

Woodworking tools

Metal fabrication equipment

Rigging systems

Scenic automation systems

Job description

USC School of Dramatic Arts seeks a skilled Technical Theatre Lab Production Technician to join its Production team. This role focuses on advanced scenic construction, production implementation, and facility operations within a multi-stage learning environment.

The candidate will supervise 20–30 student workers, mentor emerging technicians, and oversee shop safety, budgeting, and equipment upgrades while supporting multiple productions annually.