Assistant Technical Director Job at Court Theatre in Chicago

Department: Court Theatre Production Department
Position: Assistant Technical Director
Classification: Year-Round, Full Time, Benefits-Eligible, Hourly/Non-Exempt
Reports to: Director of Production

The Assistant Technical Director is responsible for working with the Technical Director in the execution of all theatrical scenery and special effects for all Court Theatre productions. While primarily a M-F 9-5:30 schedule, evening/weekend hours will sometimes be required. Some portions of this job may be done remotely, but the Assistant Technical Director will be required to work in-person at Court Theatre’s administrative offices, theatre, and production center regularly.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Under the Technical Director’s leadership, implement the scenery and special effects needed for all Court Theatre productions.
• Assist in producing construction and installation drawings for scenic elements.
• Contribute ideas and technical solutions regarding schedule, scale, and feasibility of scenic elements during the drafting and construction process. Engineer creative solutions to address challenges within the constraints of time and resources.
• Construct and install scenic elements and special effects as assigned. Create CNC router files and operate the machine as needed.
• Assist in scheduling and supervising work for build, load-in, technical rehearsals and load-outs.
• Coordinate day-to-day activities with Scene Shop Foreperson, providing clear goals and priorities for the carpentry team.
• Collaborate with other technical departments to ensure smooth workflow. Instruct crew in the proper operation of scenic elements.
• Perform routine repair and maintenance on running shows.
• Attend staff meetings, work calls, production meetings, technical rehearsals, and previews as necessary.
• Coordinate work schedule with Technical Director so all Court technical rehearsals are staffed by a member of the scenery team. Serve in a leadership role of the scenery department at technical rehearsals. Develop a rapport with the scenic designer and receive notes from them.
• Source and purchase scenic materials. Track and reconcile all scenery-related expenses promptly.
• Maintain accurate inventory of stock scenery, soft goods, tools and supplies.
• With Technical Director, oversee maintenance and upkeep of scene shop, company van, and stage. Perform routine maintenance on shop tools and equipment.
• With the Technical Director, maintain best practices regarding construction, health and safety, and labor guidelines. Lead by example, setting a positive attitude and prioritizing a healthy work environment.
• With the Director of Production, liaise with University of Chicago regarding general maintenance of the stage and scene shops.
• Work with Production Staff to open and lock theatre and/or production center on a daily basis.
• Support the production department with other duties as assigned by Technical Director or Director of Production.
• Engage with and support Court’s efforts to become an anti-racist organization where people of marginalized identities can feel safe and flourish.

Required Technical Knowledge and Skills:

• Knowledge of general and specialized theatrical set construction techniques including stage carpentry, welding, interpreting and developing technical drawings, rigging, and fabrication of special effects.
• Experience drafting with AutoCAD in 2D and 3D (preferred).
• Experience operating a CNC router.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office, Windows, and basic file sharing concepts.
• Willingness to learn and expand capabilities in all areas of Technical Production.
• Experience driving trucks (<25’) and forklifts.
• Experience leading a team of 3 or more.
• A leader who sets a positive tone for the work environment and demonstrates a strong spirit of collaboration, creativity, and respect.
• Creative problem-solving skills and ability to research new techniques/materials/solutions.
• Works well both independently and as part of a team, as well as leading teams.
• Fine attention to detail and demonstrated commitment to quality.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and to navigate shifting and competing priorities with patience and diplomacy.
• Forward-thinking team member who works to anticipate problems.
• Ability to organize and communicate information clearly, both verbally and in writing.
• Enthusiasm for working in a collaborative artistic environment.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements:

• Able to lift, push, pull or otherwise maneuver up to 50lbs repeatedly.
• Able to stand or walk for long periods of time.
• Able to work in dusty, noisy, and low-light environments.
• Able to work at heights, on ladders or mechanical lifts.
• Able to safely operate a motor vehicle, box truck, and forklift.
• Willingness and ability to work some evenings and weekends.

Education, Experience, and Certifications:

• College or university degree in related field + three years experience working in a professional theatre scene shop and/or related fabrication field.
• Leadership experience managing a crew of 3 or more.
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record.

Required Documents: Resume, Cover Letter, Three references.

To Apply:
External candidates must apply online through the UChicago employment portal at:
https://www.uchicago.edu/jobs/
Search University Staff Opportunities, Posting #JR27918
Internal candidates (including temporary or student employees), should apply through their personal Workday site, and not through the External Job Site.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status or status as an individual with disability.

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process may contact Human Resources by calling 773-834-1841 or by emailing recruitment@uchicago.edu with their request.

About Court Theatre:

Now in its 70th season, the Tony Award-winning Court Theatre reimagines classic theatre to illuminate our current times. In residence at the University of Chicago and on Chicago’s historic South Side, we engage our audiences with intimate and provocative experiences that inspire deeper exploration of the enduring questions that confront humanity and connect us as people.

Court Theatre defines classic theatre as texts from any culture, tradition, or era that resonate throughout time and speak to our present moment. Court produces approximately 5 shows per year on an intimate, 250-seat thrust stage.

Court Theatre is committed to engaging, with equity and intention, the communities of which we are a part: the South Side of Chicago, the University of Chicago, and the local and national theatre community, including Court’s own staff, freelance technicians, and guest artists. Court is dedicated to becoming an anti-racist organization and creating an environment where people of marginalized identities can feel safe and flourish.

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