Technical Director - Straz Patel Conservatory

Technical Director

Straz Center for the Performing Arts is seeking a Technical Director to join our production team. This position oversees the production/event/class-related technical operations, including lighting, sound, scenic, costume design, and construction for the Patel Conservatory. The Technical Director supervises the Production personnel and collaborates with production directors and Department Chairs to support the production and departmental technical needs of the Patel Conservatory.

Located in downtown Tampa, Straz Center is one of the largest performing arts complexes in the country, offers a team-based work environment that shows our dedication to the community every day. We reward our full-time employees with a strong benefits package including options for health/dental, vision, etc., discounted downtown parking, food and show discounts, plus a generous 403(b) plan and up to 26 days of PTO/Holidays per year.

Staffing Management:

• Supervises Conservatory Technical Supervisor, Production Administrator, and Education Production staff which includes responsibility for interviewing, selection, training, and performance evaluation; schedules assigned workers, approves work hours in payroll system; ensures a harmonious work environment to maximize employee morale and productivity.
• Facilitates training for students, staff, independent contractors, volunteers, interns, and apprentices in technical capacities such as stage management and stage crew, as needed.

Production/Event Management:

• Evaluates production and event needs: assigns and schedules production staff accordingly.
• Coordinates technical production needs for Education and Community Engagement events and productions; provides technical oversight for Conservatory performances.
• Negotiates and executes approved contractor agreements for designers, stage managers, guest artists, directors, choreographers, scenic artists, costumers, and other production personnel.
• Advises student and professional designers on technical specifications, equipment, costs, and usage; supervises implementation of approved designs.
• Provides event specific technical support in areas such as lighting, sound, and scenic production.
• Supervises and assists with set and stage construction and management.
• Facilitates production meetings and maintains regular communication with the Production Team, including oversight of Stage Manager communications during productions. Recommends Lighting Designers and oversees the installation of lighting plot.
• Partners with the Technical Supervisor to evaluate production needs and efficiently manage space and equipment requests.

Operations:

• Operates, maintains and safeguards Conservatory and TECO Theatre technical assets, including lighting, sound, video, musical, communications, and stage equipment.
• Monitors the Conservatory and TECO Theatre calendars, communicates scheduling needs, and assists with resolving space conflicts.
• Oversees equipment condition, preventative maintenance, repairs, and replacements within budget: recommends capital equipment purchases.
• Attends technical rehearsals and performance as needed to supervise and support production technical needs.
• Serves as liaison with the Straz Center Production Department for Conservatory events in Straz center venues.
• Partners with Security and Center Operations to ensure productions comply with safety and security policies.
• Develops and maintains standard operating procedures (SOP's) for assigned areas to meet artistic vision.

Fiscal and Budget Management:

• Collaborates with Chairs of Theater, Dance and Music in the development of production/event budgets.
• Monitors budgets to ensure expenses remain in line with approved budgetary requirements.
• Processes final Settlements for Conservatory productions/events.

Supervisory Responsibility:

• This position supervises the Technical Supervisor, Production Administrator, and Education Production staff.

• Self-motivated with strong administrative and organizational skills, along with close attention to detail and ability to maintain good records.
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Good understanding of budgeting, planning and general management principles.
• Ability to work with tact, diplomacy, discretion, adept at interacting positively with co-workers and management.
• Knowledge of the Microsoft suite of business applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint.
• Ability to work independently in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work evenings and weekends as scheduled.
• Must be able to pass a Level 2 background screening.

• College degree in theater, production or related field or, equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 4 years of experience in a theatrical production, design, or stage management, and/or theater educational setting preferred.
• Background in technical theatre, design, production, stage management for…