Theatrical Carpenter/Technician/Scenic Painter

University of Minnesota; Saint Paul (MN); On-site; USD 32,000 - 40,000; Part time

Job summary

The University of Minnesota, Department of Theatre Arts and Dance, has occasional need for part-time, temporary, supplemental, hourly theatre arts scenery shop carpenters, technicians, or scenic painters. This pool is for the 2026/27 academic year; openings occur as needed.

Hires typically support one production at a time, though multiple productions may occur. Pay is $23.17 - $29.03 per hour; shifts vary by show.

Qualifications

• Some college training in theater or experience as a technician.
• Understanding of safe operation of hand, power, and pneumatic tools.
• Ability to repeatedly lift up to 60 pounds.
• Ability to climb ladders and work at heights.
• Ability to crawl and be on hands and knees for extended periods of time.
• Ability to read drafting and shop drawings.
• Ability to work independently and/or as part of a small group
• Must have a valid Class D driver's license and be able to drive a standard pickup truck.
• Ability to exercise good judgment, problem solve, and adapt to changing directions.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, calm/professional demeanor, sense of humor encouraged
• Must be able to pass a standard background check
• Previous paid experience in the area of specialization

Responsibilities

• Assist in the creation of scenic and stage elements for live theatre productions which can include scenic painting
• Work as directed to cut, shape, or carve different sized forms and erect or assemble pieces, such as flats, platforms and stairs.
• Read and interpret shop drawings and AutoCAD and VectorWorks drawings.
• Construct scenery.
• Develop cut lists.
• Use a variety of tools, processes, materials, and equipment in completing assigned projects.
• Assist in maintaining the safety and efficiency of all scene shop operations.
• Perform maintenance and repair of scene shop, tools, and stage facilities.
• Participate in the transportation, installation, strike, and disposal of scenery.
• Lead students of varying skill levels in the construction of theatrical scenic elements

Skills

Reading shop drawings

Safety awareness

Physical stamina

Communication skills

Team leadership

Problem solving

Driver's license

Adaptability

Experience in stage carpentry

Independent work

Education

Some college training in theater or experience as a technician

Tools

AutoCAD

VectorWorks

Job description

Job Details

Job ID 376150

Location Twin Cities

Job Family LR-Technical

Full/Part Time Part-Time

Regular/Temporary Regular

Job Code 4936

Employee Class AFSCME Unit 7 - Technical

About the Job

The University of Minnesota, Department of Theatre Arts and Dance, has occasional need for part-time, temporary, supplemental, hourly theatre arts scenery shop carpenters, technicians, or scenic painters. This does not constitute a posting for vacancies, but establishes a pool of applicants as openings occur during the 2026/27 academic year. Applications will not be acknowledged upon receipt. Applicants will only be contacted should an active opening occur during the academic year. Positions may be appointed during the 2026/27 academic year. Hires are typically made to assist in the creation of one production at a time, though individuals may be hired to work on several productions throughout the academic year.

• Unit 7 AFSCME Technical
• Salary and/or salary range: $23.17 - $29.03
• Shift and hours of work: Shift and hours of work vary depending on the show you're working on.
• Whether overtime or consecutive Sunday work are conditions of employment: Occasional weekend work and overtime is not likely.

Job Duties

• Assist in the creation of scenic and stage elements for live theatre productions which can include scenic painting
• Work as directed to cut, shape, or carve different sized forms and erect or assemble pieces, such as flats, platforms and stairs.
• Read and interpret shop drawings and AutoCAD and VectorWorks drawings.
• Construct scenery.
• Develop cut lists.
• Use a variety of tools, processes, materials, and equipment in completing assigned projects.
• Assist in maintaining the safety and efficiency of all scene shop operations.
• Perform maintenance and repair of scene shop, tools, and stage facilities.
• Participate in the transportation, installation, strike, and disposal of scenery.
• Lead students of varying skill levels in the construction of theatrical scenic elements

Required Qualifications

• Some college training in theater or experience as a technician.
• Understanding of safe operation of hand, power, and pneumatic tools.
• Ability to repeatedly lift up to 60 pounds.
• Ability to climb ladders and work at heights.
• Ability to crawl and be on hands and knees for extended periods of time.
• Ability to read drafting and shop drawings.
• Ability to work independently and/or as part of a small group
• Must have a valid Class D driver's license and be able to drive a standard pickup truck.
• Ability to exercise good judgment, problem solve, and adapt to changing directions.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, calm/professional demeanor, sense of humor encouraged
• Must be able to pass a standard background check
• Previous paid experience in the area of specialization

Preferred Qualifications

• Some college training in stage carpentry.
• More than one year professional stage scenery carpentry experience.
• Must demonstrate advanced ability in use of all theatrical carpentry equipment, including passing a skillset survey.
• Ability to work nights and weekends as necessary.
• Ability to drive a box truck
• Scenic automation experience.
• MIG welding/metal working experience.
• Work experience as a scenic painter

Pay and Benefits

Pay Ran ge: $23.17 - $29.03 per hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience.

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

About University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.