Theatre Lab Technician — Scenic Construction & Mentoring

University of Southern California; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

USC School of Dramatic Arts seeks a Technical Theatre Lab Production Technician (Arts Laboratory Specialist) to join its Production team in a full-time, on-ground role. The Tech Theatre Lab supports multiple dramatic productions and provides advanced scenic construction, fabrication, and shop management.

The successful candidate will supervise 20-30 student workers, mentor learners, and ensure safe, efficient operations of the TTL.

Qualifications

• BA or BFA in Theatre, Technical Theatre, Theatre Production, or related field; or equivalent professional experience in theatrical production.
• 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 artistic integrity, safety, 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 the operation, maintenance, and enhancement of shop equipment, tools, and facilities.
• 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 theatrical tools, equipment, and production techniques.
• Provide guidance and instruction in scenic construction methods and shop practices.
• Foster a collaborative learning environment that supports student growth and professional development.
• Assist with budgeting, project estimates, and resource planning.

Skills

Mentoring students

Team collaboration

Project management

Safety compliance

Education

BA/BFA in Theatre or related field

Equivalent professional experience

Tools

Rigging systems

Woodworking tools

Metal fabrication tools

Welding

Job description

USC School of Dramatic Arts seeks a Technical Theatre Lab Production Technician (Arts Laboratory Specialist) to join its Production team in a full-time, on-ground role. The Tech Theatre Lab supports multiple dramatic productions and provides advanced scenic construction, fabrication, and shop management.

The successful candidate will supervise 20-30 student workers, mentor learners, and ensure safe, efficient operations of the TTL.