Arts Production Specialist

Primary Purpose Of Organizational Unit

PRC manages the planning and oversight of a 3.1 million dollar professional and educational theatre operation. This unit has a staff of about 175 which includes approximately 47 employees, 20 independent contractors, 30 work‑study students and up to 100 volunteers. Approximately 37 of these employees are seasonal employees, requiring new contracts and university personnel paperwork for each season. This unit is responsible for creating significant professional artistic programming, student and community engagement activities and attendant fundraising endeavors.

The unit functions as a program of the Department of Dramatic Art. Employees of the unit are essentially employees of the department and the budget of the unit falls under the budget of the department. However, Play makers is currently (5‑2021) responsible for raising close to 60% of its annual 3.1 million operating budget.

Theatre Production Specialist focuses in one of the following production departments at Play Makers: stage management, scenic carpentry, props carpentry/crafts, costume shop, sound or electrics. These positions support their particular production department as assigned based upon the candidate’s experience and expertise. Theatre Production Specialist’s duties may extend to backstage production roles. Day‑to‑day duties may include: managing the rehearsal and performance process, run crew as determined by Production Manager, interpreting drawings and cut lists created by the show’s Technical Director;

executing stage craft techniques as delegated by the Technical Director or Scenic Artist; procuring, building, or refurbishing new and cataloged props; cutting, draping, or stitching costume pieces under guidance of Costume Designer or Costume Crafts Artisan; record and/or edit sound cues as delegated by the production Sound Engineer/designer, pull, hang, cable, or focus electrics under supervision of Master Electrician. Theatre Production Specialist will work closely with undergraduate as well as graduate students in the Department of Dramatic Art.

Graduation from a four‑year college or university with a degree preferably in the Theatre Arts, and some experience that provides the employee with the functional work experiences needed to perform the work; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

• Experience in professional theatrical technical production.
• Proficiency with theatrical production equipment.
• Experience working in an academic environment.

Ability to move 50 lbs. with or without reasonable accommodation.

Not Applicable.

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation’s top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world‑class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn. One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks that include numerous retail and restaurant discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates for performing arts events.