The Moss Arts Center is searching for an experienced theatrical stage and rigging supervisor to join our full-time, full-year professional production staff. See the diverse array of programs and artists we present at www.artscenter.vt.edu.
The Stage and Rigging Supervisor reports to and works closely with the Director of Production (hereafter DoP) to provide supervision of staging and rigging operations in support of the Center’s presented programs throughout the facilities including a 1200-seat performance hall, multiple galleries, a theatrical/research black box for up to 150 seats, lobbies, and occasional outdoor/offsite venues. Areas of responsibility include advance planning and execution of stage configurations, upkeep and repair/replacement of tool and stage equipment inventory, supervision of crews and vendors, liaison with tour production personnel, project carpentry and supervision, and occasional overall event production supervision.
This position is part of a team of seasoned professionals who work a year-round schedule in support of a presented season with a balanced blend of large orchestra, chamber, and solo performers, major contemporary and classical dance companies, multimedia events, and authors and other speakers. The production unit’s workflow flexes to the flow of the academic year cycle, also providing venue support to the School of Performing Arts during academic terms and allowing ample time for departmental planning for technical innovation and upgrades. University benefits include comprehensive health insurance, retirement, and generous support for professional development and educational advancement.
Required Qualifications
Progressively responsible professional experience with stage and rigging services at an arts presenting organization and a level of expertise generally associated with several years of experience.
Demonstrated ability to direct and provide professional production support for diverse programs and artists across the genres of music, theatre, and dance, including professional national and international touring companies, student ensembles, local community arts organizations, and commercial/industrial productions.
Working knowledge of all aspects of theatrical stage and rigging technologies and experience with a variety of related equipment including but not limited to personnel lifts, motor and winch systems, counterweight systems, seating wagons, portable orchestra shells/ceilings, and riser systems.
Excellent theatrical carpentry skills and experience supervising carpentry projects.
The ability to effectively lead and supervise student, freelance, and vendor crews.
Strong written, verbal, organizational, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills.
Demonstrated ability to work within a Production Team atmosphere.
Willingness, ability, and capacity to work evening and weekend hours.
Bachelor’s degree in a performing arts related field with additional professional experience or equivalent combination of education and considerable related professional experience.
Preferred Qualifications
Working knowledge and ability with CAD programming and software.
Experience at a major university presenting organization.
Experience in an additional technical skill area related to performing arts production.
Experience in life-safety procedures related to theatrical production.
Experience with a variety of metal welding types/systems.
Experience with operating/programming a variety of automated motor/winch control systems.
Application Information
Review of applications will begin February 1, 2023; applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
Full-time position with outstanding university benefits, minimum salary $60,000, actual offer will be commensurate with experience.
Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.
If you have questions about the position, contact Doug Witney at dcwitney@vt.edu.
Virginia Tech’s Moss Arts Center presents renowned artists from around the globe and from close to home, with a special focus on experiences that expand cultural awareness and deepen understanding. Our presented seasons typically include large orchestra, chamber, and solo performers, major contemporary and classical dance companies, multimedia events, and thought-provoking authors and speakers. More about the Moss Arts Center and our programming can be found at www.artscenter.vt.edu.
