SUMMARY
Technical Director is responsible for planning and executing the technical operations for all 1st Stage productions and events through collaboration with various departments including Artistic Programming, Production Management, and Design Teams. The 1st Stage production calendar spans September-July. This is a full-time position that reports to the Production Manager.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITES
- In conjunction with the Production Manager, designers, and production supervisors, prepare crewing needs, technical needs etc. for all productions and production activities undertaken by 1st Stage.
- Effectively communicating and working closely with Designers and Directors to materialize their vision, within financial and scheduling constraints and available resources.
- Maintaining a clean and safe work environment at all times.
- Hiring, training, and supervision of all scenic department crews, including carpenters, & scenic artists.
- Supervise load-ins, strike, build, and special events
- Liaise with the Artistic Programming team and visiting directors to ascertain all technical needs for productions.
- Work with the Production Manager to create and manage the production calendar. Complete build and design implementation on-time according to the calendar.
- Facilitate productions by purchasing materials and supplies as needed and supervising the crew during the build process. Work within the design and labor budgets for each production and inform Production Manager of any potential budget over-runs and remedial strategies. Track and submit all receipts for purchases.
- Manage technical drafting process including sourcing of theatre plans and ensuring accurate scenery construction, ground plans are created as well as creating and maintaining accurate inventories of technical equipment.
- Maintain and repair scenery and technical equipment as needed
- The Technical Director will lead the construction and maintenance of scenery and the construction of props for all productions.
- Attend all departmental, production meetings, technical rehearsals, and preview performances.
- Serve as the facility technical director (onsite or in a consulting capacity) for various rental events through the year.
- Oversee the maintenance of the facilities including scene shop, costume shop, storage and all equipment.
- Evening and weekend hours as required
- Other reasonable duties as required from time to time at the request of the Associate Producer
REQUIRED SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE
- Appropriate professional theatre experience in technical direction or related fields.
- Advanced knowledge of scenery construction techniques, including structural design calculations, and of Autocad and/or Vectorworks.
- Ability to read, create, manipulate, and interpret drawings and other technical materials.
- Familiarity with rigging techniques and practices with an emphasis on safety.
- Ability to manage expenditures and budgets.
- Ability to create schedules and meet deadlines.
- Ideally able to drive standard trucks.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to lead teams with clear direction and respect.
- Willingness to work on a dynamic and flexible schedule, including some evenings and weekends.
- Moderate to advanced knowledge of sound, projections, and lighting for theatre preferred.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
- Salary: $52,500 per year
- Healthcare Benefits
- Paid Time Off: Vacation, Personal, and Sick
TO APPLY
Candidates should submit:
1. A Cover Letter addressing interest and fit for the role,
2. Resume, and
3. References. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Email applications with subject line “TD Role - First + Last Name” to: [email protected]
ABOUT 1ST STAGE THEATER
1st Stage Theatre is an award-winning professional theatre in the heart of Tysons, Virginia. The company serves as a cultural hub for the community producing first-rate theatrical productions as well as hosting professional musicians, orchestras, and visual artists, and providing educational opportunities for the community. 1st Stage’s production of The Nance won 4 Helen Hayes Awards in 2025, including Outstanding Production, and was the most nominated production in the region. Other awards include the American Theatre Wing’s National Theatre Company award. Additionally, 1st Stage is a renewed member of the Spur Local (formerly the Catalogue for Philanthropy) class of 2025-2026. In September 2016, The Wall Street Journal called 1st Stage “one of America’s most impressive smaller regional companies.” For more information, visit 1st Stage online at www.1ststage.org or follow the theatre on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Pay: From $52,500.00 per year
Benefits:
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
Work Location: In person
