Assistant Technical Director

In 2023, the Museum reopened following a four-year renovation that expanded the building and grounds. Designed by the renowned architecture firm Studio Gang, the facility includes landscaped grounds by the firm SCAPE and secures AMFA’s position as one of the top cultural institutions in the region. The building includes state-of-the-art galleries, an art school, restaurant, store, theater, lecture hall, and other programming and event spaces. AMFA is an active partner in the educational, economic, and cultural life of a diverse community, inviting discovery, creativity and learning through engagement with the visual and performing arts.

The Assistant Technical Director (ATD) plays a vital role in supporting the technical and production needs of a Children’s Theater, that also serves as a Performing Arts Center, and Museum programs as a whole. The ATD works closely with the Technical Director, Production Team, and Artistic Staff to ensure the seamless execution of all performances, classes, and events. This role requires a combination of technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and a passion for working in a youth-centered arts environment.

Production & Technical Support

• Assist the Technical Director in overseeing all technical aspects of productions, including set construction, lighting, sound, projections, rigging, and special effects; Ensure safe and efficient operation of the theater’s technical equipment; Collaborate with directors, designers, and stage management to bring creative visions to life while maintaining feasibility within time and budget constraints.

Set & Stage Management

• Assist in designing, building, and installing scenic elements for productions; Coordinate load-ins, strikes, and scene changes for performances; Maintain an organized, clean, and safe scene shop and storage areas.

Lighting & Sound

• Program and operate lighting and sound systems for rehearsals and performances; Assist in hanging, focusing, and maintaining lighting instruments; Troubleshoot sound, lighting, and projection issues as needed.

Facility & Safety Management

• Ensure compliance with safety protocols for all technical operations, including fire codes and OSHA standards; Conduct regular maintenance and repairs of technical equipment; Support venue rentals and external events by providing technical assistance.

Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with the Technical Director, Stage Managers, and Production Staff to ensure smooth show operations; Respectfully and courteously communicate and interact with professional talent, cliental, and VIPs; Assist with scheduling and supervising volunteer and student crews; Provide technical support for special events, workshops, and educational programs.

Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Required Skills & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Technical Theater, Theater Production, Audio Production or a related field (or equivalent work experience).
• 2+ years of technical theater or performing arts center experience.
• Strong Skills in Qlab, ETC lighting systems, and Yamaha sound consoles.
• Skills in scenic construction, rigging, lighting design, sound design, and projection.
• Ability to problem-solve quickly and adapt to fast-paced production environments.
• Experience working with children, students, or community theater groups is a plus.
• Knowledge of basic safety protocols and equipment maintenance.
• Proficient in Microsoft Outlook

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience mentoring and training youth or emerging theater technicians.
• Basic knowledge of theatrical costume, props, and special effects.
• Comfortable working a semi-flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends as required for productions and events.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements

Physical demands:

• Regularly stand and/or walk for prolonged periods (up to 5 hours at a time)
• Occasionally sit for prolonged periods (up to 5 hours of time)
• Frequent use of hands and fingers for typing and operating equipment.
• Regularly bend, reach, and stoop.
• Regularly climb stairs and ladders
• Regularly use hand tools, saws, and power tools
• Occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.

Communication demands:

• Regularly required to use speech to interact with other employees, guests, artists, and stakeholders.

Vision demands:

• Visual acuity (corrected if necessary) adequate to read and prepare documents, and to view a computer screen/monitor for extended periods of time.
• Ability to visually inspect theater areas and equipment for any signs of wear, damage, or safety hazards.

Hearing and Speaking demands:

• Hearing adequate to communicate effectively in person and via phone and hear alarms or signals related to equipment and safety systems.
• Clear speaking ability adequate for presentations and interactions.

General Safety Awareness

• Ability to adhere to all safety protocols, including using personal protective equipment (PPE) as needed.

Work environment/exposure:

• With very limited exception, work is performed indoors, in a theater environment.

AMFA offers a full complement of benefits including:

• Group Term Life, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability insurance
• Voluntary Group Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
• Employee Assistance Plan (EAP)
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Voluntary Supplemental Insurance plans
• Voluntary Pet Insurance
• Paid Vacation and Sick Leave that accrues immediately
• Paid holidays
• AMFA Membership