Scene Shop Supervisor, Theatre

University of Southern Mississippi, United States

Updated: 1 day ago
Location: Hattiesburg, MISSISSIPPI
Job Type: FullTime

Scene Shop Supervisor, Theatre

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Scene Shop Supervisor, Theatre.


Position Details
Location Hattiesburg

118 College Drive
Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001
United States
Division School of Performing and Visual Arts
Position Type Staff
Employment Status Full Time
Grant Funded No
Pay Grade

E08

Posting Close Date August 1, 2024

Special Instructions to Applicants
Please include a cover letter, CV/resume detailing experience in both academic and professional theatre settings including experience supervising students or other unskilled labor, and contact information for at least three references. Position start date is July 1, 2024.
 
Job Summary 
This position maintains the theatre scene shop to be a productive space for education and production. This position works with faculty to supervise student workers, cost out materials for theatre sets, manage production timelines and schedules, and execute purchasing, and enforce safety standards in the theatre scene shop. This is a twelve-month, fulltime position supporting both the academic year USM Theatre season and the Southern Arena Theatre summer season.  
Primary Duties and Responsibilities

  •  Maintains the scene shop area and the scene shop equipment; inventories and purchases shop supplies; informs faculty of material and equipment needed for student success. Maintains inventory of scenery, furniture for sets, and other properties.
  • Supervises and oversees student workers in the shop, including supervising graduate assistants and undergraduate practicum; mentoring and safety supervision of equipment.
  • Works in concert with the scenic design and technical direction faculty in establishing individual production budgets, making creative project assignment, developing construction teaching opportunities, sharing in developing professional practices of students.
  • Supports theatre mainstage and studio production/instruction by assisting in supervising and guiding students in the load-in, rigging and shifting of scenery at all theatres.  Work with undergraduate and graduate students in the safe handling of scenery, proper rigging with fly systems, and joining scenic units.  Provide guidance to students on shifting practices, professional approaches and appropriate participation.
  • Supervises student workers including 2-3 graduate assistants, and 10-20 practicum students per term.
  • Manages purchasing and procurement card transactions.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Reports to Technical Director and Scenic Design Faculty. 


    • Minimum Qualifications  
     Bachelor's degree in Theatre with emphasis in Theatre Design and Technology from an accredited college or university and at least one year of related experience in Scene Shop Management and/or technical direction.

    Knowledge, Skills & Abilities  

    • Some understanding and experience with Microsoft Office and specialized design software applications including AutoCad or Vectorworks.
    • Strong knowledge of theatrical construction techniques, theatrical stage practices, and safe stage rigging.  Ability to work in all theatrical materials: wood, metal, plastics, fabric, etc.
    • Ability to operate and maintain scene shop equipment and tools, such as stationary saws, welders, sanders and drills; portable power tools; and hand tools.
    • Ability to manage skilled and unskilled student labor in building, installing, and striking theatrical sets.
    • Ability to train and supervise student crews through technical rehearsals and performance.
    • Ability to communicate effectively with others, particularly emphasizing the learning of safety precautions and safe operation of power tools.
    • Keen attention to detail, shop management and organization
    • Ability to transport moderate to heavy construction materials and lift and/or move heavy scenic units.
    • Ability to manage budget allocations and facilitate spending in compliance with university policies and procedures.
    • Ability to participate in healthy collaboration with students, faculty, guest artists, and other professional staff. 

     Preferred Qualifications  
    MFA in technical theatre preferred.


    About The University of Southern Mississippi
    Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.
    Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.
    We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit     www.usm.edu . 

    As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer/Americans with Disabilities Act institution, The University of Southern Mississippi encourages minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities to apply.


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