Resident Scenic Designer / Technical Director

The Resident Scenic Designer/Technical Director, a member of Sunset Playhouse’s full-time professional staff, is responsible for conceptualizing, designing, and executing scenic elements for all theatrical productions while ensuring artistic vision aligns with budget, safety needs, and production timelines. This role oversees all technical operations—including set construction, lighting, sound, and stage mechanics—while supervising shop volunteers and collaborating closely with directors and producers, production teams, Education Director, and the Artistic Director to deliver high-quality productions.

General Responsibilities

Working with the assistance of staff and volunteers, responsibilities include but are not limited to: set design and construction of Furlan Auditorium and After Sunset productions, and School for the Arts productions; assisting guest light and sound designers; providing technical support to the other performance series, including the Sunset School for the Arts productions, maintaining the technical shop area and equipment; recruiting, training, and utilizing technical volunteers, and assisting in general maintenance of the building.

Qualifications

Education: BFA or BA in Technical Theater with emphasis on design and construction or equivalent experience preferred. Experience, in lieu of a degree, will also be considered.

Experience: 2-5 years’ experience in design/construction/painting of sets. Basic Understanding of light and sound design.

Schedule: 40 hours per week base. Flexible schedule with additional hours, including nights and weekends, during tech weeks as needed.

Certifications/Licenses: Valid Driver’s License

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Create set designs and construction drawings that translate into workable building plans that align with directors’ visions
• With assistance of highly skilled volunteers, construct, paint, and dress sets
• Knowledge of basic lighting and sound design
• Recruit, train, and retain technical/shop volunteers
• Able to work independently and lead with enthusiasm, professionalism, and a team-player mindset
• Ability to meet production deadlines within budget
• Proficiency in industry-standard scenic design and drafting software required
• This position requires the ability to sit and stand for extended periods, lift and carry heavy materials, work safely on ladders, and perform other physical tasks associated with scenic construction and installation.

Compensation – Benefits:

• $45,000 – $50,000 per year – based on experience, with opportunities for annual bonuses (a health insurance stipend is also available)
• 10 paid vacation days per year / 6 PTO days per year / 8 paid holidays per year

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Sunset Playhouse is an Equal Employment Opportunity organization. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, national origin, ancestry, or citizenship.