Assistant Professor of Practice - Theatre; Technical Director

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Employment Website Assistant Professor of Practice - Theatre (Technical Director) Please see Special Instructions for more details.

Click “Apply for this Job,” complete the faculty information form, and attach the following required documents:

• Cover letter addressing your vision for technical theater education in an interdisciplinary, technology-rich environment.
• Comprehensive CV highlighting both traditional craft experience and emerging technology expertise.
• Teaching philosophy statement (2-3 pages) describing your approach to technical education in a rapidly evolving field. Upload as “Other Document.”
• Portfolio of technical work including traditional projects and any digital/emerging media productions.
• Three professional references including contact information.

• Working Title:
  
  Assistant Professor of Practice – Theatre (Technical Director)
• Department:
  Johnny Carson School – Theatre & Film
• Requisition Number: F_250080
• Posting Open Date: 12/10/2025
• Application Review Date: 02/23/2026
• Posting Close Date:
  Open Until Filled Yes
• Appointment End Date: (none specified)
• Planned Hire Date: 08/17/2026

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 a comprehensive knowledge of scenic construction and engineering, rigging and safety, including knowledge in craft and properties; experience with entertainment technology including Vectorworks, AutoCAD, automation and other show‑control systems, 3D printing and CNC fabrication technologies; commit to practice‑based learning; have an understanding of how traditional craft knowledge informs and enhances digital innovation; passion for interdisciplinary collaboration;

dedication to preparing students for current and future career paths; enthusiasm to explore new technologies and methodologies; comfort with ambiguity; ability to thrive during transformation; interest in contributing to the development of new pedagogical approaches; willingness to engage with online platforms and digital curriculum development; experience in managing complex technical operations; ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, students, faculty, staff and industry partners;

track record of successful project management; and a vision for the future evolution of technical theatre education to meet changing industry demands.

The Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film is expanding beyond traditional boundaries to embrace the convergence of live performance, film, digital media, and emerging technologies. Our Technical Director will be instrumental in guiding this transformation, helping to establish new pedagogical approaches that reflect industry innovation while honoring the foundational principles of theatrical craft.

This position is uniquely positioned to foster campus‑wide interdisciplinary collaboration, particularly with our close partnership with the Johnny Carson Center for Emerging Media Arts. Together they create a comprehensive ecosystem where students explore the full spectrum of entertainment design—from traditional stagecraft to virtual production, motion capture, interactive media, and immersive storytelling technologies.

Nebraska offers an attractive compensation and benefits package, commensurate with the successful candidate’s background and experience. Faculty status with opportunities for promotion in rank and…