Properties Artisan

The purpose of this position would be to acquire, construct, maintain, and inventory all props both rented and owned throughout the entire production season. This position would be responsible for design, construction, maintaining and account for existing props as well as the acquisition of props from off-campus warehouses, etc. This position would work closely with the Department Chair, various directors of the department production, the Production Manager, Technical Director and relevant designers in determining what props are required and the artistic direction that props will provide as well as insuring that props are available and ready for use. This position would be responsible for insuring that all props are returned to the appropriate places in a timely manner.

Position Specific Responsibilities/Accountabilities

• Obtaining or constructing all props (set, hand and decorative) for all productions of the LMU Theatre Arts Department season.

• Organizing and supervising the process for procuring and running all props in performance from initial rehearsal props through strike of every production, including the oversight of student procurement/construction and running crews. The Properties Master, along with the Technical Director, is responsible for transporting, retrieving and returning properties requiring use of the University truck.

• Maintaining in good working condition and repairing (if necessary) all props used during rehearsals and performances and supervising the strike of props along with the Technical Director when the show closes. The Properties Master is responsible for returning and/or storing all props after the strike of a show in a timely manner to prevent late fees and/or damage.

• Managing the inventory of departmental owned props (set, hand and decorative) through organization of storage, computerized inventory control and supervised access/rental of departmental properties.

• Work closely with the director and relevant designers in determining which props (set, hand and decorative) and artistic characteristics/historical period are required for any given production and work closely with the Technical Director in determining methods of procuring and/or constructing the props within budget. The Properties Master will prepare preliminary and final prop lists and share them with all members of the production team as they develop.

• Attend all production meetings and work with The Technical Director, Production Manager, and student crew in coordination of props needed during production.

• In periods when the above duties have been completed or require less time than the hourly limits of the position, the Properties Master may assist the Technical Director in other, non-prop, related construction and/or organizational activities. Approval from the Chair for such work is required. The supervisor (Chair) may also assign or request the Properties Master perform other duties as needed.

• Represent LMU within the greater Los Angeles community and maintain good working relationships with prop rental houses, film studios, theatres and theatre companies, etc.

• The Supervisor of the Property Master is the Theatre Arts Chair. The Property Master may also be called upon to perform other duties as assigned or requested by department chair or Technical Director.

Loyola Marymount University Expectations

Exhibit behavior that supports the mission, vision, and values of the university. Communicate and employ interpersonal actions that model high standards of professional, responsible, accountable, and ethical conduct. Demonstrate a commitment to outstanding customer service.

Requisite Qualifications

• Minimum of a high school diploma and a BA, BFA or MFA degree or proven professional experience in properties preferred. Knowledge and experience working in theatrical environment, the building and procuring of props required.
• Minimum of two years experience in progressively responsible positions.
• Demonstrated knowledge in the areas of: property design, manufacture, procuring and construction. Knowledge of theatre design, set design, and woodcraft preferred, as well as a demonstrated understanding of and sensitivity to historical periods and ornamentation.
• Demonstrated imagination and ingenuity in problem solving as related to the smaller scale and complexity of properties.
• Must be knowledgeable of environmental safety and fire codes.
• Aptitude and interest in working with students, willingness to train students in property design, construction and procurement.
• Requires valid California driver’s license. Must maintain a “satisfactory” driving record as evidenced by DMV.
• Constantly required to sit, feel, use finger movement, speak clearly, hear conversation, and see near and far. Frequently required to stand and walk. Occasionally required to lift, carry and push up to 50 lbs., stoop, kneel, reach high and low, use depth perception.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of this position.

#HERC# #HEJ#

Staff Regular

Salary range

$17.88 – $24.90 Salary commensurate with education and experience. Loyola Marymount University, a Carnegie classified R2 institution in the mainstream of American Catholic higher education, seeks outstanding applicants who value its mission and share its commitment to inclusive excellence, the education of the whole person, and the building of a just society. LMU is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing an environment free from discrimination and harassment as defined by federal, state and local law. We invite all persons in the full diversity of their being, life experience, and beliefs to apply. (Visit www.lmu.edu for more information.)