Assistant Professor of Practice - Theatre; Technical Director

Assistant Professor of Practice – Theatre (Technical Director)

The Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film at the University of Nebraska‑Lincoln invites applications for an Assistant Professor of Practice – Theatre (Technical Director) to join our dynamic program during an exciting period of transformation and growth. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of entertainment design and production education while working at the intersection of traditional theatrical craft and cutting‑edge digital media technologies.

As we prepare to launch our newly re‑invented Entertainment Design and Production BFA program and continue to foster our thriving MFA program, we seek a visionary technical leader who thrives in interdisciplinary environments and is passionate about preparing students for the evolving landscape of live and mediated entertainment.

The successful candidate will have comprehensive knowledge of scenic construction and engineering, rigging and safety, craft and properties, plus experience with entertainment technology including Vectorworks, AutoCAD, automation and other show‑control systems, 3D printing and CNC fabrication technologies. The candidate will be committed to practice‑based learning, understand how traditional craft informs digital innovation, and be dedicated to preparing students for current and future career paths.

The candidate will enthusiastically explore new technologies and methodologies, be comfortable with ambiguity, and contribute to the development of new pedagogical approaches. Willingness to engage with online platforms and digital curriculum development is a must. The successful candidate will be experienced in managing complex technical operations, collaborate with diverse stakeholders, and have a track record of successful project management with a vision for the future evolution of technical theatre education.

• Oversee all physical building aspects of Production including rigging, safety, and engineering for the Johnny Carson School.
• Design and implement technical systems that support both conventional and experimental production methodologies.
• Lead the integration of new production technologies into existing production processes.
• Collaborate with Emerging Media Arts faculty to develop cross‑program technical resources and workflows.

• Teach courses in technical theatre, entertainment technology, and emerging production methodologies.
• Develop curriculum that bridges traditional craft with digital innovation.
• Mentor students in both hands‑on construction techniques and sophisticated digital tools.
• Foster interdisciplinary learning opportunities across theatre, film, and emerging media programs.

• Oversee the strategic development of technical facilities to support our expanding programmatic vision.
• Manage traditional scene shops, prop shops, storage spaces, and making labs alongside emerging technology spaces.
• Ensure all facilities meet current safety standards while accommodating innovative practices.

• Sustain active engagement with current and emerging entertainment industry technologies.
• Advocate for student opportunities in internships, apprenticeships, and industry partnerships.
• Represent the program at professional conferences and industry events.
• Contribute to the ongoing conversation about the future of entertainment education.
• Facilitate connections between academic programming and professional development opportunities.

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment. See (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

• Master of Fine Arts in Technical Theatre, Entertainment Technology, or a closely related field; or, in exceptional cases, significant professional experience in lieu of a terminal degree.
• At least two years of professional…