Technical Director

Position Summary:

The Technical Director at The Ruth and Nathan Hale Theater serves as the primary leader and connector across all technical departments, responsible for both the operational execution and the development of the people behind our productions. This role is as much about managing and empowering staff as it is about technical expertise. The Technical Director must be a skilled collaborator, creative problem-solver, and steady presence across a wide range of disciplines—set, lighting, sound, automation, and props. 

 

Working in close partnership with directors, designers, and production leadership, the Technical Director ensures that each production is delivered on time, within budget, and with excellence, while fostering a culture of respect, collaboration, and innovation. 

 

Duties & Responsibilities

Leadership & Personnel Management: 

  • Lead, mentor, and support department heads and technical staff across disciplines.
  • Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and solutions-oriented work environment. 
  • Act as a central problem-solver across departments, ensuring smooth communication and alignment. 
  • Empower staff to take ownership while providing thoughtful oversight and feedback. 
  • Assist department heads in the management of workloads, scheduling, morale, and conflict resolution within the production team. 

Technical Oversight & Project Management: 

  • Collaborate with directors, designers, and the Production Manager to understand and translate creative vision into executable plans. 
  • Oversee all technical elements of production including scenic, rigging, lighting, sound, media, automation, and props coordination. 
  • Create and maintain technical drawings and documentation. 
  • Coordinate technical rehearsals and integration of all production elements. 

Budget & Resource Management: 

  • Assist department heads in the development, management, and tracking of budgets for production materials and labor. 
  • Oversee purchasing, rentals, and use of technical resources. 
  • Ensure cost efficiency and fiscal responsibility across departments. 

Safety & Compliance: 

  • Uphold safety standards and regulatory compliance throughout all technical operations.
  • Conduct regular inspections and maintain a culture of safety and accountability. 

Maintenance & Facilities: 

  • Oversee maintenance and repair of production facilities and equipment. 
  • Implement systems for equipment tracking, inventory, and upkeep. 

Skills & Qualifications

Education & Experience: 

  • Bachelor's degree in Technical Theater or related field preferred. 
  • 5–7 years of technical theater experience, with at least 3 years in a supervisory role. 

Skills & Attributes: 

  • Exceptional leadership and interpersonal skills; proven ability to manage teams with care and clarity. 
  • Broad, working knowledge of theatrical disciplines including scenic construction, lighting, sound, rigging, media, automation, and wardrobe processes. 
  • Proficient in CAD drafting and project management tools. 
  • Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving abilities. 
  • Budget management and purchasing experience. 
  • Deep understanding of safety protocols and technical standards in live performance environments. 
  • Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and extended hours as needed. 

Compensation Guidelines:

Position Type: Full-Time, Salaried; Exempt

Hours to Work: 40+hrs. per week

Annual Compensation: $80,000-$90,000 (based on experience)

Benefits: Health Insurance, dental plans, 401k, life insurance, long & short-term disability, paid time off, and other company-specific benefits.

Direct Reports: Associate Technical Director, Assistant Technical Director, Head of Audio, Head of Lighting & Media, Head of Automation & Rigging, Props Supervisor

Fill out my online form.