Scenery and Lighting Designer - Performing Arts at Iowa

Scenery and Lighting Designer – Performing Arts at Iowa

Join to apply for the Scenery and Lighting Designer – Performing Arts at Iowa role at University of Iowa
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The Performing Arts at Iowa seeks a Production Designer with expertise in scenic and lighting design. This full‑time, twelve‑month staff position serves as a resident designer for the Performing Arts at Iowa, covering the Department of Dance, School of Music Opera, and Department of Theatre Arts. The role requires evening and weekend work to support technical and dress rehearsals.

The department produces two Dance main‑stage productions, two Opera productions, five Theatre main‑stage productions, up to ten dance concerts, and up to twenty theatre galleries and workshops annually. The resident designer will be responsible for up to four realized scenic designs and up to five lighting designs for main‑stage productions per academic year, plus design support for special projects and select events as determined by the Production Director.

• Provide clear, timely communication of design work, including research and concept ideas, preliminary sketches, final renderings and drafting, props lists, light plots, and other design‑area specific paperwork.
• Stay up to date with industry trends, technologies, and materials to innovate and enhance event designs.
• Collaborate closely with Production staff throughout the design, build, and performance process to ensure creative, budget, and production deadline expectations are met.
• Facilitate effective, healthy, and productive production environments in collaboration with artists, faculty, staff, and students.
• Share the design process with graduate and undergraduate students to create a welcoming, respectful, and collaborative work environment.

• BS/BA/BFA degree with a concentration in design for theatre, dance, and/or opera, or equivalent educational and professional experience as demonstrated via portfolio submission.
• Minimum of three years’ experience in a major university or professional production company.
• Detail‑oriented with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Self‑motivated and an independent thinker who consistently meets deadlines, resolves conflicting priorities, and demonstrates outstanding interpersonal skills.
• Strong portfolio demonstrating creativity and skill in scenic design and fabrication.
• Proficiency in design software such as Sketch Up and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Proficiency in production software such as AutoCAD and/or Vectorworks, and Light wright.
• Familiarity with ETC lighting consoles.

• MFA in Theatrical Design or terminal degree in a related area.
• Experience mentoring students.
• Experience with student performers and/or crews in an academic shop or production environment.
• Experience with Digital Media Design.
• Member of United Scenic Artists 829.

For additional job details and  (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). and access requisition #.

Applicants must upload the following documents and mark them as a “Relevant File” to be considered for an interview:

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Link to a design portfolio

The position is not eligible for visa sponsorship in the United States. Successful candidates will be required to self‑disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification. Up to five professional references may be requested later in the recruitment process.

• Pay Level: 4A
• Starting Salary Minimum: $65,000
• Starting Salary Maximum: $70,000

Organization:
College of Liberal Arts

Contact Name:
Kellie Kucera

Contact Email:
Kellie-Kucera