Technical Director

About the role

The Technical Director oversees the installation and repair of sets, rigging, props, lighting, and sound equipment for all Theatre events. They work irregular hours, evenings, weekends, and holidays under the direction of the Theatre Director or his/her designee.

Responsibilities

• Assists incoming companies in the load in, execution, and striking of sets, scenery, costume racks, shipping cases and various other materials and equipment.
• Oversees and executes scene changes during performances; sets hand props, places set pieces and raises and lowers drops, curtains, or scenery in potentially adverse conditions which may include heights, loud noise, and large crowds.
• Maintains inventory of theatre supplies and equipment; reports inventory shortages; makes recommendations for capital improvement projects.
• Aids visiting theatre companies in the organization and best utilization of theatre equipment.
• Inspects theatre equipment and stage materials regularly to ensure proper maintenance and upkeep; performs necessary repairs.
• Covers the supervision of stage crew.
• Monitors cameras during a show run, as necessary.
• Processes timesheets, Billing and Advancing future shows when necessary.
• Sets safety standards and example for the crew.
• Adheres to City and departmental policies and procedures; performs related work duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Knowledge of: Stage rigging techniques and hardware, set construction techniques, lighting and audio equipment, and techniques; knowledge of safety rules and standard backstage practices pertaining to theatrical work.
• Ability to: Do work requiring physical strength, dexterity, and endurance; skill in carpentry work and in the assembly and operation of scenery, props, rigging, counterweights, and various theatre materials and equipment; ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with visiting production companies, producers, directors, stage managers, actors, singers, dancers, musicians, promoters, stage crews, and other production personnel; ability to effectively train and supervise subordinates; ability to communicate clearly and concisely, orally and in writing; ability to work varying hours under stress and within pressing deadlines; ability to operate and repair light and audio board, follow spot, theatre equipment, and a variety of hand and power tools.
• Maintain accurate files and records; operate a personal computer using Microsoft applications; work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Qualifications

• Experience: Three (3) years of applicable backstage theatre experience including supervisory experience and carpentry work or any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and ability.
• Education: Bachelor's degree in Theatre Arts, Public Administration, Business Administration or related field OR graduation from high school or the equivalent with a minimum of 3 years professional experience as a lead stagehand/rigger and technical director.
• Licenses or Certificates: Possession of a valid California Class C driver license is required. The Following Certifications Are Desired But Not Required: CPR, First Aid, AED Certification, PIT (Forklift) Certification, Aerial Lift Platform (Scissor lift) Certification, ETCP Certified Rigger – Theatre.

Skills

Desired certifications for this position include: PIT (Forklift) Certification, Aerial Lift Platform (Scissor lift) Certification, ETCP Certified Rigger – Theatre, CPR, First Aid, AED Certification.

Benefits

The City of La Mirada offers a competitive compensation and benefits package based on the adopted Salary and Benefits Resolution. Appointments are normally made at the first step of a five-step salary range. One year of City service is required to advance to the next pay step in the salary range. For detailed salary and benefits information, see current Summary of Salary and Benefits.

Pay

Salary effective June 29, 2026 with approved cost-of-living adjustment: Bi-weekly $2,912.98 - $3,625.74 Annually $75,737.48 - $94,269.24

Schedule

Under the direction of the Theatre Director or his/her designee, the Technical Director is responsible for the smooth and safe staging of events. The Technical Director must be able to employ tact, diplomacy, and unlimited patience while working with a wide variety of amateur and professional directors, stage managers, producers, actors, singers, dancers, musicians, promoters, stage crews, and other production personnel. The Technical Director must be constantly alert to potential safety hazards and take immediate action to correct them when they occur.