Technical Director

JOB OVERVIEW

Under the supervision of the Director of Production, the Utah Symphony Utah Opera (USUO) Technical Director (TD) is the point person for ensuring the highest levels of professionalism, safety, and organization are met in all USUO opera productions and activities of the Utah Opera Scenic Studios.  This individual must maintain a focused balance between technical expertise and interpersonal leadership skills.  We expect a highly competent and proactive individual capable of overseeing all technical aspects of productions including scenic construction, load-ins and load-outs, lighting, sound, and stage machinery, to ensure artistic visions are realized safely and within budget.  The TD has the privilege, pride, and responsibility of managing an exciting team of individuals and a space capable of building, storing, and renting beautiful sets for opera production.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE

• Supervise Technical Department staff, including Prop Master, Scenic Charge Artist, Head Carpenter/Shop Foreman, and IATSE staff.
• Prepare and draft all technical drawings for productions, construction, and rentals.
• Prepare, coordinate, and supervise all personnel, stagehands, equipment and services related to physical production.
• Prepare and supervise the load-in/load-out of all sets and props, and technical aspects of rehearsal and run of show in performance venues.
• Adapt and adjust sets as needed.
• Manage rehearsals and run of show.
• Serve as USUO’s opera representative with IATSE; manage crew calls, approve payrolls, assist in contract negotiations, and ensure contract adherence.
• Develop, advise on, and track budgets for all technical department activities.
• Supervise all activities of the scenic studio, including inventory, improvements, maintenance of the equipment, and the safety of its employees.
• Assist and advise Director of Production in promoting, negotiating, and managing contracts for scenery rentals.
• Supervise the scheduling and load-in/out of scenery rentals.
• Serve as or assign show tech on scenery rentals, ensuring partners and spaces are capable of hosting and managing USUO-owned properties.
• Advise on and analyze future build projects, rebuilds, and stock inventory.
• Shop vehicle maintenance including fork lift and pickup truck.
• Consult and assist symphony operations teams on USUO productions, Summer Festival and events.
• Other duties or special projects as assigned.

DESIRED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILLS

• MFA in theater or related field and 5 years’ progressive experience.
• Proficient in AutoCAD, VCarve or CNC programming equivalent; knowledge of additional drafting tools desired.
• Experience and/or working knowledge of theatrical safety protocols and systems. Understanding of rigging, carpentry, props, electrics, and sound.
• Highly developed organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to lead teams effectively.
• Proven ability to collaborate with artistic staff and colleagues.
• Ability to work nights and weekends as needed for productions.
• Self-motivated with excellent time management and the ability to prioritize.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Remain stationary for long periods of time and stand occasionally.
• Ability to climb ladders and work at heights.
• Frequent lifting, bending, stooping, crawling, balancing, and twisting.
• Ability to safely operate hand and power tools.
• Reliable transportation and valid driver’s license required.
• Ability to safely drive USUO vehicles, including a box truck.
• Occasional need to travel on company business to different locations.
• Ability to move up to 50 pounds.

SALARY RANGE:

Pay begins at $80,000-$85,000/year

TO APPLY:

Please apply online @ www.usuo.org/employment. Application materials should include a submit cover letter and résumé. Applications with a cover letter will be prioritized.