Designer in Residence

About UNSW

UNSW isn’t like other places you’ve worked. Yes, we’re a large organisation with a diverse and talented community, a community doing extraordinary things. Together, we are driven to be thoughtful, practical, and purposeful in all we do. Taking this combined approach is what makes our work matter. If you want a career where you can thrive, be challenged and do meaningful work, you’re in the right place.

Why Your Role Matters

The Designer in Residence program at UNSW’s Esme Timbery Creative Practice Lab supports early-career theatre and performance designers by providing access to studio space and design projects in a collaborative educational environment.

The Designer in Residence will work with UNSW staff and students to create set and costume designs for theatre, performance and music productions, while introducing students to innovative industry practices. The role also contributes to high-level, public-facing outcomes across theatre and performance, music and potentially screen production courses.

Access to the Creative Practice Lab design studio and workshop space will support the successful candidate in developing their creative practice while modelling industry best practice and standards for students.

The role reports to the School Manager and works closely with the Creative Practice Lab Production Manager and Production Assistant, Course Convenors and Production Director. The position has no direct reports.

Responsibilities Summary

• Engage in individual and collaborative design practice across theatre, performance and/or music production.
• Develop set and costume designs for theatre, performance, music and screen practice-based subjects that produce public-facing outcomes.
• Apply sustainable design principles, including sourcing, maintenance and return considerations.
• Provide advice and guidance on design in student productions while modelling professional industry practice.
• Contribute to pedagogical approaches to design dramaturgy and learning.
• Solve creative and technical design challenges while working within budget constraints.
• Develop innovative and practical solutions to design briefs and production requirements.
• Prepare an annual report and School presentation highlighting the outcomes, successes and challenges of the residency program.

Skills and Experience Summary

• Relevant qualifications and/or professional experience in theatre, performance, music or production design.
• Demonstrated experience in set and/or costume design for live performance or related creative practice.
• Knowledge of professional theatre and performance industry practices and production processes.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with creative teams, students and stakeholders.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to deliver creative outcomes within budget parameters.
• Evidence of highly developed interpersonal, organisational and communication skills.
• Ability to contribute positively to student learning and support emerging creative practitioners.