Technical Supervisor

Job ID: 48069

Location: Evanston, Illinois

Department: SoC Wirtz Center for Perf Arts
Salary/Grade: EXS/6

Job Summary:

The Technical Supervisor is responsible for overseeing the planning, budgeting, execution, and installation of all scenic elements necessary for each production. He/She coordinates the areas of properties, paint, and scenery, and works closely with designers on each production. The Technical Supervisor is responsible for the safe use and maintenance of Center equipment and facilities. He/She is responsible for developing work schedules and assists in supervising the work of graduate assistants, undergraduate students, work study students, student crews and temporary hires. Responsibilities also include the acquisition of new equipment and maintenance of theatrical facilities within the Wirtz Center.

Please note: 60 to 80 hour work weeks during technical rehearsal period of production (3-4 per quarter) which includes weekend and evening hours. Working environment hazards include heights, dust and fumes from scenic construction, lifting at least 50 pounds, operation and maintenance of electrical and motorized equipment, risk of construction accidents, use of power tools including rotating blade saws. Frequently responsible for crews working in several different areas of the building simultaneously.

Specific Responsibilities:

• PRODUCTION PREPRATION: Read scripts in order to have a knowledge of the needs of each production and to be able to provide input to the creative process with directors, designers, faculty and other staff members. Attend all necessary design presentations, drafting reviews, staff meetings, production meetings, and preparation sessions.
• DESIGN and LOAD-IN PROCESS: Work with designers to establish priorities and provide expertise for the construction and engineering of scenic elements for each production within budgetary and time constraints. In conjunction with the Master Carpenter, devise construction techniques for each show and execute the technical drawings. Oversee the rigging and installation of scenery for Center productions.
• BUDGETARY/FINANCIAL: Work within and monitor budgets in the areas of scenery, labor and annual supplies accounts. Report frequently to Production Manager and Managing Director on status of budgets. Gather information and purchase all scenery materials, tools, supplies and equipment ordered through the University purchasing system. Oversee use of University ProCard credit card account; submit receipts and transaction report on a weekly basis.
• SUPERVISION/MANAGERIAL: Organize and manage the work of Scene
• Shop Staff, Graduate Assistants, work-study students, and undergraduate crews in scenery production and check work progress with the intention of meeting production deadlines. Instruct and supervise graduate and undergraduate students in techniques necessary for handling, rigging, and installation and operation of all scenic elements. Instruct and supervise graduate and undergraduate students in the safe usage of tools and equipment in the shop and theatre. Make temporary hires as needed and approved by Managing Director. Responsible for the training and supervision of running crews to insure the safe operation and maintenance of all scenic elements during performances. Provide input regarding workflow, need for temporary employees, and improvements in the production process, equipment, and facilities.
• FACILITIES/EQUIPMENT: Responsible for maintaining and improving the
• areas of the physical plant directly related to scenery, such as shops, storage and theatres. Coordinate with other staff members, responsibility for the maintenance, safe operation, security and cleanliness of the areas mentioned above. Advise Managing Director on long-term capital needs and priorities. Will manage projects if deemed necessary.
• REHEARSALS & PERFORMANCES: Establish, supervise, and attend
• work calls above regular daily schedule (technical and dress rehearsals, crew trainings) and in coordination with other staff members. Oversees the strikes of all productions and the return of all equipment after a production closes.
• Duties listed below are executed on an as needed basis and are not consistent, therefore they are grouped together and given a rating of 5%
  • Coordinate scenic needs and procedures with house technician or representative when performances take place outside the Center.
  • Serve as liaison in area of scenery with outside groups using Center facilities as requested.
  • Establish and maintain relationships with local, regional and national theatres for reciprocal arrangements of equipment and resources.
  • Execute non-production-related Wirtz/University production projects as time allows in cooperation with other staff members.
  • Attends training sessions in CPR annually and First Aid as required.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Provides insight for annual reviews and update of this job description.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Graduate degree in technical theatre, design, or its equivalent in a related discipline (or equivalent technical theatre work experience) and a minimum of three years professional experience. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.

Minimum Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities.)

• Ability to execute and analyze draftings for the purpose of construction and rigging.
• Knowledge of common metal, plastics, and woodworking tools and techniques.
• Knowledge of painting techniques and applications.
• Exemplary work habits and the desire to teach them to others.
• Experience leading teams in the construction and installation of scenic elements.
• Ability to establish and maintain productive and collaborative working relationships with faculty, staff, and students.
• Ability to organize and establish priorities for the work of others. Ability to manage and lead other artists.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in technical theatre and 5 years professional experience.

Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities)

• Advanced knowledge of scenery construction and its related techniques, rigging, welding, safety standards.
• Software: Vectorworks, AutoCad.

Benefits:
At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful, competitive, high-quality health care plans, retirement benefits, tuition discounts and more! Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html to learn more.

Work-Life and Wellness:
Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life’s challenges and opportunities, and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles.
We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/work-life/index.html to learn more.
Professional Growth & Development:
Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you’re interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/learning/index.html to learn more.

Northwestern strongly recommends COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters for people who can obtain them as a critical tool for minimizing severe illness. More information can be found on the COVID-19 and Campus Updates webpage.

The Northwestern campus sits on the traditional homelands of the people of the Council of Three Fires, the Ojibwe, Potawatomi, and Odawa as well as the Menominee, Miami and Ho-Chunk nations. We acknowledge and honor the original people of the land upon which Northwestern University stands, and the Native people who remain on this land today.

Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer of all protected classes, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Click for information onEEO is the Law.

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