Associate Technical Director
Compensation Guidelines:
Position Type: Full-Time, Salaried; Exempt
Hours to Work: 40 hrs. per week, can vary based on production needs
Annual Compensation: $70,000-$80,000 Yearly; DOE
Benefits: Health Insurance, dental plans, 401k, life insurance, long & short-term disability, paid time off, and other company-specific benefits.
Position Summary:
The Associate Technical Director (ATD) supports the Technical Director by focusing on the design, engineering, and implementation of automated systems and specialized technical elements for all productions and events. This role serves as the organization’s primary resource for scenic automation, mechanical effects, and non-traditional technical projects that require advanced technical knowledge. The ATD also plays a vital leadership role during daily installation hours, ensuring scenic and automation elements are safely and accurately installed during load-ins and tech periods. This allows the Technical Director to focus on broader oversight while maintaining continuity and progress on-site.
Duties & Responsibilities
Automation & Engineering
- Design and implement scenic automation and motion control systems.
- Develop engineering solutions for complex scenic effects and mechanical systems.
- Build, test, and maintain automation equipment, controls, and infrastructure.
- Oversee the integration of automation into load-in, performance, and strike operations.
- Work closely with the Head of Automation and the Technical Director to ensure all systems meet safety and performance standards.
Daily Installation Oversight
- Supervise daytime load-in and technical installation of scenic and automation elements.
- Act as the on-site technical lead during shop and stage hours when the TD is unavailable.
- Coordinate with other departments to resolve technical issues during setup.
- Ensure all elements are installed according to drawings, specifications, and safety protocols.
- Track progress and communicate daily updates to the Technical Director.
Special Projects & Technical Innovation
- Serve as lead technical engineer for custom scenic builds and non-standard scenic elements.
- Collaborate with designers to interpret and execute creative vision through innovative solutions.
- Research and implement new materials, systems, and technologies that advance production capabilities.
- Document and archive special systems for future maintenance and reference.
Safety & Compliance
- Ensure all automation and special effects adhere to OSHA, ANSI, and internal safety standards.
- Assist in risk assessments for new systems and projects.
- Conduct training and documentation related to safe use of automated systems.
Support & Collaboration
- Act as a technical point of contact during design meetings related to automation or mechanical projects.
- Support the Technical Director and scenic team during load-in, rehearsals, and technical troubleshooting.
- Fill in as needed during production emergencies or when TD is unavailable.
Skills & Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in technical theater, mechanical engineering, or equivalent professional experience.
- 3+ years experience in theatrical automation, scenic engineering, or related technical field.
- Proficiency in automation systems (e.g., Creative Conners, Stagehand, Spikemark, etc.).
- Competency in CAD software (Vectorworks, AutoCAD) and mechanical design.
- Experience with rigging, pneumatics, motors, sensors, and control systems.
- Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.
- Strong understanding of theater safety practices and regulations.
- Ability to lift 50 lbs. and work at height.
Working Conditions
- Full-time, exempt position.
- Requires evening and weekend work during tech weeks and special events. Must be able to work in a fast-paced, physically demanding environment.
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled
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