Senior Production Technician - Part Time

About the role

Duke University is a leading research university located in Durham, North Carolina. This role is part-time and supports world-class performances, academic programming, and campus events.

Responsibilities

• Provide operational and technical support for events and performances across Duke campus venues.
• Install, maintain, program, and operate lighting, audio, video, stage, and rigging systems for theatrical, musical, film, and special events.
• Support event setup and strike, including lighting, sound, video operation, fly rail operation, stage carpentry, painting, and rigging.
• Operate conventional and modern lighting, sound, and stage equipment during rehearsals and performances, following audio and visual cues.
• Work closely with artists, producers, designers, faculty, and students to ensure the safe, timely, and high-quality execution of multi-day and single-day events.
• Instruct, oversee, and coordinate the work of technicians, students, other venue users, and local union stagehands (IATSE), ensuring proper scheduling, breaks, and compliance with labor and safety standards.
• Confer with internal staff and clients to ensure accurate delivery of technical services aligned with event needs.
• Maintain open communication with venue managers, technical teams, and box office staff regarding event execution and facility maintenance.
• Participate in department, production, and planning meetings as needed.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support departmental, divisional, and University goals.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in technical theatre or a closely related field, or
• An equivalent combination of education and experience, including up to four years of professional technical event or theatre production experience in lieu of a degree.

Technical Skills & Knowledge

• ETCP certification in one or more disciplines (Arena Rigger, Theatre Rigger, Entertainment Electrician, Portable Power Distribution Technician) strongly preferred; employees without certification are expected to complete certification within two years of hire.
• Knowledge of modern entertainment control and networking protocols such as DMX512 and RDM.
• Experience with modern lighting consoles and advanced digital lighting systems.
• Understanding of ETCNet, DMX communication protocols, and configurable network hubs.
• Familiarity with digital audio systems using software, hardware, and Ethernet-based networking.
• Ability to operate digital audio consoles for live sound reinforcement.
• Working knowledge of video projection systems, including lens selection, cable management, source routing, and monitoring.
• Intermediate to advanced experience with industry-standard software such as Vectorworks, Lightwright, and QLab.

Professional & Interpersonal Skills

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Clear verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with individuals of varying experience levels.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work effectively under pressure.
• Commitment to safety, policy compliance, and continuous improvement.

Licensing

• Valid North Carolina driver’s license required and ability to maintain Duke vehicle eligibility.

Working & Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in environments with noise, dust, low light, and at heights, including rigging grids, catwalks, ladders, and lifts.
• Frequent reaching, climbing, stair use, and use of tools.
• Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 50 pounds and wear required safety equipment, including harnesses.
• Regular evening, weekend, and extended hours required based on event schedules.

Pay Range

The anticipated pay range for this position is USD $20.52 to USD $32.86 per hour.

Benefits

Duke University offers comprehensive and competitive medical and dental care programs, generous retirement benefits, and a wide array of family-friendly and cultural programs to eligible team members. Learn more at: https://hr.duke.edu/benefits/.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Duke University is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, (including pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions), sexual orientation, or military status.

Essential Physical Job Functions

Ability to work in environments with noise, dust, low light, and at heights, including rigging grids, catwalks, ladders, and lifts.

Nearest Major Market

Nearest Major Market: Durham

Nearest Secondary Market

Nearest Secondary Market: Raleigh