"Assistant Professor of Entertainment and Theatre Arts - IFO"

Job Description

Design or oversee the design of scenery, lighting, props, and sound for the Entertainment and Theatre Arts Program productions (typically 2-3 per year).

Serve as Technical Director and Scene Shop Manager, overseeing the work of student crews to construct and paint sets and install and run lighting, sound, props, and special effects.

Serve as the primary safety officer for all theatre spaces, enforcing safety polices, maintaining safety equipment, and responding to deficiencies, infractions, and injuries.

Teach a variety of courses for the major, minors, and MnTC, possibly including but not limited to:

• THTR 100 Theatre Appreciation (MnTC Goal 6 course)
• THTR 140/340 Stagecraft I and II
• THTR 220 Film and Television Appreciation
• THTR 245/445 Scenic Design I and II
• THTR 250/450 Lighting and Sound Design I and II
• THTR 265/365 Stage Management I and II

The person in this position may also teach LEP 101 First Year Seminar, Special Topics courses, and Independent Studies in Theatre as needed.

Provide safety oversight and technical support for other SMSU and non-SMSU events taking place in the Fine Arts Theatre or Black Box (music concerts, touring performers, orientation events, community events, etc.)

Provide safety oversight, as well as technical advice and guidance, for 2-3 student-produced Drama Club productions and additional events each academic year.

This position may also include the opportunity to direct Theatre Program productions, and/or to work with the SMSU Children’s Theatre and High School Musical Theatre Workshop summer programs.

The regular total credit-hour (or equivalent) load for this position is 24 credits per academic year.

Duties also include recruitment, student advising, participating in program assessment, contribution to student growth and development, evaluating student performance, creative/scholarly activity, and service to the University community (including regional service, education, or study).

Minimum Qualifications

A minimum of an MFA in Scenic Design, Lighting Design, Scenography, or closely related field.

Experience designing scenery and lighting for at least three (3) university or professional productions.

Experience as a Technical Director or Scene Shop Supervisor for at least three (3) university or professional productions.

Experience teaching university-level theatre design and technical courses, using current industry standard equipment, technology, and software.

Demonstrated commitment or proven strategies for fostering a diverse and inclusive environment; demonstrated ability or proven strategies to teach and work with persons from diverse backgrounds.

Student-centered approach and a commitment to helping grow the Entertainment and Theatre Arts Program.

An understanding of and appreciation for liberal education.

Abilities/competence in instructional technology, including online instruction.

Priority will be given to those who apply by 1/15/2026.

Required Documents

Transcript, Cover Letter, Vita, and Teaching Philosophy should be attached to your application.

Other Considerations

The successful candidate must be authorized to work in the United States by the first day of employment. The University will not give consideration for H-1B sponsorship. Employment or Visa sponsorship, other than H-1B status, must be pre-approved by the University prior to offer acceptance.

Telework (Yes/No): No