Job Information
SUNY Cortland Technical Director in Cortland, New York
Technical Director Performing Arts SUNY Cortland
Position Summary: The Technical Director for the Performing Arts Department will manage and execute the planning, construction, and implementation of all scenic and technical elements for departmental theatre productions. This includes, but is not limited to, four productions per year, including two musicals, as well as supervision of additional events held in departmental theatre facilities. The Technical Director collaborates closely with faculty, guest artists, staff, and students to ensure productions are completed safely, on time, and within budget. This position includes significant physically demanding and hands on technical work in addition to planning and oversight responsibilities.
Salary: $52,500 + depending on experience (DOE)
Major Responsibilities: Production & Scenic Construction/Design Collaborate with directors and designers to provide input on the scope, scale, scheduling, and technical feasibility of scenic designs. Serve as the technical designer for all scenic elements of departmental productions. Select, order, and manage construction materials. Make independent, daily decisions to ensure timely completion of scenic elements. Complete occasional evening and weekend work as required by production schedules. Planning, Budgeting & Scheduling Plan and coordinate all aspects of scenic construction and installation. Prepare, review, and communicate labor and materials cost estimates. Manage the scenery budget and ensure compliance with institutional policies. Establish build priorities in collaboration with faculty, directors and designers. Supervision & Student Mentorship Hire, supervise, train, and evaluate student employees. Instruct student crews in safe practices for construction, load-in, and strike. Manage workflow, expectations, accountability, and quality standards for technical staff and student workers. Facilities, Equipment & Safety Maintain a clean, safe, and organized scene shop. Supervise storage, inventory, and maintenance of all scene shop tools and equipment. Oversee maintenance, inspection, and upkeep of onstage and backstage areas. Coordinate with the Facilities Department regarding theatre maintenance. Plan and supervise the repair, purchase, and upgrade of scene shop and stage equipment. Collaboration & Production Support Attend all production meetings and technical rehearsals. Participation in season planning and long-term production forecasting. Support all university events held in theatre facilities. Collaborate closely with the Production Manager to plan and coordinate the use of student crew members, including the assignment of roles and responsibilities, scheduling, and organization of workflows required for technical rehearsals and performances. Communicate effectively with faculty, guest artists, and staff to support production goals.
Required Qualifications: Associates degree in theatre or a related field; Professional or academic experience as a Technical Director, including scenic construction; Minimum of two years of supervisory experience in a theatre setting; Demonstrated proficiency as a carpenter, draftsman, welder, or theatre technician; Experience with rigging systems and mechanical devices (e.g., electric winches, turntables, pneumatic systems); Demonstrated fundamental understanding of lighting and sound design; and, Commitment to student-centered teaching and mentorship in an educational environment.
Preferred Qualifications: BA or BFA in Technical Theatre or a related field; Experience using AutoCAD and/or Vector works; and, Demonstrated proficiency with common software platforms (e.g., Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Adobe programs).