| Location | Birmingham, AL |
Posting Details
Position Information
Job Title College of Arts and Sciences-Assistant Professor-Theatre Department Name 481900000 Theatre School/College College of Arts and Sciences Job Description
Description: The Department of Theatre at the University of Alabama at Birmingham seeks a collaborative, innovative, and solutions-oriented Technical Director for a full-time, one-year Assistant Professor position to begin August 2026. The review of candidates will start on May 31st.
This position plays a central role in the artistic and educational mission of the department, overseeing the daily technical operations of UAB Theatre's scenic studio while mentoring and training the next generation of theatre makers. The Technical Director works in close partnership with directors, scenic designers, the Production Manager, and a team that includes a Scene Shop Supervisor, Electrics Supervisor, and Props Supervisor; leading all scenic construction processes from drafting and engineering through budgeting and execution for a five-show season.
The successful candidate will be an engaged educator and working professional who believes strong process leads to strong results, treats safety as non-negotiable, and sees collaboration as the core of meaningful work.
Responsibilities:
Oversee all technical aspects of five mainstage productions
Engineer, draft, and cost scenic designs for all productions
Create and distribute build drawings and technical documentation
Collaborate closely with directors, the Production Manager, and a team of production specialists including: the Scene Shop Supervisor, Electrics Supervisor, and a Props Supervisor to realize artistic vision within practical constraints and support a cohesive production process
Work with the Scene Shop Studio Supervisor to oversee and participate in scenic construction, painting, installation, and strike
Work with the Scene Shop Studio Supervisor to manage and maintain the scene shop, tools, equipment, and technical facilities
Lead load-ins, strikes, and production transitions
Manage scenic budgets, purchasing, and expense reconciliation
Work with the Scene Shop Studio Supervisor to mentor and supervise student workers
Mentor undergraduate students in technical theatre and production practices
Required Qualifications
Bachelors Degree in Theatre or related field, at least 18+ credit hours towards a terminal degree in Theatre
Minimum of two years of professional Technical Direction experience
Advanced knowledge of theatrical rigging systems and safety practices
Proficiency in an industry-standard drafting software (eg. AutoCAD or Vectorworks)
Strong organizational, budgeting, and administrative skills
Ability to manage multiple projects in varying stages of completion
Physical Requirements:
Ability to lift at least 50 pounds
Ability to work at heights including ladders, scaffolding, lifts, and catwalks
Ability to perform physical tasks including bending, climbing, and extended periods of standing or sitting
Preferred Qualifications
MFA/MA in Technical Theatre
Three or more years of professional Technical Direction experience
Experience with welding and structural engineering principles
Familiarity with contemporary fabrication technologies including CNC and 3D printing
Physical Demands
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number TS1211P Open Date 05/05/2026 Close Date 05/31/2026 Open Until Filled Yes Nondiscrimination Statement
UAB is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, sex (including pregnancy), genetic information, age, disability, religion, and veteran's status. As required by Title IX, UAB prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to UAB's Assistant Vice President and Senior Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX notice of nondiscrimination is located at uab.edu/titleix.
Special Instructions to Applicants
Application Process: Review of applications will begin May 15 and will continue until the position is filled.
Applications should include:
Cover letter
Curriculum vitae
Portfolio or examples of technical/drafting work
Contact information for three professional references
Questions may be directed to Search Committee Chair Therrin Eber, tjeber@uab.edu.
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