About Clark University:

Founded in 1887, Clark was one of the first all-graduate institutions in the United States. Today the University is a highly-ranked, student-centered institution educating approximately 2,350 undergraduate and 1,150 graduate students to be imaginative and contributing citizens of the world and to advance the frontiers of knowledge and understanding through rigorous scholarship and creative effort. This commitment to scholarship and inquiry reflects the University's commitment to "challenge convention and change our world" and to address issues of critical importance to society. It is also reflected by Clark's many national and international distinctions, including innovation, community engagement and impact, as a top green campus, and for having a distinguished geography and international development program. Clark has also been included in the groundbreaking Colleges that Change Lives guide since it was first published in 1996.

Clark is located in Worcester, Massachusetts, a dynamic, diverse city "on the rise". The second largest city in New England, Worcester is home to 11 institutions of higher learning and is increasingly recognized for its growing healthcare and biotechnology communities, its thriving cultural scene, and as a vibrant food hub.

Job Description:

Position Summary

If you love the smell of sawdust, the buzz of a well-run tech week, and helping students bring big ideas to life, you'll feel right at home at Clark. We're looking for a Technical Director who thrives in creative, collaborative environments and who's equally comfortable teaching in the classroom and managing behind-the-scenes magic in our theatres.

This full-time staff role is a hybrid of hands-on technical direction and undergraduate teaching. You'll oversee our production spaces and safety protocols while teaching two technical theatre courses each semester. It's a chance to make a real impact on a program where students are encouraged to experiment, lead, and build work that matters.

This is a one-year pilot position, with a review planned to assess future needs as Clark explores the creation of a new academic unit for the Visual and Performing Arts.

About the Program

Clark's Theatre Arts Program, part of the Department of Visual and Performing Arts (V&PA), blends imagination with action. Our students engage in all aspects of performance and production, often taking the lead on shows from start to finish. The department values interdisciplinary exploration, hands-on learning, and mentorship rooted in collaboration and inclusion.

We are housed in the Little Center, which includes the flexible 130-seat Michelson Theater, the Experimental Theatre, costume and set shops, and rehearsal spaces. Productions also take place in Atwood Hall, a larger proscenium-style venue on campus.

Key Responsibilities Oversee the day-to-day operations and technical functionality of theatre spaces and shops, including Michelson Theater, the Experimental Theatre, Atwood Hall, and the wood shop Serve as safety officer for all production spaces, ensuring compliance with OSHA, fire codes, and university policies Maintain tools, equipment, and safety documentation; coordinate with Facilities and other campus departments as needed Teach two undergraduate courses per semester in technical theatre (e.g., Stagecraft, Introduction to Technical Theatre, or Advanced Problems in Design) Supervise and mentor student technicians and crews for both departmental and student-led productions Collaborate with faculty, guest artists, and students on scenic and technical design implementation Interpret and generate technical drawings, production schedules, and build specs Manage technical budgets and participate in production and departmental planning meetings About the Program

Clark's Theatre Arts Program, part of the Department of Visual and Performing Arts (V&PA), blends imagination with action. Our students engage in all aspects of performance and production, often taking the lead on shows from start to finish. The department values interdisciplinary exploration, hands-on learning, and mentorship rooted in collaboration and inclusion.

We are housed in the Little Center, which includes the flexible 130-seat Michelson Theater, the Experimental Theatre, costume and set shops, and rehearsal spaces. Productions also take place in Atwood Hall, a larger proscenium-style venue on campus.

Requirements:

Required Qualifications Master's degree in Theatre Production or equivalent combination of education and professional experience Substantial hands-on experience in technical theatre, including scenic construction, rigging, lighting, electrics, audio, and video systems Familiarity with safety regulations and compliance in theatrical environments Supervisory or crew management experience, ideally in an educational or mentorship setting Ability to read and interpret technical drawings; experience with budgeting and production planning Experience teaching or training others in technical theatre, particularly at the college level Preferred Qualifications Experience working in a college or university theatre program Ability to teach advanced topics in areas such as lighting design, projection, or sound Proficiency with scenic drafting, lighting plot generation, and modeling software (e.g., Vectorworks, AutoCAD, SketchUp) Entertainment rigging certification or willingness to pursue certification within one year of hire Working Conditions Position is based on-site in theatre, shop, and performance environments Requires physical activity including lifting up to 50 lbs, climbing ladders, and operating tools and machinery Evening and weekend work required during production periods Regular interaction with students, faculty, vendors, and campus operations staff Why Clark?

Clark University is a liberal arts-based research university where curiosity meets impact. Located in Worcester, Massachusetts, Clark's culture values creativity, inclusion, and hands-on learning, especially in the arts. The Theatre Arts Program emphasizes collaboration and student ownership. As Technical Director, you'll play a critical role in supporting student creativity and building a safe, exciting environment for live performance to thrive.

Additional Information:

At Clark University we believe that diversity of experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds leads to a more innovative and productive work environment. We welcome and encourage individuals of all backgrounds to join our team and contribute their unique ideas to help us achieve our goals.

Clark University offers a generous benefit package for full and, if applicable, part-time employees that include; paid time off, generous retirement plan, group health and dental insurance, life insurance, and tuition, along with use of many campus amenities. For a complete list of benefits for eligible employees visit here .

To review the Clark University Police Department Annual Security and Fire Safety Report visit here .

Application Instructions:

To be considered for this position, you must submit your credentials online. Create a Clark University Careers Account by clicking on the APPLY NOW button below. You will be able to upload the following documents, which are required for consideration: Resume Cover letter

See the FAQ for using our online system. Please contact us if you need assistance applying through this website.

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Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Salary will be commensurate with skills and experience.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States for any employer.

A successful background check is required upon acceptance.