Technical Director

DESCRIPTION

Title: Technical Director

Department: Production Department

Reports To: Production Management

Supervises: Assistant Technical Director, IATSE Local 1 crew

Internal Contacts: Production Staff

External Contacts: Overhire crew, guest artists, designers, theatrical equipment vendors including lighting, rigging, scene shops

Employment Status: Part-time, non-exempt

Hourly Rate: $52.45

Position Summary

The Technical Director (TD) serves as the lead technical authority for four mainstage theatrical productions per year. This role is responsible for advancing, planning, and executing all scenic and technical elements in collaboration with Production Management, designers, and union crew.

The TD ensures that all productions are realized safely, efficiently, and within scope, budget, and schedule, while supporting MSM’s mission to provide a professional and educational performance environment.

Job Responsibilities

• Lead the development of the technical plan for all assigned productions, including load-in, notes sessions, and strike

o Create detailed plans and task lists to maximize efficiency and provide clarity to Production Management and crew

• Collaborate with Production Managers and department heads to align staffing, scheduling, and resources

• Identify cost-effective solutions while maintaining high production quality

• Maintain accurate awareness of venue capabilities, limitations, and infrastructure

• Assess scenic designs for feasibility, cost, and alignment with institutional resources

• Collaborate closely with scenic designers as a creative and technical partner

• Participate actively in bid review and award processes and serve as the primary point of contact with scenic shops

• Ensure adherence to all safety standards, institutional policies, and union regulations

• Lead IATSE Local 1 crew during load-in, technical rehearsals, and strike

• Ensure compliance with the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) and co-manage work rules in collaboration with Production Management

• Set the tone for the crew through leadership, professionalism, and mentorship

• Delegate tasks effectively while fostering skill development and learning

• Comply with MSM administrative policies (including timekeeping and attendance practices)

• Build strong working relationships across departments and with external partners

• Prioritize MSM productions and demonstrates reliability and accountability

Pre-Production Requirements

• Attend all production meetings and actively contribute to planning discussions

• Maintain regular check-ins with Production Managers during pre-production periods

• Participate in hybrid pre-production processes, including both on-site and remote work

• Active participation in key production timelines (typically October–December and February–April)

Core Competencies

• Strong leadership and supervisory skills

• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities

• High level of organization and attention to detail

• Ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities

• Professional, even-tempered, and solution-oriented approach

• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills

• Ability to balance creativity with practical execution

Qualifications

• BA or BFA in Technical Theatre or related field, or equivalent professional experience

• Minimum 3 years of experience as a Technical Director, Head Carpenter, or equivalent

• Demonstrated experience working with union crews (IATSE preferred)

• Experience as a department head (e.g., Production Electrician, Audio, Rigging, Properties, Video)

• Background in teaching, mentoring, or training in an academic environment

• Proficiency in Vectorworks CAD and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel)

Contact Information

Send letter of application and résumé including three references to:

Chanel Byas

Production Manager

[email protected]

No phone calls, please.

Equal employment and equal educational opportunity have been and will continue to be fundamental principles at Manhattan School of Music, where employment and enrollment are based upon personal capabilities and qualifications without discrimination or harassment because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, the status of being transgender, age, national origin, marital status, citizenship or veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. Manhattan School of Music does not permit retaliation against individuals who oppose a discriminatory practice or participate in an investigation.

SALARY

$52.45 – $52.45 per hour

• UNION
  IATSE Local 1 crew