Technical Director (Full-Time)
Farmers Alley Theatre
Equity SPT-4 Black Box Theatre Kalamazoo, Mi
We are seeking a skilled, collaborative, and solutions-oriented Technical Director to join our team at a professional Equity SPT-4 black box theatre in Southwest Michigan. This position plays a critical leadership role in realizing the artistic vision of our productions while maintaining a safe, efficient, and well-managed technical environment.
Position Overview
The Technical Director (TD) oversees all technical aspects of production, including scenery construction, lighting and sound implementation, and coordination of technical staff. Working closely with the Producing Artistic Director, guest designers, and stage management teams, the TD ensures that all productions are executed at a high professional standard.
Key Responsibilities
- Interpret scenic, lighting, and sound designs into practical, buildable plans
- Draft or supervise drafting of technical drawings as needed
- Oversee and participate in the construction, installation, and strike of all scenic elements
- Manage the scene shop, tools, and technical inventory
- Supervise and mentor over hire staff
- Collaborate with designers and directors to achieve artistic goals within budget and space constraints
- Ensure compliance with all safety standards and best practices
- Coordinate load-ins, tech rehearsals, and changeovers between productions
- Maintain production budgets in collaboration with leadership
Qualifications
- Prior experience as a Technical Director or Assistant Technical Director in a professional theatre setting
- Strong knowledge of scenic construction techniques, materials, and tools
- Proficiency in drafting (Vectorworks, CAD or similar software preferred)
- Working knowledge of lighting and sound systems
- Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
- Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously
- Commitment to fostering a positive, inclusive, and collaborative work environment
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in black box or flexible theatre spaces
- Experience working under Equity (AEA) guidelines
- Ability to read and interpret designer renderings and plots
- Basic welding and rigging experience
- Time management skills, ability to work well under pressure, and meet deadlines
- Team player with outstanding problem-solving abilities and creative solutions that can work independently
- Ability to manage and oversee a small crew as assigned
- Ability to maintain a clean, safe work environment
- High attention to detail and artistic eye
- Excellent communicator with a sense of humor and an optimistic attitude
Compensation & Schedule - $50,000 -$ 60,000
- Salary based on experience
- Position will be full-time
- Some evenings and weekends required, particularly during tech and performance periods
About Us
We are an Equity professional theatre going into our 19th season, committed to producing high-quality, intimate theatrical experiences. Our black box space allows for creative staging and innovative storytelling, and we pride ourselves on a collaborative process that values both artistry and craftsmanship.
To Apply
Please submit:
- Resume
- Cover letter
- Portfolio or examples of past work (if available)
- Three professional references
Applications should be sent to swmichtheatre@gmail.com
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
