Asst. Professor of Theatre Design & Technology and Director of Technical Theatre

The Avila University School of Performing Arts in the College of Arts & Sciences, guided by our mission of excellence in teaching and learning and dedicated to service to the Dear Neighbor, invites applications for a Full-Time, Tenure-Track Assistant Professor of Theatre Design & Technology.

This position serves as both a faculty member and Director of Technical Theatre, providing leadership for theatrical production, instruction in technical theatre and design, and oversight of performance spaces and production facilities. The successful candidate will contribute to undergraduate education through teaching, mentorship, creative practice, and service while supporting the production mission of the School of Performing Arts. The successful candidate will also collaborate with regional professional and educational partner organizations to support production, educational, and community-engaged initiatives aligned with the mission of the School of Performing Arts.

• Teach 12 credit hours each Fall and Spring semester, adjusted by course releases tied to Director of Technical Theatre responsibilities.
• Courses may include:
  Stagecraft, Stage Lighting, Technical Theatre Practicum, Stage Management Practicum, and other design/technology courses aligned with expertise.
• Deliver content using effective pedagogical methods appropriate for students with differing abilities, preparation levels, and cultural experiences.
• Use Canvas Learning Management System as part of course delivery.
• Perform other duties related to assigned courses as needed.
• Provide leadership, serving as Technical Director for all School of Performing Arts productions.
• Design two (2) mainstage productions per academic year in areas aligned with professional expertise.
• Create and maintain production calendars, schedules, and timelines.
• Attend and facilitate production meetings, design presentations, technical rehearsals, and strikes.
• Supervise and coordinate scenic, lighting, sound, props, and paint areas in collaboration with faculty, staff, and students.
• Oversee technical operations of the Goppert Theatre, Franze Black Box, scene shop, paint shop, and related storage spaces.
• Maintain and manage inventory of lighting, sound, scenic, and shop equipment.
• Provide technical support for university events requiring sound or lighting.
• Ensure safe operation of all technical spaces and equipment.
• Mentor and supervise student designers, technicians, and production crews.
• Advise students academically and professionally.
• Foster a positive, inclusive learning environment supportive of student development and collaboration.
• Provide service to the program, school, college, university, and community.
• Participate in recruitment, auditions, season planning, and assessment activities.
• Work collaboratively with School of Performing Arts colleagues, the Chair, and faculty across Avila University to improve programming, culture, and access to education.
• Collaborate with local, regional, and professional partner organizations in support of productions, student learning opportunities, workshops, and community engagement initiatives.
• Engage in scholarly, creative, and/or professional activities appropriate to a tenure-track appointment.

• MFA or other terminal degree in Theatre Design, Technical Theatre, or a closely related field required.
• Demonstrated experience in theatrical production and technical direction required.
• Experience teaching in higher education or equivalent professional mentorship experience required.
• Familiarity with industry-standard software (e.g., Vectorworks, CAD programs, QLab, light or scenic visualization tools & OSHA standards).
• Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Professional theatrical design or technical credits preferred.
• Experience supervising student crews and managing theatrical facilities preferred.
• Experience collaborating with professional theatre companies, arts organizations, or educational partners.
• Successful candidates should highlight their experience and be committed to contributing to a climate that supports a diverse student body, serves first-generation college students, and contributes…