Professor of Practice and Technical Director - (ADJ000765)
Organization
: H0090 Music
Salary
Commensurate with experience
Description
:
The Kathrine G. McGovern College of the Arts at the University of Houston
invites applications for a position responsible for the technical operations
of Kathrine G. McGovern College of the Arts productions, with primary
responsibility for the Moores Opera Center and Moores School of Music
productions. Technical operations include lighting, sound, set design and
construction, props and costumes, as well as coordinating necessary
maintenance. This person will ensure all technical aspects of productions work
smoothly and safely, coordinating with faculty, artistic directors, music
directors, venue management staff, A/V staff, and production staff. This
person will collaborate with artistic directors to ensure fulfillment of the
artistic vision for each production and safety of the actors and crew.
Responsibilities include supervision of students in credit-bearing technical
and shop hours required in the music degree programs. While primary
responsibilities are in the Moores School of Music, expectations include
support for and collaboration with the curricular programming and technical
operations in the School of Theatre & Dance.
Responsibilities and Duties
Production Planning and Coordination:
Collaborate with the program directors, artistic team, and production staff to develop production plans, technical designs, and schedules for opera and other Moores School of Music (MSM) productions.
Coordinate and oversee all technical aspects of productions, including set design, construction, lighting, sound, props, costumes, and stage management.
Liaise with production designers, scenic artists, lighting designers, and costume designers to ensure the seamless integration of technical elements into the production.
Develop and prepare construction drawings for stage scenery, create purchase lists for scenic designs, and make approved purchases to support designs.
Technical Execution:
Provide technical expertise in the realization of scenic designs, ensuring their feasibility, functionality, and adherence to artistic and safety standards.
Oversee the construction, installation, and operation of sets, scenery, props, and stage machinery for productions.
Coordinate the setup, focusing, and operation of lighting and sound systems, ensuring their effective use during performances. Assists guest designers as needed.
Collaborate with the costume department to ensure the timely acquisition, fitting, and maintenance of costumes for opera productions.
Coordinates the load-in and strike for each production, working in conjunction with venue staff and crews.
Maintains prop and furniture inventory and sources props and costumes as needed.
Budget and Resource Management:
Develop and manage the budget for technical aspects of assigned productions, including equipment rental, materials, labor, and other production expenses.
Optimize the use of resources and equipment, ensuring cost-effective solutions without compromising artistic quality.
Source and negotiate contracts with vendors, suppliers, and technical service providers to secure necessary equipment, materials, and expertise within budgetary constraints.
Team Leadership and Management:
Works with program performance-venue management and personnel to assess labor needs and supervise crews.
Works with faculty to coordinate and oversee scheduling, planning, and training of students in Moores School of Music degree programs.
Provide leadership and direction to the technical team, fostering a collaborative and professional work environment.
Coordinate, schedule, and attend technical rehearsals, production meetings, and crew assignments to ensure efficient workflow and effective communication among team members.
Conduct performance evaluations, provide feedback, and support the professional development of technical staff.
Support and provide collaboration, as needed, for the curricular programming and technical operations in the School of Theatre & Dance.
Safety and Compliance:
Ensure compliance with safety regulations, industry standards, and best practices in opera production.
Implement and enforce safety protocols and procedures for technical operations, rigging, set construction, and other production activities.
In collaboration with venue and senior leadership, conduct regular inspections of production facilities and equipment, addressing any safety concerns promptly.
Promote a culture of safety awareness and adherence to safety guidelines among all personnel involved in opera productions.
The University of Houston is a Carnegie-designated Tier One public research
university. With over 500 students and nearly 100 faculty, the Moores School
of Music at the University of Houston seeks to create a community of musical
excellence and creativity in one of America's most culturally diverse cities.
The Moores School offers bachelor, master and doctoral degrees in performance
as well as varying degrees in performance and pedagogy, conducting, music
education, musicology and music theory. It also offers courses and performance
opportunities to the campus and community at large. These programs and
initiatives incorporate applied instruction, ensemble performance, and
coursework in music history, music theory, aural skills, music technology,
research, pedagogy, and conducting.
The University of Houston is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action
institution. Minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities are
encouraged to apply. Additionally, the University prohibits discrimination in
employment on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity or gender
expression.
Qualifications
:
Advanced degree in Technical Theater, Production Management, or a related
field. Equivalent professional experience in opera production may be
considered.
Extensive training and experience in technical theater, including
proficiency in lighting design and operation, sound design and
reinforcement, rigging, set construction, stage management, and production
workflow.
Experience in higher or secondary education teaching and supervising
students in technical theatre.
Demonstrated track record of successfully managing technical aspects of
live performances, including opera, theater, and dance productions.
Knowledge of industry-standard equipment, software, and tools used in
performance venues, such as lighting and sound consoles, CAD software, and
stage automation systems.
Excellent organizational and project management skills, with the ability
to prioritize tasks, manage multiple productions simultaneously, and meet
deadlines.
Strong leadership and team management abilities, with the capacity to
motivate and supervise technical personnel effectively.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to
collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including directors, designers,
performers, and production staff.
Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify and address
technical issues promptly and efficiently.
Ability to work well under pressure and make quick decisions during live
performances and technical rehearsals.
Preferred Qualifications:
Demonstrated experience in scenic design preferred
Experience with a professional opera company preferred
Experience in public education preferred
Notes to Applicant: Official transcripts of all academic degrees are required
for a faculty appointment and will be requested upon selection of the final
candidate. All positions at the University of Houston are security sensitive
and will require a criminal history check.
Required Attachments by Candidate: Curriculum Vitae, Cover Letter/Letter of
Application
Job Posting
: Aug 26, 2023, 12:29:05 AM
