Visiting Assistant Professor - Scenic Design

About University at Albany:

Established in 1844 and designated a University Center of the State University of New York in 1962, the University at Albany's broad mission of excellence in undergraduate and graduate education, research and public service engages a diverse student body of approximately 17,000 students in nine schools and colleges across three campuses.

Located in Albany, New York, New York State's capital, the University is convenient to Boston, New York City and the Adirondacks.

Job Description:

The University at Albany (SUNY) Theatre Program seeks a Visiting Assistant Professor of Scenic Design for the Fall 2025 semester (an August 14, 2025 start date with classes beginning August 25, 2025) to design two productions a year for our season and teach classes in our undergraduate program. The Performing Arts Center in which we are housed contains five theatres, and a fully equipped scene shop.

This is a one-year appointment, with the possibility of second and third-year renewals.

Start Date: 8/14/2025

Salary: $50,000.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Teaching and Production
  • Teach undergraduate classes in Theatrical Design & Technology, related to areas of expertise.
  • Serve as Resident Scenic Designer, typically designing one production per semester.
  • Guide students (together with the Scene Shop Supervisor) in construction of scenic designs.
  • Mentor and supervise students in props.
  • Mentor students and foster community in our Theatrical Design & Technology minor.
• Service and other reasonable duties as assigned
• Service
  • Participate in faculty meetings and Theatre Program activities and events
  • Perform service for the department and university.

Job Requirements:

Enthusiasm for mentoring students with a range of skill levels.

Requirements:

Minimum Qualifications:

• MFA in Scenic Design or related field from a college or University accredited by the US Department of Education or internationally recognized accrediting organization.
• Teaching experience at the college/university level
• Strong collaboration skills, and the ability work flexibly with directors, designers, production personnel, and students, in both production and departmental settings.
• Experience working with diverse populations; a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Applicants must demonstrate an ability to develop inclusive and equitable relationships within our diverse campus community
• Applicants must demonstrate an ability to support diversity, equity, access, inclusion, and belonging relative to their role

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ability to teach hands-on courses, in addition to design.

Working Environment:

Typical classroom, theater, and office environment