Temporary Technical Director, Rake's Progress

About the role

The temporary Technical Director at Boston Conservatory at Berklee serves as Technical Director for the assigned off‑campus opera, Rake’s Progress, held at the Wimberly Theatre in April 2027. As part of the Performance Services department, the TD reports to the Assistant Director of Production and collaborates closely with the Staff Technical Director, off‑campus venue staff, Stage Management, and the full production team. The TD works directly with the Scenic Designer and the outside shop building the scenery to ensure deadlines are met, information is disseminated accurately, and all work aligns with the schedule and production needs. They evaluate the set design for feasibility and budgetary compliance, and oversee and/or participate in the construction of designs. This is a temporary, hourly position anticipated to run through May 3, 2027. Communication begins in the fall while the design is being developed; much of the work may be done remotely, with on‑site presence required from late March 2027 through mid‑April as needed.

Schedule

• Scenic Load In: March 30, March 31, and April 1, 2027
• Spacing: April 8 & 9, 2027 (TD/SM Walkthrough at 5 pm, then Cast Walkthrough at 7 pm)
• Tech: Saturday, April 10 and Sunday, April 11, 2027, 10 am – 9 pm
• All Department Notes and Dress Rehearsals: Evenings of April 12, 13, 14, 2027
• Performances: April 15 @ 7:30 pm, April 16 @ 7:30 pm, April 17 @ 7:30 pm, April 18 @ 1:00 pm
• Strike: Follows final performance
• Scenic pick up: Tuesday, April 20, 2027

Responsibilities

• Ensure all phases of each production are thoroughly planned, organized, effectively executed, in line with artistic goals and overall production schedule, initiating corrective action when necessary
• Oversee all scenic needs and work calls throughout the full production process
• Prepare and disseminate scenic and technical information and changes, including costs, at production meetings and to all production stakeholders
• In conjunction with the Production Coordinator and Venue Staff, ensure staffing for appropriate calls
• Maintain and coordinate for the safety, accessibility, and functionality of department facilities and equipment
• Create and disseminate construction drawings, ground plan and section drawings, along with other technical drawings as needed
• Manage and disseminate notes from technical rehearsals and represent Technical Direction team as assigned
• Collaborate with the Technical Direction team in technical planning and drafting
• Communication with Scenic Designer and Shop

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Theater or similar field, or equivalent work experience
• At least three years of experience as a professional Technical Director required
• Experience working with college students in an advisory, supervisory, and/or educational capacity preferred
• Excellent written and oral communication skills

Knowledge Required

• Advanced experience in scenic construction and rigging
• Advanced ability to read and produce draftings/construction drawings
• Ability to work independently
• Familiarity with applicable OSHA and EPA standards
• Experience with QLab for video and Keynote preferred
• Working knowledge of standard theatrical practices and procedures
• Proficiency in stagecraft, knots, theatrical construction methods, light metalwork and fabrication
• Proficiency in computer‑aided drafting (AutoCAD and/or Vectorworks)
• Some knowledge of theatrical lighting systems, and audio‑visual equipment, including projections and QLab, is preferred but not required

Skills and Abilities

• Strong troubleshooting, leadership, and collaborative skills
• Excellent communication and time management skills required
• Valid Driver’s License

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Lead overhire labor crews
• Ensure safe working environment for all reports

Work Environment

• Indoor environments, some with low light: stages, backstage areas, dressing rooms, costume shop, storage spaces, prop and scenery storage, office spaces, workshop, control booth
• Seated and standing positions
• Stairs and ladders

Physical Requirements

• Nights and weekends required
• Must be able to lift objects of up to 50 pounds
• Must be able to climb ladders up to 24 feet

Pay

Hiring range: $26.00–$39.50/hr; salary dependent on relevant experience and education.