"Assistant Technical Director - Sound and Video (Theater/Dance)"

Wesleyan University, founded in 1831, is a diverse, energetic liberal arts community where critical thinking and practical idealism go hand in hand.

Wesleyan University is recognized for its experimental approach to the arts and its commitment to integrating creative practice across disciplines. The University’s Arts Production department supports the artistic and technical needs of Dance, Music, Theater, and Art & Art History, as well as student productions and visiting artists through the Center for the Arts (CFA). Together, these programs create a vibrant cultural hub for the campus, the Middletown community, and the broader New England region.

Reporting to the Technical Director/CFA Theater Manager, the Assistant Technical Director - Sound and Video works primarily in theater and dance focused arts venues, providing support in areas of audio and video system design, engineering, rigging, execution of performances, and other areas of technical production as needed. The Assistant Technical Director – Sound and Video is a multifaceted role that works with all disciplines represented in the CFA and is a resource in its specialties to campus partners outside the Arts.

Responsibilities Include:

Theatrical and AV Technician

• Design, engineer, and oversee the rigging, operation, and strike of comprehensive audio and video systems, ensuring safe and effective setups tailored to the requirements of each production.
• Provide audio engineering and technical support for Theater and Dance productions, collaborating with professional and student sound designers to ensure high-quality performances.
• Advise and support student theater and dance projects on audio, projection, and technical design, promoting hands-on learning and creative problem-solving.
• Provide cross-disciplinary technical support (e.g. electrics, scenic) as needed.
• Lead, guide, and train student production crews in day-to-day theater operations, preparation and execution of performances.
• Assist in the setup, operation, and maintenance of lighting, sound, and media equipment for departmental productions and classes in Theater and Dance.

Arts Production Team Member:

• Operate or monitor performances in key technical roles (e.g., sound board or video operator).
• Participate in Arts Production staff and production meetings.
• Provide technical support in other Wesleyan performing arts venues as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and at least three years of experience in audio engineering, theatrical sound, or A/V production in an arts context, including rigging experience; or an equivalent combination of education and related experience.
• Proven ability to conceptualize, design, implement, and operate multimedia systems in live performance and production environments.
• Proficiency in theatrical rigging systems, with hands-on experience using dead-hung, counterweight, and motorized equipment.
• Demonstrated expertise in DANTE audio systems, Allen & Heath and Yamaha consoles, QLab and Isadora software.
• Ability to work nights and weekends during technical rehearsals and performance periods.
• Familiarity in Google Workspace, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced production environment.
• Flexibility to perform across multiple technical disciplines (sound, video, lighting, scenic) as needed.
• Demonstrated commitment to work within a diverse environment and work collegially with individuals of different backgrounds.
• Effective communication skills.
• Ability to safely work at heights using ladders or lifts and to lift up to 50 lbs. with or without accommodation.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience mentoring or supervising students and early-career theatrical technicians in a production environment.
• Familiarity with a range of arts disciplines beyond theater, such as dance, devised performance and/or site-specific work.
• Experience supporting or executing live video capture and streaming of performances.
• Possess an ETCP Rigging Certification.
• Working knowledge of lighting and electrics, including safe hanging and focusing practices.
• Interest in or commitment to sustainable and ecological scenographic practices.

Position is open until filled. For full consideration please apply by November 30, 2025 when first review of applications will begin.

As part of your application, please upload a cover letter and resume.

Compensation: $48,208-$56,396

Work Location: On Campus

All offers to external applicants are contingent on the candidate’s completion of a pre-employment background check screening to the satisfaction of Wesleyan University.