Posted: 07-Apr-26
Location: Englewood, New Jersey
Type: Full Time
Salary: DOE
Required Education:
Director of Technical Theater, Production & Venues
Reports To: The Dean of Performing Arts
Position Summary
The Director of Technical Theater, Production & Venues is responsible for the technical management, maintenance, and oversight of both Schenck Auditorium (450 seats) and Hajjar Auditorium (150 seats). This position ensures high-quality, consistent, and innovative live experiences by providing comprehensive technical and AV support for all performing arts and institutional events across all three divisions, including instrumental ensembles, choirs, theatrical productions, guest speakers, and other outward-facing school functions.
A core responsibility is leading the execution and implementation of scenic, lighting, sound, and special effects designs for theatrical productions. The Director also evaluates and integrates emerging stage technologies to enhance both production quality and student learning.
This position oversees student crews and coordinates with external vendors as needed. Safety, efficiency, and effective use of facilities and equipment are essential. The role fosters cross-departmental collaboration to support seamless, engaging, and professional-quality performances and events.
Because rehearsal and build spaces are shared, set construction and technical work may occur during the day, evenings, or weekends as needed, with corresponding schedule flexibility.
Preference will be given to candidates who demonstrate strong expertise in audio systems, scenic construction, and innovative stage technologies, including the integration of digital projections within scenic design.
Key Responsibilities
Theater Production & Technical Execution
- Oversee and meet process and production deadlines by the Dean of Performing Arts and program directors
- Design and implement lighting, sound, props, and special effects
- Build scenic elements, including drafting, carpentry, and assembly
- Oversee all aspects of technical design and execution for a minimum of four annual theatre productions, ensuring alignment with the director's artistic vision and technical requirements.
- Integrate innovative stage technologies such as digital projection, LED lighting systems, and interactive media into production design where appropriate.
- Develop and maintain a master production calendar coordinating theater, music, and technical needs of school-wide events in coordination with the Dean of Performing Arts.
- Lead production planning meetings and technical needs. Develop and maintain a master production calendar coordinating theater, music, and technical needs of school-wide events in coordination with the Dean of Performing Arts.
Instrumental & Vocal Ensemble Support
- Design and implement technical setups for concerts and ensemble performances
- Coordinate staging, audio, and technical needs across varied performance formats
- Collaborate with music faculty to support performance execution and efficiency
- Oversee concert recording in accordance with rights and school policies
Event Production Support
- Provide technical support for major institutional events in collaboration with school personnel
- Train students and staff in basic assembly sound and lighting to allow for independent execution of assemblies and smaller, internal events.
- Establish and maintain production standards for events across campus spaces beyond primary theater venues.
- Incorporate dynamic presentation technologies (multi-screen environments, live switching, projection mapping) into high-profile events
Facilities & Equipment Management
- Maintain Schenck and Hajjar Auditoriums as fully functional, performance-ready spaces through routine maintenance of theatrical systems and equipment
- Manage inventory of tools, equipment, and production materials
- Lead long-term planning for theatrical infrastructure, including system upgrades, integration of emerging technologies (e.g., stage automation, networked control, advanced lighting systems), and alignment with evolving program needs
- Ensure full compliance with safety standards across rigging, electrical systems, and audience-facing environments through ongoing evaluation, implementation, and oversight
Audio & Media Systems Oversight
- Oversee and optimize sound systems, digital audio networks, and playback across performance spaces
- Manage wireless microphones, shared audio resources, and live mixing of vocals and instruments during musicals and other events
- Train students and staff while developing workflows for recording, streaming, and media capture
Budgeting, Resource & Production Management
- Work within established production budgets to monitor spending on materials, equipment, and services in collaboration with the Dean of Performing Arts. This includes expense tracking and vendor coordination
- Evaluate the cost-benefit of emerging technologies and recommend strategic investments
- Manage and coordinate contract designers, technical specialists, and external vendors
- Partner with the Dean of Performing Arts to balance in-house production and outsourced services, prioritizing quality, efficiency, and resource optimization
Student Engagement & Program Support
- Develop and support student involvement in technical theater through instruction, mentorship, and hands-on production experience
- Introduce students to current production practices and technologies
- Foster a safe, organized, and educational working environment
Qualifications
- Degree in technical theater or equivalent professional experience
- Proven experience in scenic construction, including drafting, carpentry, and related techniques, with a strong working knowledge of lighting and sound systems
- Proficiency in design software such as AutoCAD, Vectorworks, or similar
- Experience with audio/visual technologies, including sound systems, recording, or projection/media integration
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and meet established timelines
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills
- Demonstrated interest in working with students and a commitment to maintaining a safe and organized work environment
- Personal and professional alignment to the school’s mission, vision, and values.
- Knowledge of and commitment to diversity, multiculturalism, and anti-bias education in all aspects of the work with Upper School students, families, and colleagues.
Physical Requirements: This position requires physical stamina and mobility including climbing ladders, working at heights/on catwalks, and operating power tools. There is frequent lifting, pulling, and pushing of heavy scenery, equipment, and tools often weighing 50 lbs or more. Good audio and visual acuity for lighting, scenic design, audio, and communication over distances. Capacity to work in varying conditions, including loud environments, dim lighting, and occasional dusty or outdoor settings.
Terms of Employment:
- This is a full-time, 10-month position
- Professional days are considered work days, and participation in planned activities is mandatory
- Standard working days consist of eight hours, with required attendance at weekly division or department meetings. Due to production schedules and venue needs, work hours will vary throughout the year and will frequently include evening commitments.
- Salaries are based on years of experience and education level. The salary range for this position based on the requirements stated above is 70K to 110K. If you are invited for an initial screening we will let you know where your salary falls on our scale.
- When applying, please include a portfolio of previous work experience.
- Dwight-Englewood offers a comprehensive benefits package including, health, dental, and vision insurance, 403(b) plan, life insurance, tuition remission, and a generous time-off policy.
Dwight-Englewood School is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of sex, ethnicity, age, national origin, religion, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy or military veteran status. The diversity of our student body supports our commitment to employ a diverse faculty and staff. Educators from all backgrounds who bring knowledge and expertise in equity, diversity and multicultural education are especially encouraged to apply.
