DEPARTMENT: Production
REPORTS TO: Technical Director
LOCATION: La Jolla, California on the beautiful campus of the University of California, San Diego
CLASSIFICATION: This is a full-time, exempt (salaried) position, eligible for a full array of benefits including health and life insurance, 403(b) retirement plan, paid time off (vacation, sick and 11 holidays), and complimentary tickets to Playhouse performances
COMPENSATION: $70,000-76,000 annually
WORKS WITH: Playhouse Staff, Production Management, Visiting Artists and Designers, UCSD Supervisors
SUPERVISES: IATSE Scenery Labor, IATSE Paints Labor, IATSE Run Crew, IATSE Apprentices and Pre-Apprentices
TARGET START DATE: April 28, 2025 – May 5, 2025
REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS: Please submit a cover letter, resume, and drafting work sample HERE.
ABOUT THE POSITION:
Under the direction of the Technical Director and Production Manager, the Assistant Technical Director serves as a key member of La Jolla Playhouse’s Production Department. The Assistant Technical Director works collaboratively as part of the Technical Direction Team to determine and execute the technical design requirements of all La Jolla Playhouse productions. This work shall include estimating, engineering and drafting of projects, and administrative support to ensure oversight and quality of production at all levels. Key to the success of those projects, the Assistant Technical Director will take an active role in facilitating communication with scenic, props, electrics, sound shops and La Jolla Playhouse Management to ensure all departments are informed about designs, changes, and technical planning for each production.
The position is expected to function independently in a fast-paced and detail-critical environment, responding to changes and challenges in a calm and thoughtful manner. The Assistant Technical Director will assist in the management of construction, installation, maintenance, and transfer of scenery (built, purchased, rented, or otherwise) for any productions produced and presented by La Jolla Playhouse to which they are assigned while maintaining a safe and healthy work environment.
The successful candidate is an engineer, technician, manager, and artist committed to the artistic vision and mission of La Jolla Playhouse.
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES:
-Create technical drawings for shop build based on designer drawings, layouts, and other visual aids.
-Draft detailed assembly and installation drawings for use by production crew during load in. -Research materials and hardware required to execute the construction of designed units and inform Shop Foreman of ordering needs.
-Actively communicate with shop crew to monitor build progress and help monitor quality control.
-Work closely with the Scenery Supervisor and Production managers to meet budgetary and scheduling goals.
-Communicate closely with production design team during the engineering and construction phases of the project.
-Compile relevant drawings and documents to facilitate successful future transfers of Playhouse productions as necessary.
-Enhance and support the educational and institutional mission of La Jolla Playhouse. -Maintain regular communication regarding coordination of artists’ requirements and La Jolla Playhouse resources.
Inclusive and Safe Working Environment:
-Commitment to a culture of learning, community, inclusion, belonging, and respect among employees and visiting artists.
-Commitment to a culture of safety, both psychological and physical, ensuring a safe work environment.
-Represent the Scenery Department as necessary during Safety Inspections in Production facilities.
-In collaboration with Production Management and other Department Supervisors, contribute to production risk assessments to achieve workable and safe productions at all levels.
-Maintain current knowledge of safety best practices and standards.
Staffing, Scheduling and Workflow:
-Collaborate with Technical Director on estimating cost for designs based on designer drawings.
-In collaboration with the Technical Director, direct the Scenery Department Staff in the Construction, Installation, Strike and Transfer process for all productions beginning with early design consultations through completion of projects.
-Instruct the Draftsperson on the preparation of ground plans and sections of designer drawings, rigging and technical drawings, and any other such drawings pertinent to the scenery, stages or other performance locations in Vectorworks/AutoCAD and PDF formats for use by technical, stage management and design staffs.
-Attend production meetings, run throughs, tech rehearsal, previews, and note sessions as requested by Production Management.
QUALIFICATIONS:
-Professional experience in theatrical technical direction, engineering and drafting.
-Strong working knowledge of mechanical and structural design for the stage.
-Proficient in 3D Drafting in either Vectorworks (preferred) or AutoCAD.
-Working knowledge and experience with specialized tools used in advanced scenic construction (Wood and Metal Working tools, CNC).
-Detailed knowledge and demonstrated skill in scenic construction, welding, rigging, structural engineering, complex automation solutions and soft goods/fabric maintenance and repair.
-Ability to read and create CAD scenic construction and engineering drawings.
-Computer skills: Mac, PC, Microsoft Office, Networking, IP, TCP/IP, AutoCAD, Vectorworks, Automation (UDP, Artnet, DMX, MIDI a plus).
-Deep knowledge of and dedication to safe work practices, industry best rigging practices, and automation practices.
-Strong attention to detail and proactive monitoring of processes with excellent communication skills and a collaborative demeanor.
-Possess strong critical thinking, problem solving, and organizational skills.
-Works well under pressure and time constraints, maintaining a calm demeanor in the face of new and unexpected challenges.
-Commitment to uphold and meaningfully engage with the mission, vision, and values of La Jolla Playhouse.
ADDITIONAL PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
-Bachelor’s degree or Advanced Master’s in Theatrical Technical Direction.
-Experience working in a LORT Theater.
-OSHA 30 and ETCP Rigging Certifications.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
-The production facilities at La Jolla Playhouse are in a multistory building with work taking place on all levels. The Assistant Technical Director may be asked to carry materials up and down stairs, and use hand and stationary power tools. The Assistant Technical Director may be asked to move scenery or equipment in excess of 50 lbs with assistance. Work may take place on ladders, mobile elevated work platforms, and/or steel grids at heights between 18-60’ above deck level accessed by a straight ladder.
-This job may require the ability to stay in a stationary position for long periods of time, with periods of intense movement. Frequent movement and use of limbs, good manual dexterity, strength, coordination and stamina may be required at times.
-This position works both inside and outside depending on weather.
-Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including some nights, weekends and holidays.
