Theatre Specialist

THEATRE SPECIALIST

Job Title:

Theatre Specialist

Classification:

Employee; FT 40 hours per week; Exempt

Location:

NCCM Flagship Campus in Rocky Mount, NC

Reports to:

Theatre Manager

Work Environment:

Primarily on site; schedule varies based on performances, rehearsals, rentals, programs, and technical production needs

Position Summary

The Theatre Specialist provides technical expertise and hands-on production support for performances, rehearsals, rentals, programs, and special events at NCCM’s flagship campus. Working closely with the Theatre Manager, this position is responsible for the safe and effective operation of theatre production systems and helps translate event and performance needs into well-executed technical setups. The Theatre Specialist serves as the primary technical resource within the theatre and serves as a technical resource to the rest of the campus and its events. 

Key Responsibilities

Technical Theatre & Production

• Operate and support theatre lighting, sound, projection, audiovisual, communications, and other production systems for performances, rehearsals, rentals, and events.
• Prepare technical setups based on the requirements of each production or event, including equipment placement, patching, testing, cues, and pre-event checks.
• Provide technical support during rehearsals and live performances and troubleshoot equipment or production issues as they arise.
• Support load-in, setup, changeover, strike, and load-out for productions, rentals, and special events.
• Assist visiting performers, production teams, renters, and presenters with the appropriate use of theatre systems and equipment.
• Support basic stage, backstage, rigging, scenic, and production needs within the scope of training and established safety procedures.
• Contribute to the artistic and visual design of stage productions, collaborating on scenic, lighting, staging, and other production elements to support the creative vision of performances and events.

Equipment, Systems & Facility Support

• Perform routine checks of technical equipment and systems and identify maintenance, repair, replacement, or safety needs.
• Maintain organized technical equipment, cables, tools, accessories, control areas, backstage spaces, and related inventory.
• Document equipment issues and coordinate needed service or repairs with the Theatre Manager, facilities staff, vendors, or qualified technicians.
• Help establish and maintain operating procedures for theatre equipment and technical spaces across campus.
• Monitor appropriate use of theatre systems by staff, renters, volunteers, and visiting production personnel.
• Assist with recommendations for future technical equipment purchases, upgrades, replacements, and improvements based on operational needs.

Production Coordination & Collaboration

• Review technical requirements for upcoming performances, rentals, and events with the Theatre Manager and help determine appropriate equipment, setup, staffing, and preparation needs.
• Communicate technical capabilities, limitations, and safety requirements clearly to the Theatre Manager and visiting production personnel.
• Coordinate with facilities, visitor services, security, and other NCCM staff on technical needs that affect event operations.
• Support campus-wide events and programs requiring theatre, sound, lighting, projection, or other production support as assigned.

General Expectations

• Operate theatre equipment safely and in accordance with manufacturer guidance, industry practices, and NCCM policies.
• Maintain a professional and collaborative presence with performers, renters, production teams, visitors, vendors, and colleagues.
• Communicate technical concerns, equipment failures, safety issues, and production limitations promptly to the Theatre Manager.
• Protect and properly maintain NCCM equipment, tools, technical spaces, and other museum property.
• Remain flexible during live events and respond calmly and effectively to changing production needs.
• Follow NCCM safety, emergency, visitor, and facility procedures.
• Submit any time off in a timely manner.

Core Competencies

• Technical Knowledge: Working knowledge of theatrical lighting, audio, audiovisual, and production systems.
• Problem Solving: Able to troubleshoot technical issues efficiently and identify practical solutions during rehearsals and live events.
• Safety & Attention to Detail: Consistently follows safe operating practices and pays close attention to equipment, setups, and production requirements.
• Communication: Able to explain technical needs and limitations clearly to both technical and non-technical colleagues and users.
• Reliability: Dependable, prepared, and able to support scheduled performances and events.
• Collaboration: Works effectively with the Theatre Manager, NCCM staff, performers, renters, vendors, and visiting production personnel.

Qualifications

• Experience in technical theatre, live event production, performing arts venues, audiovisual production, or a related field.
• Working knowledge of theatrical lighting and sound systems; experience with projection, stage systems, or other production technology preferred.
• Experience supporting rehearsals, performances, events, or venue rentals in a live production environment.
• Ability to troubleshoot technical equipment and recognize when specialized repair or outside technical support is required.
• Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work evenings and weekends based on the performance and event schedule.
• Relevant technical training, certifications, or hands-on experience are valued; specific credential requirements may be established based on the theatre’s equipment and operational needs.

Compensation: The anticipated salary range for this position is $50,000–$58,000 annually, based on qualifications and relevant experience. Full-time employees are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as access to Dependent Care Assistance (DCA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA). Benefits are subject to plan eligibility requirements. Full-time employees are eligible for a comprehensive paid time off package, including accrued vacation leave beginning at 10 days annually and increasing with years of service, accrued sick leave, nine paid holidays, and four additional floating holidays per year.